How does an orbital polisher work?
This orbital polisher features a random orbit to reduce the appearance of swirls and cover a bit more surface area. It comes with a 6-inch backing pad and a dual-position handle that screws into the left or right side of the polisher. And at just 5.5 pounds, it won’t wear out the user’s back or arms.
What is the difference between dual action and Random orbital polishers?
Dual-action and random orbital polishers are one and the same. They vary from single-orbit or rotary polishers in that the pad of the buffing path is oval, whereas single-orbit polishers feature tight and consistent orbits. Q. Can a random orbital polisher be used to sand a surface?
Do I need a rotary polisher for clear coat?
You need the cutting power of a rotary polisher to penetrate the clear coat and smooth over rough edges to restore your paint to its original flawless finish.
What is a single orbit wax polisher?
This rotary, single-orbit unit features an adjustable-speed wheel built into the handle and a variable-speed trigger, allowing users to apply a coat of wax without slinging it everywhere first. There is a screw-in handle that attaches to either side of the polisher, as well as a rubber over-molded handle for comfort and vibration reduction.
What to consider when choosing an orbital polisher?
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Orbital Polisher. The best orbital polisher should cut the amount of time it takes to wax and buff a vehicle by a considerable amount. But just because orbital polishers work quickly doesn’t mean you should rush to decide on one.
What is orbital polishing?
Orbital polishers are available in two main varieties: rotary or single orbit, and random orbital (also known as dual-action, or “DA” by the pros). These designations refer to how the buffing pads spin. Rotary or single orbit polishers’ pads spin around a single axis, similar to how a wheel spins on an axle.
What is a WEN polisher?
For light-duty buffing or small jobs, consider this compact orbital polisher that features a palm-grip design, allowing users to control the tool with one hand. The WEN also features a 6-inch pad with a random orbit design, so even budget-minded shoppers can avoid swirl marks.
How fast is an orbital polisher?
Most orbital polishers feature speeds between 2,000 and 4,500 OPM. While higher speeds might seem like they’d get the job done the fastest, they’re not always recommended. For instance, if you’re applying wax with your polisher, 4,500 OPM might sling excess wax onto the windshield or plastic trim.
What is a dual action polisher?
It’s one tight, consistent orbit. These polishers are usually the least expensive option. Dual-action polishers spin like rotary polishers, but they also use a random orbit which creates a looping buffing pattern. Essentially, it’s an elliptical buffing path, covering more surface area than a standard orbit.
Is an orbital polisher heavy duty?
To the uninitiated, it would appear that an orbital polisher isn’t performing any heavy-duty work. But if you consider the speeds at which they spin and the friction they create, power can be a concern—just not in a typical sense.
Can orbital polishers be used as sanders?
They’re also helpful for polishing concrete or wood floors, and they’ll speed up the process considerably over doing the job by hand. Many of the best orbital polishers can also double as sanders, particularly the 5-inch and 6-inch models.
