The Difference Between Traditional and Planetary Floor Grinders

When it comes to concrete grinders, there are two main types needed to use for concrete flooring. Knowing the difference between traditional rotary floor grinders and planetary floor grinders will help in choosing the right equipment for the job. They are used to smooth, level, prep, polish, or remove thick layers on concrete flooring. The easiest way to know the difference between the traditional rotary and planetary grinders is how the discs are situated at the base of the grinder.

Traditional rotary grinders have several different configurations of discs along the base. The grinders either have one large single disc that rotates along the base. Or many smaller disc along the base that counter-rotate. The smaller discs on the base can be either on the same plane or overlapping. If the rotary grinder has multiple small discs, it will not have a large disc. But all the discs configurations on the rotary grinder are easily identified.

Now these grinders are difficult to maneuver due to the heavy weight and require more training before use. They are made to be heavy, so they have the ability to reach fast rotational speeds. Since the rotary grinders can reach faster rotational speeds than the planetary grinders, they can complete the concrete job at a more rapid rate. Also, there is no need to belts or pulleys when using this grinder. Rotary grinders are better to use for heavy duty concrete projects. They are also able to remove layers of paint or thick mastic.

Now planetary grinders have one large central disc on the base of the grinder. But the difference is this grinder has three small discs attached to the large disc. And the three small discs rotate at a different rate of speed than the larger disc. Since the smaller discs are on top of the large disc, the large disc does not come in contact with the floor.

These grinders are designed to move in a straight line across the concrete. Planetary grinders give more flexibility and easier for operators to use on concrete flooring because they are lighter than the rotary grinder. They are better to use for lighter jobs. Planetary grinders are better to use smoothing and prepping for the less trained operator. Also, this grinder can be used to polish concrete with a high skilled operator.

Since concrete flooring is an economical flooring, it has become increasingly popular among warehouse, commercial, retail, schools, facilities, residential and more. Grinders are an essential equipment to complete projects from either heavy duty to light jobs. But now you know the best machine for the job you need to finish. Check out the planetary grinders and rotary grinders at Xtreme Polishing Systems.