A DA sander, short for Dual Action sander, is a power tool used for sanding surfaces. It employs a random orbital action, where the sanding pad spins in a circular motion while simultaneously moving in an elliptical orbit. This dual action helps prevent swirl marks, resulting in a smoother, more uniform finish compared to single-action orbital sanders or belt sanders. An example use case is preparing automotive body panels for painting.
The benefits of utilizing this type of sander include its ability to remove material efficiently while minimizing the risk of damage to the workpiece. The random orbital motion is less aggressive than other sanding methods, making it suitable for various applications, from fine finishing to removing paint or rust. Its historical context involves its evolution from simpler orbital sanders, designed to address the issue of swirl marks and improve sanding quality across different industries.
