3M Orbital Air Sander

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Bert31

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What size air compressor would one need to use the 3M Oribital Air Sander? I was able to get ahold of a Harbor Freight 1.8 HP, 26 gallon compressor but my assumption is this compressor would be running constantly and I would be waiting quite often for the tank to refill. Is this correct? It does fine for blowing out interiors, blowing cars dry, etc but I have to think for a using air tools I need a more powerful motor and a larger tank.
 
Are you talking about the 3M Orbital Air Sander available at the AGO store?

3M Random Orbital 6 Inch Air Sander 20325, electric sander, palm disc sander, dual action sander

If so:

According to its listed Specifications:
-Tool Diameter - inches (mm) 6" (150 mm)
-Orbit Diameter - inches (mm) 3/16" (5 mm)
-Max RPM 12,000
-Motor HP (W) .28 (209)
-Airflow Rate - SCFM (LPM): 17 (481)
-Weight - pounds (kg) 1.74 lb. (.79)
-Dimensions, l x w- inches (mm) 6.39 x 3.26 (162.3 x 82.9 mm)
-Pad included Stikit™ Pad
-Warranty 1 year limited

The stated 17 SCFM (Standard Cubic Feet per Minute) should equate to ~17 CFM.

NOTE:
SCFM is a measure of gas/air-flow at a standard temperature (68 deg.F),
a standard pressure of 1 atmosphere (14.7 lbs/sq inch.), and relative humidity of 36%...

JMO...Hardly easily obtained/retained in real-world compressor operations.
-It's easier to use CFM for the amount of air coming out of the compressor.


What would be the "right" size compressor:
1. Most air tools are made to operate more efficiently ~90psi
2. Figure ~ 1 hp for every 4 CFM
3. 220/240v compressors are more cost effective than 110/120v ones.
4. Single-stage vs. Two-stage?
5. Oiled vs. sealed?
6. IMO...You're looking around a 5hp compressor with a
high-gallon receiver/tank (60 gal. would be a nice size)...
delivering at least 17 CFM @90 psi.

I hope I'm not too far off in my estimate.

:)

Bob
 
Bob you are truly incredible with your vast knowledge on answering the OP's question. You really laid everything out for the OP to put into perspective when deciding on an air compressor to run the sander.

Great work Bob.
 
Thanks for the kind words Mike...

Just trying to pass along some 'tips'.
No doubt...I probably left out a few.

:)

Bob
 
Lowe's sells a Kobalt 80 Gallon Compressor that would probably do the job just fine...I forget how much it is, I think like 800 something bucks.
 
I have a 2-stage 60 gallon and can drain it pretty easily using a 6" DA sander. With the anti-vibe pads, 1/2" hose, connectors, fluids and filter, it adds up quick.

Things to add:
1. If the tool requires 5 CFM @ 90, I like to get at least a compressor that puts out 7 CFM to prevent the compressor from running non-stop.
2. 220v. Almost any compressor that puts out over 8 CFM @ 90 is going to be 220v.
3. 2-stage is going to be more reliable in the long run and they put out more air at the higher pressures.
4. Oiled; they're quieter and more reliable.

Tractor Supply has the best prices on Ingersoll compressors. Right now, they have an 80gal 2-stage for less than $1k.


Unless you have a serious need for a 3/16" air sander, I would pick up a Porter Cable 7424XP (if you don't already have one for polishing). I prefer the longer stroke and I don't have to wait for the compressor to recharge. There are only a few times when I need to pull out a 3" sander to correct a tight spot.

I noticed you're in Louisville. If you ever make it up to Evansville, let me know and you can try out some of my air tools to get a feel.
 
PorscheGuy997 said:
​
Unless you have a serious need for a 3/16" air sander, I would pick up a Porter Cable 7424XP (if you don't already have one for polishing). I prefer the longer stroke and I don't have to wait for the compressor to recharge.

I noticed you're in Louisville. If you ever make it up to Evansville, let me know and you can try out some of my air tools to get a feel.
Click to expand...

For polishing I will probably stick with my DA, Flex and or rotary. I was thinking about times when I have heavy swirling I sometime will sand it. Sanding manually is a little time consuming and was wondering what I would need for air sanding.

Thanks for the offer to try out your air tools, I may take you up on it.
 
Bert31 have you considered an electric DA sander, less than a C-Note. FoR detailers I think electric tools make more sense. In body shops air rules.

FUNX725 just an awesome complete answer....wow!
 
rmagnus said:
Bert31 have you considered an electric DA sander, less than a C-Note. FoR detailers I think electric tools make more sense. In body shops air rules.

FUNX725 just an awesome complete answer....wow!
Click to expand...

A DA sander? Such as the PC? How easy is it to sand with a DA?
 
Bert31 said:
A DA sander? Such as the PC? How easy is it to sand with a DA?
Click to expand...

I find that it is actually easier to sand with an electric DA, such as the PC. Pigtails are less common and disks last the same length of time. Not to mention that the longer stroke makes it much faster than air DA's. 3/32, 3/16 and the like don't even compare.
 
PorscheGuy997 said:
I find that it is actually easier to sand with an electric DA, such as the PC. Pigtails are less common and disks last the same length of time. Not to mention that the longer stroke makes it much faster than air DA's. 3/32, 3/16 and the like don't even compare.
Click to expand...

Which backing plate and sand paper are you using?
 
Bert31 said:
Which backing plate and sand paper are you using?
Click to expand...

Sorry for such a late reply...

I use a Meg's S6BP for the 6" disks and an interface pad, depending on the panel's curves. If there are no curves, I'll leave the interface pad off.

For the 3" disks, I really like my Mirka 102GG. The extra height makes it much easier to see your work.
 
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