How to determine RPM'S?

[rvx290]

I recently picked up a used rotary, and at the risk of sounding like an idiot, how do I tell what each number represents for the rpm's its spinning at? The speed dial goes from 1 -5, Are they all different or approximately the same with a top rpm around 3500? Thanks and

[Fly Bye]

Re: How to determine RPM'S?


What brand is it?

[J. A. Michaels]

Re: How to determine RPM'S?

Go to your particular brands website. They may have the info there.

[POPPAJ]

Re: How to determine RPM'S?

Turn the machine on-count the revolutions in 15 seconds-multiply this number by four=revolutions per minute!

[boiler7904]

Re: How to determine RPM'S?

Most power tool manufacturers offer the user manual for each tool online. DeWalt makes it a little harder than most by requiring you to set up an account with their service / parts division to download manuals and parts lists/diagrams. Even though they make it tough to get the info, they typically have the most complete info with manuals updated as revisions are made to the tool (typically listed as "Type B" or something to that effect on the tool nameplate).

[CaliKotse]

Re: How to determine RPM'S?

Max RPM - Min RPM = TR
TR / 4 = X
Max RPM - X = Speed 4
Speed 4 - X = Speed 3 and so on... idk

[Still Learnin]

Re: How to determine RPM'S?

I dont know if this will help but I usually go by sound... obviously dont go to the highest speed which will be around 3000rpm... just check how the paint is reacting and what its doing to the paint.. Watch the polish and make sure it doesnt dry up on you. I own a Makita, but recently acquired a new buffer from a friend which doesnt show the speeds. So I go by sound and feel.. Good luck with your new venture to rotary polishing

[BlackScreaminMachine]

Re: How to determine RPM'S?

I was working with my Makita last night and I know there is a nice sticker on the buffer that shows speed setting and rpm. 3 was just about 1500 rpms or so.

[Kubbie]

Re: How to determine RPM'S?

I'm a noob hobby rotary user. I picked up the Harbor Freight el cheapo.

I looked in the documentation, but couldn't find anywhere what their marks correspond to actual RPM's. Any help as well?

[davepjr71]

Re: How to determine RPM'S?

Kubbie, I contacted HF's service department and got the following info:

MIN- 400rpm
1 - 1440rpm
2 1875rpm
3 2020rpm
4 2075rpm
5 2100rpm
MAX 2550rpm

[BillyJack]

Re: How to determine RPM'S?

Here's an older post with another list of speeds on a HF polisher:

http://meguiarsonline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=38676&highlight=rpm

I have one, which I keep loaded with smaller pads for areas that may be too difficult or delicate to attack with my trusty 2000 RPM Rockwell. Don't rely on the posted speed settings, as these cheaper buffers bog down easily. As Markito mentioned, watch, listen and keep your thumb on the speed dial

Bill