American Sanders American 12 Drum Sanders - Manual (Page 13)

Clarke ® American Sanders - American 12 Floor Sander Operator's Manual Page 13
Sanding Cuts and Sandpaper
Initial Cut
The purpose of the initial cut is to remove old finish and gross imperfections on the floor surface. The sand-
ing equipment should be adjusted to heavy sanding pressure setting and a coarse abrasive should be used.
If the surface is severely damaged by deep scratches, pre-existing dwell marks, uneven planks, etc., it may
be necessary to sand across or diagonally to the grain to restore evenness to the surface. If these conditions
are not present, the initial cut should be done in the direction of the grain.
If glazing, loading, or burning takes place immediately into an initial cut, select a coarser abrasive. If this
should occur during an initial cut, the abrasive has dulled and must be replaced.
Final Cuts
The purpose of a finishing cut is to remove the scratches produced during the initial cut. Use a fine (60 - 80
grit) grain abrasive and a reduced sanding pressure setting.
If the surface remains rough after a finishing cut, it may be necessary to use an even finer grain of abrasive
(80 - 100 grit). Care should be taken in selecting the grit size of the abrasive. A very fine grain will close
the pores on a wood floor making admission of a stain difficult.
If glazing or burning should occur immediately into a finishing cut, reduce the sanding pressure. If it should
occur during a finishing cut, the abrasive has dulled and must be replaced.