September_2021 - 35

* VACUUM/DUSTLESS
SANDING SYSTEMS
* SANDERS
* COMPRESSED AIR
be dropped from overhead into the work
stalls/stations when used. There is usually
a central location for the vacuum and
collection apparatus where all the dust
throughout the shop is collected. Some
of the typical sanders used by technicians
in this type of system would be available
to accept a conversion to allow the central
vacuum system to be coupled to the
sander. In a simpler form, it would convert
a standard sander into that of a vacuum
sander. Those systems that consist of a
network of hookups and a central collection
system work well but do limit the
portability as the locations are dedicated
in the initial design and implementation.
These systems are still available and work
well especially in the new construction of
a building or as a retrofit into an existing
shop. These systems are typically referred
to as a central vacuum system.
RECENT ADVANCEMENTS
The most recent advancements have been
those that offer portability. The whole system
is generally kept in a portable unit that
can be used by the technician anywhere
there is a compressed air supply as well as
electric available. Mirka offers such a system
- its dustless sanding station (Figure
1). The station can roll around the shop
and hold all of the necessary purpose built
sanders and consumables, such as sandpaper.
These units also house the dust
collection system within the unit. One
adaptation a technician may encounter is
using the supplied sanders within these
systems. Historically, technicians will be
accustomed to using their personal sanders
and may find a slight learning curve with
these machines. I can personally attest
that that curve is quite small and brief.
I've heard the same sentiments echoed by
many fellow technicians that the transition
was rather smooth. As with any new
process, adjustments are expected but usually
quickly mastered with these systems.
One of the benefits with using a vacuum
sanding system is that of longer abrasive
life. It will be true that the sandpaper
used for these systems commonly costs
a bit more, but the increased life should
offset any difference. As always, the life
of abrasives can be lengthened when used
properly. It is always advisable to consult
with the product manufacturer for directions
as well as safety concerns.
Another recent advancement in technology
is that offered by Pro Spot. They
offer three versions of a dust-free system
using only shop supplied compressed air
p Figure 1 - Mirka's dustless sanding station.
to the systems. No electricity is required
for their systems. Dust is collected into disposable
bags. The fact that they contain no
electric motors or parts make them safe
for use in paint booths and prep stations.
BENEFITS OF DUSTLESS
One of the obvious benefits of using a
dustless sanding system is cleanliness.
Less dust in the shop environment helps
keep the shop and, more importantly, the
vehicle cleaner throughout the process.
Figure 2 shows the minor amount of dust
found after sanding a large repaired area.
Those obvious benefits are all valid reasons
to invest in such a system; howwww.VehicleServicePros.com
SEPTEMBER 2021 PROFESSIONAL TOOL & EQUIPMENT NEWS 35
http://www.VehicleServicePros.com
September_2021

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