Belt sanders

Belt sanders: what you need to know

Belt sanders are used for treating the surface of car parts, for example, before painting. They help to eliminate irregularities as fast and easy as possible and are perfect for sanding large areas.

Operating principle

Belt sanders are driven by either an electric or pneumatic motor and its operation is based on a V-belt drive. The functional element is an abrasive belt mounted on two pulleys which move in one direction all the time. A metal plate with a soft lining or contact arm are used as a base. The shaft of the motor comprises two impellers: one used for cooling the motor and the second helps to collect dust into the dust bag.

What are the types of belt sanders

By the way of application, the devices fall into:

• Hand-held. Involve moving the tool itself against the fixed surface. These devices are often used if the parts to be sanded are hard or impossible to dismantle.
• Stationary. They are securely attached to a base like a bench. Most often are used for the rough treatment of the spares including old paint removal. Not the tool itself is moved but the target part.

By the level of working characteristics:

• Household. Equipped with a 500-800 W motor, can ensure the belt speed of up to 360 metres per minute. They are inexpensive and have compact dimensions and a lightweight. They aren’t intended for continuous loads as they become hot very quickly.
• Professional. They are fitted with a motor with the power output over 800 W which moves the working surface with the speed of up to 1 000 metres per minute. They are able to work for a long time without breaks and are comfortable to sand large areas.

By power supply type:

• Electric. Powered by mains. The most widely spread.
• Air (pneumatic). Considered to be the most reliable ones. Can be used in conditions of high humidity. Have to be connected to an air compressor.

Tips on using belt sanders

When you replace the sanding belt, make sure you’ve adjusted the tension. Control the sanding depth. It is recommended to use a special sanding frame for precise work and a perfectly smooth surface. Choosing a speed mode, consider the type of the processed material. For example, plastic parts are sanded at the lowest speed to prevent them from overheating and melting. You shouldn’t press against the belt sander: this can become the cause of damaged surface.

When using a device, you must observe the safety regulations. You should prevent foreign objects including the power supply cable from getting between the part and moving working element. It is recommended to switch on the tool and only after that start the work to avoid an uncontrolled jerking. It is not allowed to use electric tools with visible damages of the body, cable or pneumatic hoses.

AUTODOC: convenient online shopping

Making purchases online is always beneficial and convenient, especially if you are a customer of the online shop AUTODOC. Our catalogue includes high-quality products from reliable brands. Reasonable prices, special offers, inexpensive delivery will help you to save. To buy a belt sander and any other tools, use a searching system of the website or contact our support service.