Sanding Belts

Belt sanders make it easy to complete tasks that might otherwise tax your shoulders and patience over many long hours. A number of top manufacturers make these machines in different sizes and power ratings, from tiny handheld versions through the kind of freestanding heavy equipment you often see in professional shops. Understanding the different wattages and sanding grades is essential if you are to pick a tool whose price and capabilities match your best vision for the project at hand.Three components of the tool must be weighed for proper utility. The drums themselves should boast a powerful enough motor to handle heavy jobs, wide sheets of plywood and more. You may want a dust reclamation bag, preferably one with an internal vacuum, to absorb the byproducts of this messy process. And you may want to get sanding belts in a variety of grades to endure the considerable punishment that comes with removing wood grain at high speed.Upper-end models tend to offer variable speed settings, dialing down the abrasion for fine work such as moldings and thin veneers. Other features to watch out for include well-placed power switches and high foot-per-minute ratings that ensure the motor doesn't slow down in response to heavy pressure. Choosing a well-made tracking mechanism can help too, as this part keeps the belt in alignment and gives you options for the orientation of your work.A little searching should help you narrow down your options. Prominent manufacturers include Bosch, Craftsman and Porter-Cable.