Polishing machine: design and selection features

Application area

This tool is often used to process a variety of surfaces, which allows you to:

• Eliminate minor scratches or chips, giving the product a new look;
• Make the surface smooth, which will subsequently create the effect of radiance and shine.

The polishing machine is used by all jewelers and craftsmen as it can effectively clean the surface, regardless of defects. Moreover, such a device is sold at an affordable price in all specialized stores.

Polishing process

The most important thing at the beginning of the process is to clean the car of any kind of contamination. The car must be thoroughly washed with a special shampoo. After the car has dried, it must be examined again to identify any remaining dirt, corrosion, and bitumen stains.

The body prepared for polishing must be clean and always dry; even drops of water or residues of any cleaning agents are unacceptable.

Lighting is very important when working. You should not work in the hot sun, sunlight can hide some defects from the car owner’s eyes, and the body can overheat, which will deteriorate the paintwork. It is best to carry out work on a cloudy but not rainy day.

Next, you can begin to directly eliminate coating defects. You can try to remove the deepest scratches with a special pencil. And although the pencil is not able to completely remove the defect, it will make it almost invisible.

It is better to polish each area with a defect separately, since the polish tends to dry quickly. It is applied to the surface of the car body and rubbed with gentle circular movements. Do not put too much force on the sponge, as it may ultimately damage the paintwork even more. In this case, it is imperative to monitor the coating itself so as not to cause harm.

Polishing machine or grinder

In general, these are very similar equipment, however, there are differences between them, and often they are significant. Some materials cannot be processed only with a grinder and experts advise using a more suitable tool. And some even argue that products cannot be processed with this tool. Because the grinder has a high speed of revolutions even at the minimum level. Of course, there are budget versions with low power, but there will be no adjustment, which will also negatively affect the work.

Due to the fact that polishing machines have a low speed, they provide the best efficiency in work. This is the main advantage of such a device.

It is also important to understand that due to the high speed of the grinder, there is a high probability of rapid wear of the attachments, which entails additional costs, and the quality of processing will also suffer. It is also important to understand that a strong decrease in speed can contribute to the complete stop of the rotating disk, since the rated power will become several times less.

In addition, prolonged grinding work with an angle grinder will lead to overheating of the tool. Therefore, a person will not be able to completely clean the surface. He will have to wait until the product cools down and can work again.

Polishing tool and polish

Should I choose a polishing machine or a sponge? Naturally, a polishing sponge and work with its use require sufficient time and effort, since the process is long and labor-intensive, but it is the safest. And polishing the body using a machine requires extreme care, since careless, and even more careless, handling can damage the paintwork even more.

Although the advantages of working with a polishing machine include a fairly high quality of polishing, the price of such equipment is much higher than that of a simple sponge. Therefore, for the most part, this is what car owners choose.

When purchasing a polish, you should pay attention to its composition and focus more on the chosen polishing method. Plus, there are both classic types of polishes and synthetic ones, with resistance to temperature changes, chemical reagents and ultraviolet radiation.

What to look for when choosing

When a person is looking for a polishing machine, the first thing he notices is a huge assortment; today hundreds of models are sold, which differ in price and technical characteristics. You need to pay close attention to the latter, as the parameters will help you decide on the right option. Main selection criteria:

• Circle diameter;
• Speed ​​and type of rotor mechanism.

To better understand each nuance, it is important to analyze these parameters separately.

Circle diameter

For cleaning a large area, the best assistant is a circle with a maximum diameter. For example, there is the well-known Big Foot technology, which allows you to clean a surface equal to 5 standard circles at maximum speed.

After a person makes several approaches, the product must be blown out to prevent rapid wear. After this stage is completed, the paste is reapplied and work continues.

The area of ​​application also depends on the diameter of the circle. For example, using an element with a value of 180 mm, it is best to process the hood, doors and similar products with a large area. For smaller details, the circle is selected individually.

