Wood brushing: methods, equipment used, characteristics of the finished result

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The term wood brushing, unknown until recently, is becoming increasingly popular today. A variety of people are interested in this method of processing wooden surfaces, from specialists in the production of luxury furniture to summer residents who decide to decorate certain wooden products in the surroundings of a country house.

So, what is brushing and what are the features of its implementation? In addition, what equipment is used for such processing of wooden surfaces and what are the characteristics of the finished result?

Microrelief of “aged” wood after coating with stain

Purpose of machines and aging technology

Wood tends to acquire various decorative texture characteristics, which depend on the processing method.
Aging technology involves mechanical impact on the material followed by finishing operations. When using a manual method or a brushing machine, aging a wood surface will not have any significant differences, but the use of specialized equipment will greatly increase the speed of the process and the quality of the result. Furniture parts or elements of wooden trim with imitation of antiquity greatly increase the cost of products due to the enduring fashion for vintage style in the interior. The appearance of “seasoned” wood gives items a resemblance to expensive antiques. In order to achieve the desired effect and obtain a natural appearance of the surface, a machine for artificial aging of wood is used, which makes it possible to quickly obtain results and create colorful blanks for artistic decoration:

• furniture, doors and window frames;
• floor coverings;
• interior decoration;
• interior items.

Conventionally, the brushing technique is divided into the stages of rough sampling, grinding and polishing, which are performed using a machine for aging wood. Aging technology involves the formation of a certain relief of the wood surface by removing softer fibers. Depending on the degree of processing, the wood becomes rough or acquires deep irregularities that imitate the texture of old material.

Which one is better to choose? Main criteria

To choose the most suitable option for a belt sander, you need to determine the types and volumes of work for which it is needed. It is important to understand what properties and features it should have. After this is done, before purchasing, you can look through reviews, study reviews, and information in online stores about the models you are interested in.

The main selection criteria are:

• Engine power/device performance. These indicators directly depend on each other. That is, the greater the power, the higher the level of work intensity.
• The dimensions of the belt and the speed at which it rotates. Its size and parameters determine how much area will be processed, how quickly and efficiently.
• The weight of the device itself. It can weigh from 2.5 to 7 kg. The lighter the device, the more maneuverable it is, but processing will take many times more effort than when using heavier specimens.
• Additional functions, capabilities of the tool: the presence of a bag for collecting litter in the kit, selection of speed mode, smooth activation, fixation on the working plane, maintaining the set speed.

In addition to these parameters, there are others, but their significance is not so great. In any case, the choice will always be up to the buyer. If you approach this process with all seriousness, then you have the opportunity to purchase a grinder that will serve uninterruptedly for many years.

Processing principle and characteristics

The wood aging machine allows you to adjust the level of rigidity when processing the surface, aging parts made of solid wood or glued products. The brushing process is carried out taking into account the natural structure of the material and is applied to elements made of wood with varying degrees of hardness. Wood processing occurs in stages:

1. Chernovaya. Performed with steel brushes to remove soft fibers.
2. Finishing. Involves intermediate or final polishing of the product.

Roughing tools are usually plated in brass, and grinding wheels are made of silicon carbide and have a polymer abrasive coating with varying degrees of grit. The workpiece is fed by a built-in conveyor with pressure rollers equipped with devices to prevent shearing or jamming of the material. The choice of brushing tool depends on the pattern that is expected to be obtained as a result of processing.

The best professional series of belt sanders

The cars have an increased service life. The number of built-in options has been expanded to improve productivity, accuracy and duration of operations. It became possible to perform rough and fine grinding and polishing work.

The tool is equipped with wider abrasive belts. The body is made in an ergonomic shape. Some models process the surface closely adjacent to the adjacent lateral plane.

Einhell TC-BS 8038 – for home repairs

A high-quality, easy-to-use, durable sanding tool for household work and more. Equipped with a running size abrasive belt. The ergonomic body and front handle facilitate long-term work without fatigue.

