Removing PSA Disks - Help ???

[CalgaryPT]

I've got a Kalmazoo 20" disc sander that I love—except when I need to swap out sanding disks. I've tried putty knives, heat guns, Goof Off, acetone, xylene, 3M Scotch Brites, but I am still looking at 3 hrs to get a clean surface.

What am I doing wrong? My old Crappy Tire 12 inch model wasn't so tough. So I think it must be the disks. I did cheap out and get the brown ones instead of the blue ones, but even at this price it was $200+ for 10. I think the Gods are conspiring against me.

Shoot me. Shoot me now.

 

[Dabbler]

A slow-cooker method I used ages ago - and the new adhesives might be very different. I never had to change my disks "right now" so I used to soak them in cheap oil (I started with peanut butter oil, but graduated to used motor oil) In about 24 hours the adhesive softened to the point that the paper came off quite easily...

I changed over to a belt sander after about 6 changes, and haven't used the technique in 20 years (!!)

 

[CalgaryPT]

Really???

 

[PeterT]

I've always been meaning to try the good stuff, but its kind of spendy. I'm not sure what remover they would recommend but it has to be a very common application. Some of the autobody supply shops carry other brands, but cant speak to performance or price. Increasingly they use faster peel & replace solutions, either adhesive or Velcro type systems.
https://www.gessweincanada.com/product-p/820-0670.htm

My disc is only 8" (light duty) so I get away with the sticky backed discs. You probably want to be more selective because bigger loads & maybe temp too. Some of the common spray adhesives are not really meant to withstand much temperature. Usually acetone is a my go-to solvent but sometimes you have to experiment. Some things just don't break down as rapidly or cleanly, then you try lighter fluid or the citrus remover & it works. Lacquer thinner will break down many stubborn glues, resins, even catalyzed paint most other solvents wont touch. If it didn't stink so bad I would use it often.

 

[CalgaryPT]

Humm. I wonder if I can get a hook and loop system for it? Time for some research.

I agree with you about acetone. My shop smells like a nail salon for days afterwards.

 

[Janger]

I think oil makes sense. It can be really helpful removing sticky residue from price stickers and other gunk.

 

[CalgaryPT]

Hummm. Keep hoping for a simple, non messy answer John.

Minions. I require to Minions remove my PSA disks! Maybe I can get a Canada Council grant or something.

 

[Janger]

Minions! yes those... what about a heat gun?

 

[CalgaryPT]

Yes, I have one. A heat gun that is.

Not a Minion.

 

[Jwest7788]

I know some adhesives can be removed way easier with scraping type methods if you leave the glued surface in a deep freezer for awhile, or outside if it's cold (see: really cold) out.

Might be worth a try!

 

[CalgaryPT]

Thanks Josh.