Rotation type

Most of the devices sold in stores differ in the type of rotation. It is important to pay attention to this, since a particular method may provide the user with better or worse performance. There are three types in total:

• Rotary, movement occurs in one direction;
• Planetary;
• Random orbital.

The first option differs in the method of rotation, which occurs in a specific direction (around its own axis). The main advantages of this option are the absence of vibration, as well as the high stripping speed, which distinguishes this device from others. Using this option, it is important to prevent overheating, otherwise there is a high probability of “holograms” appearing, which will ruin the appearance.

In random orbital devices, the circle rotates in several directions. Which makes it a universal tool that can clean even difficult products. Rotation occurs:

• Around the axis, as in the first option;
• In different directions.

Despite this, such a device has a negative side - strong vibration, which creates discomfort during operation. However, some masters claim that you can quickly get used to it. Because otherwise, this is a great tool that can handle any job. At the same time, the chance of overheating for this product is minimal.

On Russian markets there are grinding machines with a planetary mechanism. This model can also rotate in several different directions:

• The movement occurs around the central axis of the eccentric;
• Rotations along its own axis.

Unlike the previous option, chaotic rotation is not allowed here; everything happens according to the rules of rotary products, which eliminates various negative consequences. A device with this method of rotation is capable of performing operations at the same speed as the rotary version, however, the chance of overheating the surface is minimal, so holograms will not form, which has a positive effect on the appearance.

The main disadvantages of this mechanism:

• Strong vibration, which negatively affects the quality of work, especially for beginners. In addition, if a person works with such a device every day, he will quickly notice that the frequency of breaks has increased, because it is difficult to constantly work with such a device.
• Heavy weight. This is another parameter that negatively affects ergonomics. Working with such a tool will require a considerable amount of effort.

Most of the models produced by domestic manufacturers are characterized by high vibration or aggressive effects on the material. Only professionals can handle such units. While inexperienced users are better off looking at simpler options in order to gain enough experience without damaging the surface.

Restoration work

Let us dwell in more detail on the question of how best to carry out restorative polishing with your own hands and at home. In particular, we cannot help but talk about the choice of materials that will be needed during the work and will have a fairly noticeable impact on the final result.

Let’s immediately agree and clarify that working with a car body with your own hands requires significant skills or at least a couple of hours of training on some door from disassembly, which you don’t mind ruining and rendering the paint layer unusable.

Let's talk about why restoration work requires a lot of attention and skills, as well as good preparation and well-chosen materials. The fact is that during restoration work, a very insignificant layer of varnish is removed or sanded off, the thickness of which is measured in microns. Together with this thinnest layer, microscopic irregularities, scratches and dirt that have adhered over time are removed.

As a result of this work, the varnish, or more precisely, the surface of the car’s paintwork, is leveled and begins to reflect the sun’s rays evenly. Due to this, the old elements of the car body begin to play with new colors: a transparent layer of varnish is exposed, which no longer hides the true color located under its thickness.

In order to do the work yourself, you should take care in advance of purchasing the so-called abrasive paste. Usually, a high-quality product is not cheap, but it is enough for more than one cycle of work, and, in principle, next time you will not need to purchase another package soon. But the result is highly likely to meet all expectations and leave no doubt about its high quality.

Currently, the range of such products is off the charts. For cars, you can choose both a domestic product and pastes produced abroad and imported into our country.

In the first case, the price of materials will be low: if you consider that the work is done at home and with your own hands, then the costs will be measured in hundreds of rubles and will be several times less than if you had to use the services of a professional.

However, it is believed that the result will not be of particularly high quality. Strictly speaking, this economical option is best suited for those for whom a perfectly leveled surface is not of great interest and for whom simply the absence of noticeable scratches is enough.

Expensive polishes are often chosen by professionals, although amateurs who work with their own hands and at home also do not ignore them. The use of such pastes guarantees that the result will be of high quality. In addition, when used correctly, relatively little material is used, so one package is enough for several uses.

