Table of Contents
Introduction
A standard tool used by carpenters and DIYers is the belt sander. A belt sander is a must-have tool for them because of its multipurpose nature. It encompasses so many things and can perform so many functions. It finds application in trimming picture frames, leveling surfaces, as well as shaping wood. The belt sander comes in large belt sanders for refurnishing floors and small handheld belt sanders for refurbishing furniture.
Among other tools available for the shaping of wood, belt sanders are preferable. A belt sander becomes preferable due to its time-saving characteristic if you are an expert in its usage. However, some people complain about the belt sander due to the wreckage of most of their work. That aside, a belt sander’s speed quality allows for efficiency, especially if you are using it for a job.
Using a belt sander, as obtained in any other machine, can get spoilt or damaged. You can observe defects in your sanded wood, or there may be problems inside the machine. There is a remedy for the belt sander’s damage, so it shouldn’t bother you anymore. Its repair though a bit difficult, can be carried out by just anybody, even one without engineering skills.
It should also be at the back of your mind that there is no absolute way to fix belt sanders. There are procedures in resolving it quite alright. Still, it might not give total efficiency as it used to at initial purchase. You might always be able to fix it in time to get the project you are working on done in time before getting another one.
Learn more about belt sanders by checking out How to repair a belt sander
How Best To Use a Belt Sander
Now you know how a belt sander can benefit you; I am sure you would want to know the best ways to use it. Knowing the best way to use the belt sander can ensure it gets to its warranty period and probably exceed it depending on how you use it.
The belt sander works at its pressure. It functions using friction between the material and the machine, so you might want to allow the device to play its role without meddling much. How can you interfere? Applying extra pressure on the machine when it’s at work is one of the ways you can interfere.
Also, allow the tool to move at its speed so it won’t dip. You tipping the belt sander in any form or changing the speed and direction is another way of meddling. So for your machine to get to its maximum shelf life, you really would want to avoid meddling.
Lastly, be careful with the cord connected to the power source when working on a piece. The cable can be distracting as the machine is handheld. Still, you can adjust yourself without causing damage to the device. You can do this by placing the cord over your shoulder so it can get out of the way.
With all of this, your machine would be excellent in its operations. It will also last to the expiration time as designed by the manufacturer and if you are not careful, even exceed that.
How To Repair a Belt Sander
The sanding process is pretty simple, and the joy of having precise and smooth wood sanding for your wood makes it more enjoyable. However, it is a machine, and machines are prone to having issues. The belt sander is no exception, no matter how excellent its sanding may be. Here famous problems your belt sander might run into and how to fix them.
Belt Sander Having Broken or Damaged Belt
A belt sander can experience this problem when their expected life span is about to end; this is normal. However, when it is otherwise, there is a problem. Broken or damaged arises from a lousy belt joint, using incorrect belt backing, improper storage, and even shipping damage.
In repairing, you should ensure that proper investigation of those, as mentioned earlier, is credited. Carefully pack your belt sander, and do not keep the machine on the ground. It becomes advisable as belt sanders can absorb moisture from the floor; hanging the belt sander is preferable.
Belt Sander Experiencing Improper Belt Tracking
A problem of this nature might arise due to uneven rollers, low tension, belt cut, abrasive storage, etc. The belt sander needs to undergo observation to ascertain which of the issues it is facing. A digital indicator can function to determine the angle of the rollers. If it is uneven, it is advisable to install another one.
Belt Sander Building Up Excessive Dust
Excessive dust build up in the belt sander can result in burn marks on the piece you are working on. It can also cause premature wear and tear of the machine. It can be caused by low airflow due to climate conditions in your workshop and clogs blocking the airflow. The climate condition in your environment should be high when working with a belt sander. You ought to measure static discharge, which results in friction for the machine. High static can cause significant damages, so the alternative is preferable.
Belt Sander Throttle Problem
The throttle lever channels power to spin the belt; hence it moves freely. If the free movement stops for any reason, clean the throttle lever properly or replace it if the issue persists.
Belt Sander With Worn Parts
All machines experience worn part problem. The most common worn part in the belt sander is the bearing and pulley. The two aforementioned makes the belt sander skip or, worse still, not spin again. To repair this, check for worn parts and shop for the details that match the type of sand belt you possess.
Conclusion
If your belt sander doesn’t function like it used to, take time to ascertain the issue before taking any action. Besides, if you decide to fix your sand belt, you should have it in mind that it is a short-term fix, and you should obtain a new sand belt as soon as possible.