The machine will help polish the scuffed old parquet. Renew the plank floors and tidy up the wooden doors. Suitable for restoration work.

Pros:

• Convenient, powerful, excellent sanding of wooden floors.
• Modern attractive design, comfortable handles.
• Very good price.

Minuses:

• Users do not note any negative aspects.

Stanley STBS720 – with a technological body

A professional series belt sander with a practical, technologically advanced body. Equipped with a protective bumper against damage to the side surfaces.

The competent arrangement of units and components, the small diameter of the initial roller make it possible to process adjacent surfaces almost close to each other. An additional factor is the ability to fix the front handle in three positions.

Pros:

• Quite powerful, reliable electric motor.
• Excellent layout, especially the front unit.
• Fits well in the hands, nice design.

Minuses:

• Delivery without case.
• No speed adjustment.

Black Decker KA 88 – work over large areas

Tool for processing large areas. The layout of the front axle and a small support roller allow the machine to be used as an electric file when working in hard-to-reach places. Equipped with a cyclone filter to collect dust.

There is a mechanism for quick tape replacement. The latter is automatically fixed during operation. The body and handles are made in a comfortable ergonomic design.

Pros:

• Functionality, performance, sanding large areas.
• Convenient belt change, well-thought-out ergonomics.
• Convenient to get into tight places.

Minuses:

• The cyclone filter is not effective and is inconveniently located.
• Closer to a household series than a professional one.

Ryobi EBS 800V – with adjustable handle

Professional series grinding machine. Equipped with a mechanism for changing cutting speed. The duration of engine operation is supported by an effective ventilation system that protects the power unit from overheating.

The tool is perfectly balanced, ensuring uniform clamping force over the entire contact area of ​​the belt with the surface being processed. The latter fact contributes to high precision, low vibration and noise.

Pros:

• Multifunctional unit, convenient, powerful.
• Comfortable body and adjustable handle.
• Quick belt change, complete set.

Minuses:

• The case is included, just the name, and not a convenient container for storage and carrying.
• They do not add grease to the bearings.

Makita 9404 – for wide tape

Powerful professional tool with wide sanding belt. Designed for productive work when processing flat surfaces with a large area. Equipped with a long cable that does not hinder the carpenter’s movements.

The ability to select cutting speed allows you to work with a variety of materials - wood, metal, plastic and composite. The model is equipped with a comfortable wide front handle that provides a confident grip and adjustable clamping force.

Pros:

• Performance, speed, power.
• Works great on wood, aluminum, brass.
• Reliability, thick and long power cord.

Minuses:

• For vertical work – a lot of weight. But horizontally – that’s it.
• Expensive replacement equipment - tape.

Metabo BAE 75 – possibility of permanent installation

Grinding machine for mobile and stationary work. It comes with a stand that allows you to turn a manual machine into a small abrasive machine. In a portable version, it is used for processing any flat surfaces.

In horizontal mode - for turning small parts, sharpening knives, axes or objects with a flat blade. Speed ​​adjustment is provided. There is a built-in mechanism for maintaining motor constant when the load changes.

Pros:

• Application in mobile and stationary versions.
• Ergonomics, build quality, reliability.
• Adjusting speed, maintaining engine characteristics, equipment.

Minuses:

• No case.
• Perhaps weight and price.

Design features of wood brushing machines

Models of units for artificial aging of wood are produced for working with workpieces of different sizes and are used both for finishing small furniture parts and for processing joinery products with large dimensions. Wood brushing machines use a single principle when processing surfaces, but have different options for changing settings, which can vary from coarse to fine levels of influence.

In budget modifications, one spindle is installed, on which groups of tools are alternately attached for roughing and finishing. More complex models are equipped with several working heads driven by separate motors. The spindles are fixed stationary or have the ability to move along the working axes, and rotate at a constant or adjustable speed. An electronic system that monitors performance and prevents engine overload is responsible for changing the parameters.