What else should you know?

In addition to the method of rotation and the diameter of the wheel, there are a couple more criteria that you need to focus on when choosing a grinding machine.

Eccentric movement

Everything is simple here, the greater the stroke of this element, the larger the area the tool can process, so we must not forget about this parameter. For grinding, it is customary to use a device whose pitch value is at least 12 mm; such devices show themselves much better than their predecessors and are used in many automobile workshops.

Rotational speed

Here you need to be careful; it is important to understand that the higher the speed, the faster the working surface heats up. This also contributes to rapid wear of the varnish. This is especially important for inexperienced craftsmen who create cuts to pay attention to.

Working method

At the moment, there are only two best known ways to polish a car: manually and using a power tool.

The first method is the most economical and is more suitable for applying protective polish. To implement it, you will have to stock up on everything you need to avoid problems when starting work. What does the list of such necessary things include?

The first is a special polishing cloth. Such napkins can be purchased at a specialized store: usually there are several pieces in a package at once, so you don’t have to worry that you won’t be able to limit yourself to just one pack.

It is necessary to polish in small areas, applying the product in sufficient quantities successively to small squares. In this case, after application, you need to wait a few minutes until the product dries: this will make it easier to rub it over the surface of the body and achieve the desired effect.

In the case of working with a grinder, you will have to pay more attention to not overdo it: the rotation speed of the wheel is high, and it is not so difficult to ruin the paintwork. This method is somewhat more expensive: you will have to additionally purchase polishing wheels with an abrasive surface. However, the main advantage of this method is speed and efficiency, which cannot always be achieved using the manual method.

Rating of the best budget grinders

STANLEY SS24-RU

Excellent wear-resistant equipment that will give the user quality and reliability at an affordable price. The product is ideal for processing elements and sanding in hard-to-reach places. The engine is powerful and highly resistant to overloads. The case is made of high quality material and does not deteriorate over time. Universal connector. The manufacturer provides a 2-year warranty on the product.

Sold at a price of 2,400 rubles.

STANLEY SS24-RU

Advantages:

• Reliability;
• High-quality assembly;
• High wear resistance;
• Warranty – 2 years;
• Optimal price.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Car waxer 80W 12V

A good Chinese model designed for use in a car. It will easily clean even hard-to-reach areas and give your vehicle a fresh look. The work is carried out from the machine’s on-board network, which is a convenient solution for most users. The device does not take up much space and fits freely in the luggage compartment, while leaving room for more important things.

The body is made of impact-resistant plastic that does not emit toxic fumes. This makes operation safe. The optimal rotation speed allows you to instantly remove even bright scratches. The weight of the product is only 822 grams, so a woman can use the device. In addition, the device has reliable protection against overloads and short circuits, which will allow you to operate the machine for a long period. The product warranty is one year from the date of purchase.

The average price is 2,490 rubles.

Car waxer 80W 12V

Advantages:

• Reliability;
• Not a bad build;
• Doesn't take up much space;
• Does not give off vibrations;
• Easy controls;
• Efficiency.

Flaws:

• The case deteriorates from frequent use.

BISON 140 W

An excellent Russian option that is suitable for use in many automotive services. The product does not make loud noise and provides the user with the best quality for the entire period of operation. The maximum power is 140 W, which is an excellent solution for such equipment. Comfortable handles will allow you to carry out work even faster. Cooling is effective, and there are several protective features that will increase the average duration. The diameter of the circle is 240 mm, the kit includes 2 polishing attachments.

The average price is 2,600 rubles.

