Disc Sanders

About Disc Sanders

Disc sanders are versatile power tools that use rotating circular abrasive discs to smooth, shape and finish wood, metal, plastics and painted surfaces. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range from leading manufacturers including Festool, Bosch Professional, Makita and DeWalt, with options to suit both professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts. The category encompasses random orbital sanders that deliver swirl-free finishes ideal for fine woodworking, standard orbital sanders for general purpose work, and compact spot repair sanders for detailed applications.

Available in corded 240v models for consistent workshop power or cordless 12v/18v variants for site mobility, disc sanders are classified by their disc diameter—typically 125mm and 150mm for general use, with smaller 32mm-77mm models for confined spaces. Modern features include brushless motors for extended runtime, variable speed control, hook and loop (Velcro-style) disc changing systems, and integrated dust extraction to maintain healthier working environments whilst complying with COSHH regulations.

Applications

Disc sanders are essential tools across numerous trades and industries:

• Carpenters and Joiners: Smoothing timber, preparing surfaces for finishing, and achieving flush joints on furniture and cabinetry
• Decorators and Painters: Surface preparation, keying paintwork, and smoothing filler before redecorating
• Kitchen and Bathroom Fitters: Site adjustments, finishing worktops, and preparing installation surfaces
• Restoration Specialists: Removing old finishes and sympathetic restoration of period features
• Metal Fabricators: Removing rust, smoothing welds, and preparing surfaces for coating (without dust extraction)
• Automotive Body Shops: Panel preparation and bodywork finishing
• Floor Layers: Preparing existing floors and finishing newly laid timber
• DIY Enthusiasts: Furniture restoration, garden projects, and general home improvement tasks

Choosing The Right Disc Sanders

Power Source

Corded 240v models provide consistent power for extended workshop sessions, whilst cordless 12v or 18v units offer excellent site mobility where mains power isn't accessible. Modern lithium-ion batteries deliver impressive runtime, though professionals should consider spare batteries for all-day use.

Disc Diameter and Sanding Action

125mm disc sanders offer the best balance of manoeuvrability and coverage for general purpose work, whilst 150mm models remove material faster on larger projects. Random orbital sanders are preferred for woodworking and fine finishing, delivering swirl-free results, whereas standard orbital sanders suit heavier material removal.

Essential Features

Variable speed control allows matching sanding speed to different materials—slower for delicate finishes, faster for material removal. Integrated dust extraction is mandatory for professional use under HSE regulations and highly recommended for DIY work. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks models from professional-grade Festool and Bosch Professional for daily commercial use, through to excellent-value Einhell and Black and Decker options for home projects.

Safety Information

• Respiratory Protection: Always wear FFP2-rated dust masks when sanding, particularly with MDF and treated timber, complying with COSHH regulations
• Eye and Ear Protection: Safety glasses and hearing protection are essential during extended use
• Hand-Arm Vibration: Take regular breaks to prevent HAVS and comply with Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005
• Dust Extraction: Connect to suitable extraction equipment—never use extraction when sanding metal due to spark and fire risks
• Electrical Safety: Inspect cables regularly and use 110v transformers on construction sites where required

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between orbital and random orbital sanders?

Standard orbital sanders use square sandpaper and move in simple circular orbits, which can leave swirl marks. Random orbital sanders use round discs with combined rotational and eccentric off-centre movement, producing virtually invisible scratch patterns preferred for fine woodworking and finishing applications.

Do I need dust extraction for disc sanders?

Absolutely. Wood dust, particularly from hardwoods and MDF, is classified as hazardous under COSHH regulations and can cause serious respiratory problems. Professional users are legally required to control dust exposure, and even DIY users should prioritise health by connecting to workshop vacuums for effective through-pad extraction.

Which disc size should I choose?

125mm disc sanders are the most versatile choice for general work—lighter, more manoeuvrable, and suitable for extended use. Choose 150mm models if you regularly tackle larger surface areas requiring faster material removal, though they're heavier and more demanding to control.