DISC SANDER
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Proper eye protection must be work when using the disc sander.
EXPLANATION: This protects the eyes from danger created by flying particles.
2. Get permission from the teacher each time before using the disc sander.
EXPLANATION: This creates order and keeps unqualified students from operating power tools.
3. Sand only wood with a flat bottom that is large enough to be
held without getting the hands dangerously close to the abrasive disc.
EXPLANATION: Sanding irregular shaped or small wood can be dangerous. Check with the teacher for special instructions.
4. The distance between the disc and the table should be no more than 1/8 inch.
EXPLANATION: A larger gap might cause the stock to become caught between the disc and the table drawing hands toward the moving abrasive.
5. Inspect the disc for tears or looseness before turning the power on.
EXPLANATION: A torn or loose abrasive disc can fly apart and be thrown off of the machine at a terrific speed.
6. The table and guard should be securely fastened before the power is turned on.
EXPLANATION: Making adjustments while the disc is in motion is dangerous.
7. When operating the disc sander, the operator should hold his work against the disk on the ownward side.
EXPLANATION: The downward motion of the disc will help to hold the wood on the table.
8. To avoid burning the wood, the operator should move the stock side-to-side on the downward side of the machine.
EXPLANATION: Side-to-side motion allows abrasive friction action to cool.
9. While the machine is in motion, you should keep your fingers away from the abrasive material.
EXPLANATION: The abrasive is very hard and it will grind through skin and cause a painful injury
10. You should feed the wood against the abrasive material at a moderate rate of feed and pressure.
EXPLANATION: Excessive pressure could cause an abrasive section to fly off the backing, possibly injuring the operator
11. Turn off the power and stand by until the disc sander has
come to a complete stop or stop with a scrap piece of wood against the
edge of the disc.
EXPLANATION: Other students may not notice the movement of a disc with no operator, and an injury may occur.
12. Abrasives should only be changed with the permission and direction of the teacher.
EXPLANATION: Correct installation of an abrasive is necessary for proper and safe operation of the disc sander.
REFERENCES: Pictures and more information on disc sanders can be obtained from these books:
General Woodworking, by Groneman, pp 195-198.
Exploring Woodworking, by Zimmerman, pp 112.
Cabinetmaking and Millwork, by Feirer, pp 441-450.
Advanced Woodwork and Furniture Making, by Feirer and Hutchings, pp 363-370.