BISON 140 W

Advantages:

• Reliability;
• Durability;
• Effective work;
• Optimal diameter;
• Two nozzles included.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

MASTER PPO125-C

A more expensive device that will provide the user with better quality for the entire period. The product is powered from a 220 V network, the maximum power reaches 1200 W. Suitable for processing any surface, not just the hood or doors. For convenience, there is excellent speed control and a button lock, which is useful when carrying out complex types of work. The production of these models is carried out in a Chinese factory, which does not exclude the possibility of defects. The maximum cable length is 2 meters. This is not enough when carrying out household work; in addition, the cord is not very durable, which will create some difficulties when performing polishing operations.

The average price is 3,175 rubles.

MASTER PPO125-C

Advantages:

• Convenience;
• Adjustable speed;
• Button lock;
• Short circuit and overheat protection;
• Efficient cooling.

Flaws:

• Price.

Process nuances

This stage begins by applying abrasive paste to a small area. You can try to coat the polishing circle itself (the lighter one). The machine is set to the minimum mode using a dial located near the handle.

To determine whether a metal surface is sufficiently polished, you need to compare it with other parts. After treatment, it should shine more than after varnishing (evenly and without matte bald spots).

The following two pastes are used using the same technology: first medium-abrasive, then non-abrasive.

Here are some tips on how to properly polish your car:

1. The body can be slightly moistened with water so that the paste does not dry out.
2. Clean the wheel from adhering paste to achieve maximum polishing efficiency.
3. If the surface being treated overheats, it means it’s time to move on to a new area, and then, if necessary, return to the cooled one.
4. If you do not set the speed to low, the applied paste will scatter to the sides. After working at low speeds, you can add a little, but do not exceed 2500 per minute.
5. Before using a non-abrasive paste, the surface is washed and the wheel is changed to another.
6. While using the grinder, you need to watch the cord so that it does not come into contact with the surface of the body, otherwise scratches cannot be avoided. Experts recommend throwing the power cord over your shoulder or enlisting the help of a partner.
7. If the machine is not held perpendicular to the surface, but at an angle, streaks will form.
8. It is unacceptable to touch plastic elements around. They can be irreversibly damaged due to exposure to abrasive paste and hot rotating wheels.
9. It is enough to lightly walk along the ends, but do not cling to the edges of the corners, so as not to damage the circle.

Now you know how to polish a car after painting it yourself. To ensure that the work is completed completely, the car is thoroughly washed. This is where having a toothbrush comes in handy. This extraordinary tool will help remove lumps of paste from crevices and corners. Within a few hours of hard work, the result will be obtained.

After the car is washed, you can begin manual rubbing with finishing paste. It is applied to the surface using a dry, lint-free cloth.

Before polishing a car after painting, many motorists have doubts about the need for this labor-intensive and somewhat costly process. However, it is worth listening to the opinions of experts who recommend polishing.

The procedure for using polish can be repeated. After all, depending on the brand, it can withstand from 4-8 to 8-12 wash visits. Repeated applications of the composition will not require sanding.

The information will be useful for novice painters and car enthusiasts.

Expert: Andrey Volkov.

Top quality high-performance professional devices

FEIN WPO 14-25 E

Reliability and quality are what is at the core of the creation of this tool. The machine can handle tasks of any complexity without any problems, while providing maximum convenience and comfort to each user. There are vibrations, but they are not so categorical that they can be classified as shortcomings. Produced by a popular foreign company that has successfully proven itself on the market for decades. Power consumption – 1200 W, power supply is supplied from the network.

Sold at a price of 44,200 rubles.

FEIN WPO 14-25 E

Advantages:

• Reliability;
• Excellent build;
• Long network cable;
• Spindle fixation;
• Starting current limitation;
• Button lock;
• Small mass.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

MIRKA PS 1437

An excellent option that has a lot of positive aspects, which allows you to operate the device in any convenient place and with all materials. The handle is ergonomic, the vibration level is minimal, which ensures reliable and efficient operation over a long period. The maximum rotation speed is 3700 rpm.

The average price is 48,800 rubles.

