Rotary tool mounting

[Crag the Brewer]

I'm seriously considering getting a pendant rotary tool instead of another new Dremel.
I like the idea of getting a Foredom.
Most are pendant/hanging types, either form ceiling or from a hook mounted to a workbench.
I see that they offer a mounted base type too. that sits on a little swivel stand. Why are they not more popular?

In my mind, the mounted base type allows to move it around easier without the hook/hanger.
Also since I am in the basement, I'm thinking it will be quieter since the sounds wont be vibrating through the floorboards?

What am I missing?

Thanks.

 

[JV Knives]

I think in general , desk top workspace is at a premium so many go suspended over a big base on the work surface. I’m sure both are fine solutions just depends on what you have in the way of space and support.

 

[Bill DeShivs]

Flexible shaft machines are generally bench mounted on poles. Since they are suspended from the poles, no vibration is transmitted.
Get the hanging type, you will have much more freedom of movement with the tool.

 

[Crag the Brewer]

Flexible shaft machines are generally bench mounted on poles. Since they are suspended from the poles, no vibration is transmitted.
Get the hanging type, you will have much more freedom of movement with the tool.

Thanks for the tips....
You recommend upright hook from a bench?
Not from ceiling?


I think my biggest concern is I'm mostly standing. Working, walking in a more dynamic environment. Not sitting at a workstation.
I'm worried of tripping around finding the foot pedal, and it getting covered in grit and mess on the floor.

The foot pedal ones are cheaper, which would be nice.
I'm leaning towards the heavy duty square drive shaft version.

 

[Crag the Brewer]

I think in general , desk top workspace is at a premium so many go suspended over a big base on the work surface. I’m sure both are fine solutions just depends on what you have in the way of space and support.

I don't really have much workbench space there, where I plan on using it.
Mostly my grinder work surface, and drill press top. If I used the benched version I'd have to mount a base or shelf somewhere.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

From the ceiling or on a pole with a hook ... either one works. Think of a flexshaft motor as an IV bottle. Hang it anyway that elevates it the correct amount. Bench poles are usually adjustable, so the motor is at the right height for the shaft length to be comfortably used. I had an 8-foot-long workbench and put a long curtain rod over it. The flexshaft slid to where I was working, and out of te way when I didn't need it.
In most cases, the bench and seat are a fixed spot and a piece of 1/2" pipe bolted to the corner of the bench and 1/4" rod hook dropped in the end of the pipe work just fine.

 

[Crag the Brewer]

From the ceiling or on a pole with a hook ... either one works. Think of a flexshaft motor as an IV bottle. Hang it anyway that elevates it the correct amount. Bench poles are usually adjustable, so the motor is at the right height for the shaft length to be comfortably used. I had an 8-foot-long workbench and put a long curtain rod over it. The flexshaft slid to where I was working, and out of te way when I didn't need it.
In most cases, the bench and seat are a fixed spot and a piece of 1/2" pipe bolted to the corner of the bench and 1/4" rod hook dropped in the end of the pipe work just fine.

Would the foot pedal be annoying while using it standing up?

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

A flexshaft is far better used sitting. Use a tall stool if needed. You need bracing to keep control.
That said, you can operate one while standing up. Dentists do it all day long.

 

[Crag the Brewer]

A flexshaft is far better used sitting. Use a tall stool if needed. You need bracing to keep control.
That said, you can operate one while standing up. Dentists do it all day long.

Yeah.... That's true, and their clients are more important than mine