Important characteristics that determine the choice of a wood brushing machine are:

• maximum size of the workpiece;
• workpiece feed speed;
• material of manufacture and brush diameter.

Some models process metal surfaces, which greatly expands production capabilities and allows you to increase the range of manufactured goods. The equipment is characterized by a high production of wood dust and has a special ventilation hole for connection to the aspiration system or exhaust hoods for effective removal of sawdust during the processing process.

The best household series of belt sanders

The tool is characterized by a shorter motor life, electric motor power, continuous operating time without stopping, and the absence of additional options that expand the capabilities of the grinding machine.

The household series is intended for rougher work - stripping, removing old coatings, pre-treatment. They are equipped with a narrow belt and have lower productivity.

Caliber LShM-750 – at an affordable price

An affordable belt sander for a wide range of buyers. Able to work on the surface of wood, metal, plastic and composite. Provision is made for quick replacement of the abrasive belt without the use of additional equipment.

The cleanliness of the work area is ensured by a connected industrial vacuum cleaner. Long-term work without fatigue is possible by fixing the start button coupled with a comfortable handle.

Pros:

• Powerful electric motor and frame.
• Possibility of adjusting the abrasive belt during operation.
• Rich equipment, quick belt change.

Minuses:

• It is impossible to find an adapter for a square outlet pipe for a vacuum cleaner.
• The front handle is a bit small, only allowing three fingers to fit.

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Kolner KВS 533x76 V – for roughing

Household tool with the ability to select a processing mode. The machine is equipped with an electronic mechanism for adjusting the cutting speed. Connection to an industrial vacuum cleaner or use of a bag to concentrate sanded dust is provided.

The functionality and power of the engine allow for rough processing of wood of various species, metals and composite materials.

Pros:

• Powerful engine, rough grinding.
• Easy to use.
• Good on flat surfaces.

Minuses:

• Not the dust collector, but the name. Dust everywhere except the bag.
• The belt adjustment mechanism leaves much to be desired.

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BORT BBS-801N - for the home craftsman

Moderately powerful belt sander for wood, metal, plastic and other materials. It does an excellent job of cleaning old coatings and removing the surface layer of parquet varnish.

Removes dried wood to an intact base. Allows you to create a smooth, burr-free surface on semi-finished furniture. A choice of cutting mode is provided.

Pros:

• Electronic speed control.
• Sanding around adjacent corner surfaces.
• A well-thought-out unit that removes layers in one or two steps.

Minuses:

• Bearing lubrication needs to be checked.
• Dust removal towards the worker.

PATRIOT BS 810 – a strong mid-ranger

A well-made sanding unit for working on many types of materials. Particularly good when working with wood and metal. A tight fit to the surface being processed is ensured by the mass of the tool itself, coupled with the force through two handles.

Protection is provided against accidental activation of the start button and turning on of the machine. Equipped with a durable and flexible power cable that can withstand freezing temperatures and numerous bends.

Pros:

• Optimal weight for vertical and horizontal work.
• Hassle-free mechanism for replacing carbon brushes.
• Adjustment of processing speed.

Minuses:

• Sometimes the cord is not long enough.
• A case for carrying the machine and equipment would be nice.

Sturm BS8511U - the most powerful of its analogues

A very powerful model of a belt grinder in the household series. Comfortable handles, a metal frame, clamps, coupled with the power of an electric motor and a choice of processing modes, allow you to sand large surfaces of wooden floors, plywood, and steel sheets.

It is possible to smoothly adjust the tension force of the abrasive belt. Dust is removed into a special bag or a connected vacuum cleaner.

Pros:

• Very powerful sander. Processing difficult areas.
• Selecting the cutting mode by adjusting the speed of revolutions.
• The best indicator of cost is opportunity.

Minuses:

• Quite noisy.
• In my opinion, the frame is an extra bells and whistles.