MIRKA PS 1437

Advantages:

• Popular manufacturer;
• Reliability;
• Effective polishing;
• Durable housing;
• Good element base;
• Minimum heating.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Flex XFE 15 150 18.0-EC/5.0 P-Set

One of the best devices that will provide a person with all the necessary functionality for long-term work with various elements. Power is supplied via a rechargeable battery, which is included in the kit. The sheet is secured with Velcro. The maximum diameter of the circle is 160 mm. Light weight and compact dimensions have made the equipment in demand in many private and professional workshops.

Sold at a price of 50,600 rubles.

Flex XFE 15 150 18.0-EC/5.0 P-Set

Advantages:

• Two batteries included;
• Convenient case for transportation;
• Better performance;
• High-quality assembly;
• Autonomous work;
• Two year warranty.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Milwaukee M18 FAP180-502X

The latest model in the top segment. The device guarantees the user quality for ten years. Operates using a rechargeable battery. The rotation speed is 2200 rpm, which allows you to use the product effectively. For convenient operation, the manufacturer has equipped the machine with a speed stabilization system. Maximum weight – 2.2 kg.

The average price is 45,600 rubles.

Milwaukee M18 FAP180-502X

Advantages:

• Two batteries;
• It only takes an hour to charge;
• Three-position handle;
• Speed ​​stabilization system;
• Starting current limitation.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

Video

For a detailed process of polishing a car, watch the following video:

Your car is painted, varnished, looks perfect and is ready to go. But for an impeccable result, it’s worth staying a little longer in the workshop so that polishing the car becomes the final stage and allows the freshly applied paintwork to become mirror-like.

Many amateur painters will find this step unnecessary. They say the paint is applied perfectly, smudges have been eliminated, the coating is varnished, protecting the paintwork from damage and other troubles. What else do you need for happiness? Some put their cars up for sale, others drive them themselves.

Rating of reliable mid-class devices

DeWALT DWP849X

A product from a top manufacturer, suitable for working with cars and small parts. The ergonomic handle, equipped with an anti-slip element, guarantees comfort throughout the service life. For greater ergonomics, the button is equipped with protection against accidental pressing.

The body is made of plastic, which is resistant to mechanical stress and temperature. Power – 1250 W. Power comes from the network.

The average price is 11,700 rubles.

DeWALT DWP849X

Advantages:

• 2 additional handles;
• Cable length – 3 meters;
• Light weight;
• Convenient operation;
• Multi-stage protection against various impacts.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Makita SA7000C

A device for home use that will be useful in every household. The power consumption value is 1600 W, while the rpm is 4000. The power comes from a 220 V network. There is overload protection and frequency adjustment.

Sold at a price of 9,900 rubles.

Makita SA7000C

Advantages:

• Excellent build;
• Doesn't overheat;
• Full overload protection;
• Speed ​​stabilization system;
• Frequency adjustment.

Flaws:

• There is no possibility to install a dust collector.

Interskol UPM-180/1300EM

A polishing machine from a Russian manufacturer that will find application in every industry. The length of the network cable is 4 meters, while the quality of the cord is at a high level, which will eliminate accidental chafing, as with some Chinese representatives. Speed ​​– 2200 rpm, which is suitable for polishing operations. Power comes from the network.

The average cost is 5,500 rubles.

Interskol UPM-180/1300EM

Advantages:

• Over a hundred positive reviews;
• Great job;
• Smooth start;
• Short circuit and overheat protection;
• Equipment;
• High quality build.

Flaws:

• Not found.

BISON ZPM-1300E

Brand model designed for polishing and grinding surfaces. The machine is equipped with a motor whose power is 1300 W. The handle is made of rubberized material, which gives the product ergonomics. Additional handle, installed in each position. Power comes from the network.

The average price is 5,600 rubles.

BISON ZPM-1300E

Advantages:

• Value for money;
• Doesn't make loud sounds;
• Comfortable handle;
• Efficiency;
• Slight heating.

Flaws:

• Not detected.