Clarke
®
American Sanders American 8 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 sanding 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.
