I use a buffer all the time but am VERY careful about bonnet speed and am constantly putting my hand on the work to monitor temperature.
Also, fair to mention the applications for these products. The abrasive kits shouldnt be used to bring back clarity on large surfaces. They are designed more for deeper scratches and spot repairs and do well to that end.
Larger surfaces with MINOR scratching or fine hazing can be treated with Novus or other ultra fine compound and then finished with an anti-static cream or something like Meguires plastic polish. Meguires has no abrasive content; it is more like a lubricant fine liquid filler. It is the final step in any of the plastic restoration processes I use.