Bosch PBS 75 AE - good for commercial purposes

Belt sanding machine, close in capabilities to the professional series. Electronic speed control is provided. Built-in shockless soft start mechanism.

A reliable and moderately powerful engine ensures performance. Changing the tape is done by simply pressing a special lever. The abrasive equipment is automatically centered during operation. Ergonomic housing for operator comfort.

Pros:

• A good quality, well-built grinding tool.
• Smooth start, speed control.
• Productivity, large grinding area.

Minuses:

• Corners cannot be processed.
• A little heavy when working on vertical surfaces for long periods of time.

Criterias of choice

To select the optimal model , you need to clearly define the area of ​​its future application and likely loads. In this case, you can get the best price/quality .

When choosing a grinder, pay attention to the availability of spare carbon brushes, which are among the first to fail

in choosing for your home or summer cottage - most likely, it will be overly powerful and contain unnecessary options. When purchasing, you need to pay attention to the following:

• Power . The higher it is, the faster the work will be completed. The power of grinders ranges from 500 W to 1.2 kW . 500-700 W is sufficient ; professionals should choose more powerful tools. You will have to pay for productivity with greater weight and price of the tool.
• Working belt dimensions . It can have different widths and lengths. The larger these parameters, the greater the performance. Professional models usually have a working surface width of 100 cm .
• Tool weight . The weight of the grinding machine usually does not exceed 7 kg .

When purchasing, you should pay attention to the availability of additional options.

Manufacturers

Choosing a good tool is very difficult, because today the market is literally filled with offers. When buying a car, you can rely on the manufacturer’s reputation, which is a good guarantee of quality and reliability. Based on the opinions of experts and user reviews, the best blades are manufactured by the following companies:

Bort Global Ltd. An international company that specializes in the production of power tools and equipment. Its production facilities are located in China . All products come with a three-year warranty. Bort Global Ltd tools include both professional and household models.

Hammer Werkzeug GmbH . A German manufacturer that, in addition to power tools, produces construction and measuring equipment. The company pays a lot of attention to quality control; all its products are certified according to ISO .

Hyundai . The production of power tools is one of the activities of the South Korean holding. Its products belong to the middle price segment. Hyundai makes its own engines for its tools, which sets it apart from its competitors.

Bosch . This German company is one of the world leaders in the production of power tools, household and construction equipment. Among other things, the manufacturer offers belt sanders for wood and metal. Bosch they definitely do not belong to the budget category.

" Caliber ". A Russian manufacturer that offers consumers simple and affordable products. His instruments have a minimum of options and frills.

Makita Corporation . This is a Japanese company that specializes in the production of construction equipment and tools. Makita products are distinguished by high quality, durability and reliability.

" Interskol ". A Russian company that produces gardening and construction tools. The company offers a wide range of products with very affordable prices. The advantage of Interskol is a significant number of service centers in the regions of the country.

Black+Decker . Manufacturer of power tools and various equipment from the USA , with a wide range and decent quality.

" Assault ". A domestic company whose production facilities are located in China . European and Japanese designers are involved in the development of tools. At the same time, the company tries to take into account the specifics of their use in Russia .

Based on the above criteria and manufacturer ratings, we have prepared a review of the best belt sanders for wood and metal for 2021 . This top includes both professional models and tools for home use.

Varieties

There are several types of grinding machines:

• Angular - thanks to the variety of attachments, it copes with many types of work, grinding and polishing differences, leveling them.
• Straight grinder - differs from other types in the location of the spindle. It is installed in the bevel gearbox, allowing you to process hard-to-reach areas.
• Tape - the working tool is a sandpaper tape.
• Vibrating - has a large flat sole, is inexpensive and available for purchase.
• Eccentric - in other words, orbital. It differs in that it works like a regular vibrating sander, but the sole produces circular movements.
• Planetary - polishing and grinding of stone surfaces.