Thread: Rotex Heat

there is something wrong with it get it checked out . had a problem with one of their rotary sanders from new and after sales service was poor m hope you have better luck regards Bob

I think what you are experiencing is normal based on my own personal experience and that of many users from Festool USA's forum. All of the Rotex sanders run pretty hot, even more so when they are new. After 8-10 hours of use you'll find that it will run a little cooler.

It's a tricky one this ROTEX heat topic. As Brice says, the ROTEX runs hot. But how hot is hot and how does someone know if it running hotter than normal.

It should not be too hot that you can't handle it. With your hand on the top 'palm grip' area above the switches it should be fine, lower down is where the plastic shroud it covering the alloy gearbox and that area (even with the plastic covering) gets toasty. It's the gearbox generating all that heat.

Had a bit of a chat with Festool today about the topic of ROTEX and heat. The ROTEX gearbox is relatively complex and a lot goes on in there, it works pretty hard and generates a lot of energy. As a result it generates a lot of heat.

Some things to note:

1. It can get quite hot to touch, so this is why the gearbox is covered by a plastic shroud. But to the user it will still seem quite hot.
2. It will get hot regardless of the sander being under light or heavy load. Regardless of what task it's being put to, the gearbox is operating going through the same motions and still generating that heat.
3. When operating the ROTEX (like any other tool) don't cover the ventilation ports.
4. Dust extraction helps 'air-condition' the ROTEX.
5. There is nothing to worry about...
6. ...unless you notice something else not right with the sander. Like new noise, poor performance, motor thermal shut-off kicks in. Then talk with your dealer or Festool service.

But, what about the head being uncomfortable - it's a personal thing. I have been using a ROTEX for 10 years, and have probably become quite used to it... I rest my hand on the ROTEX top (above the gearbox) all the time. But if it bothers you, try fitting the side handle.

Hope this helps.

All sounds normal then. I havn't used it much in the past and the heat was unusual to me. Happy to deal with the heat if its considered 'normal' given the performance of the machine.

Cheers to all.