Page 41 - Australaasian Paint & Panel Jan-Feb 2022

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generally a sander is used for a limited amount of time and this can be managed to keep fatigue to a minimum. Fatigue can be further reduced by using high perfor- mance abrasives such as the 3M Cubitron II Clean Sanding Hookit Discs, requiring less pressure from the technician and hav- ing a cut rate that is as much as 30 per cent faster than conventional ceramic premi- um abrasives. Another potential draw- back of larger orbit sanders is the risk of burn through. Double the cut from an abrasive may be desirable, but with more cut can come more burning through on e- coats or blend panels. There is a limit to how much is too much. Consequently, 5mm orbit sanders tend to be a happy me- dium for technicians that are concerned about too much cut and vibration.
EXTRACTION IS KEY
Another key factor in the performance of the sanders is the selection of appro- priate dust extraction. Incorporating the 3M Clean Sanding System Dust Extrac- tor with the 3M Random Orbital sanders will improve the disc life and overall quality of finish during the sanding op- eration. The dust extractor will provide sufficient suction to remove the material being sanded, while allowing smooth movements across the surface. The re- sult being the technician will achieve ideal finishes, but just as critically, the facility will not be clogged with dust, leading to occupational hygiene im- provements for all the team.
It is critical to remember that sanding
will produce microscopic dusts of silica, iron oxide (rust), methylene chloride, along with metallics (potentially lead and chromium) when sanding painted surfac- es. These fine dust particles become air- borne if appropriate dust extraction is not in place and without proper ventilation will linger in the air for considerable time, waiting to be inhaled by anyone.
The 3M Clean Sanding System includes dust extractor, pneumatic sanders, mobile workstation, a wide selection of quality abrasives, and PPE. Even when using dust extractors, it is still highly recommended that a technician wears the appropriately fitting respirator and personal protection.
For more information visit: www.3m.com. au/collisionrepair or call :136 136.