Shopping for a disc grinder/sanders

[projectPONY]

Does anyone here use something like this for any kind of fab/metal work?

http://www.dfwmustangs.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2141&d=1337081602

I know there is special disc grinder specifically for metal work but those suckers are in the $1k range. I basically just need one for the home shop for cleaning up edges of patch panels, beveling(sp) square and round tube for welding, and things like that. Most of the ones I've seen are titled "sanders" and I'm thinking all it would take is a disc and belt change to make it a grinder. I've looked at the expensive, dedicated grinders and they have an average rpm speed of 1750, and this one pictured clocks in at 1720rpm.

Anyway, your thoughts please.

 

[projectPONY]

Here's a 12" model by Burr King so you guys get an idea of what a dedicated grinder is priced at.

http://www.burrking.com/catalog/p-100014/model-12-12-disc-grinder

If you notice the HP rating and working RPM. I've seen considerably less expensive ones with about the same HP and RPM numbers but they are labeled as sanders. Some of them are actually labeled to be for woodwork. I just don't see what the difference would be aside from maybe a different grinding disc.

Help.

 

[BWS]

Got a big'n here that gets used once in awhile.I like belt sander/grinders better.But its a personal choice....some prefer discs?

Wood vs metal is all about the speed.....wood is slower belt/disc speed.

If looking for "deals"....got to be patient.I've seen some nice azz big discs going for <500.These are big industrial,old US arn.Do some study'n on their history.....have cash ready,and may have to travel a bit.Good luck....always fun looking for equipment.BW

 

[projectPONY]

Thanks for the response, but I think you missed the question. I was basically wanting to know if anyone thought the disc/belt sanders could handle the tasks normally applied to one of the larger disc grinders considering that some of the cheaper disc/belt sanders turn the same rpm. Personally, I see a lot more use potential out of a disc/belt sander than just a disc unit.

 

[BD1]

I have a older POWERMATIC model 30 disc sander with 12'' disc and 6''x48'' belt. I only use it for steel from light gauge to 3/8 plate. I use the 80 grit and it is awesome. Great investment. There are postings about these on GJ. I remember Jack Olsen had one about five months ago or so.
Here's a picture of mine

 

[BD1]

Here , I did a quick search and found these.
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=140554&highlight=disc+sanders

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=120507&highlight=disc+sanders

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=66506&highlight=disc+sanders

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=91469&highlight=disc+sanders

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=101438&highlight=disc+sanders

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=101024&highlight=disc+sanders

 

[projectPONY]

I have a older POWERMATIC model 30 disc sander with 12'' disc and 6''x48'' belt. I only use it for steel from light gauge to 3/8 plate. I use the 80 grit and it is awesome. Great investment. There are postings about these on GJ. I remember Jack Olsen had one about five months ago or so.
Here's a picture of mine

I see yours is one of the expensive ones. Let me ask you this. Do you think one of the HF specials can handle the tasks you throw at yours?

Any chance I can get a pic of data plate of yours?

 

[BD1]

Here's the manual I had bookmarked. I'll see what's on the plate. Let me know if this helps.
http://content.powermatic.com/manuals/1791292K_man.pdf

 

[projectPONY]

Yes, that helps. Thanks.

 

[A_Pmech]

I've been planning to build one with a spare 5HP motor I've had sitting around for a while. This thread just reminded me of that.

 

[BD1]

I see yours is one of the expensive ones. Let me ask you this. Do you think one of the HF specials can handle the tasks you throw at yours?

yes , the HF will do the same thing, however it may take a little longer. Its pretty hard to stop it. I got it cheap and currently they are anywhere from $300.00 up used and about $1300.00 new. Did some work for a friend who's
dad had it in his garage . Dad was too old to play with toys safely and my buddy said , take it , it's in the way. I was looking for one for years and wanted a REAL ONE . Check Craigs list. My bro just got a old Delta disc 12'' for $100.00
off Craigs list. Here's the post that Jack Olsen did related to the HF.

http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=140554&highlight=disc+sanders

 

[ilovevocs]

I have a cheap import unit that i use for my fab work at home. I would say it works. I get frustrated with it as i have used dedicated belt / disc grinders in the past from quality manufacutres and it is not substitute. I am not directly answering your question but the point i am trying to make is this; in my experince the import was worth the money, i have yet to find cost effective substitute for it in my garage. I do not regret the purchase, however, when funds come available i will upgrade.

If you are buying from harbor freight be sure to use a 20% off coupon. I dont believe their are any valid 20% off coupons available right now, but that changes quickly.

I use http://slickdeals.net/f/1276399-Harbor-Freight-Coupon-Thread