Sanding convex surfaces is obviously a difficult task. A single tool is not sufficient to sand a convex surface. Hence, for flawless sanding, you need specific tools.
So, Throughout this article, we will provide you with some sanding tips for convex surfaces. If you’re looking for that, stick with us.
What is a sanding convex surface?
A curved or expanding outward surface is known as a convex surface. You have undoubtedly sanded such a surface number of times.
But it can be difficult to sand convex surfaces if you don’t know how to do it. With the correct tool, it’s not difficult at all.
There are many sanding tools like an orbital sander, belt sander, and others. Normal u-shaped surfaces can be sanded by a few of them.
But all curved surfaces can not be sanded by them. For instance, sanding curved wood, you need some special tools.
You can add those specific tools with your orbital sander and belt sander.
How to sand convex surfaces:
There are some sanding techniques for convex curves. Three of these processes are the most advantageous. They are the following:
- Using hand sander
- Using angle grinders
- Sanding by a Random Orbital sander with polystyrene
Using hand sander
Hand sanding is a lost art that was formerly common among woodworkers. However, you can use a hand sander to sand the convex surface.
To sand little chunks or sections of wood that require extra attention, you’ll be able to sand with more precision as a result of it. With a hand sander, you can control the surface. And can do your work easily.
In this case, you need some sanding blocks or folding pieces of sandpaper. Both are easily found in your local hardware store. Depending on the curvature of the surface, you can adjust your blocks and sandpaper. Blocks that have been customized can perform unique tasks.
Rubber blocks are now widely used for hand sanding. You can sand your convex surface with rubber blocks. The 3M rubber sanding block is lightweight and simple to grasp, allowing for easier sanding.
Nowadays Diablo’s sanding block proved to be an excellent tool for sanding curved surfaces as well.
When sanding small components and carved wooden parts, the best results will be obtained. However, there is a flaw with this approach. It takes a lot of time.
Using Angle Grinder
To sand convex surfaces, you can use an angle grinder. When I talk about the angle grinder, you may wonder how it can sand. Because you already know that an angle grinder removes stuff.
Sanding is actually a controlled method of material removal. So, you can use angle grinders for shaping and smoothing the convex surface.
Well, To use the angle grinder as a sander, you can apply two methods. One of the effective methods is using flap discs.
Flap discs have many pieces of sandpaper connected at a slight angle. The flaps can quickly sand huge areas in a short amount of time when used on an angle grinder. They are well-suited for convex surfaces as they can quickly smooth away the surface area.
The second method is attaching an orbital sander with it. With the right accessory, you can turn your angle grinder into an orbital sander. This is an add-on that extends the working distance of the device, allowing you to create internal curves and profiles.
In a short period of time, you can remove a significant amount of material. However, you must exercise caution because this is a powerful weapon.
Sanding by a random orbital sander with polystyrene
With a little modification, you can use a random orbital sander for sanding the convex surfaces. This is the most effective method for safely sanding convex surfaces in a short amount of time. A sanding paper is usually attached to a random orbital sander to sand the wood.
However, in this situation, you’ll need to fill the center with Polystyrene foam. The sandpaper will stay stuck if an adhesive is sprayed on both sides of the polystyrene.
Then, as usual, use the orbital sander to modify the curves, and the foam will do the rest. This is how you’ll be able to sand outwardly curved irregular surfaces.
Final verdict
So you understand that you can’t sand the convex surface with just a sander. Sanding convex surfaces necessitates the use of special tools that attach to the sander.
Now, You know about those particular tools after reading this post. The three techniques described above are available for you to pick from. So, follow our recommendations and sand your convex surface to a smooth finish.
Best of luck!