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Belt Sanders #2 – Portable

Portable Belt Sander Safety

The portable belt sander features a continuous abrasive belt that works over pulleys at either end
of the main sanding table. Adjustments are provided for tensioning and tracking the belt.

The size of the sander is commonly designated the same as the width of the sanding belt
which it uses.

Safe work practices:

  • Safety glasses or a face shield should be worn when operating a portable belt sander.
  • Excessive pressure against the belt should be avoided. The designed weight of the machine should be the only pressure needed.
  • Be sure the belt is properly tensioned and tracking true.
  • All adjustments other than tracking are made when the sander is at a dead stop and unplugged.
  • Ensure that sanding belts are checked before using them, and replace worn or torn belts.
  • Small stock (2”x6”) or less should not be sanded with the belt sander.
  • Use the portable belt sander in a consistent pattern, always moving away from the power cord.
  • Belts should always be installed with the arrow in the direction of the motor rotation.
  • The portable belt sander should be used at top (full) speed at all times.
  • When carrying the machine to and from the work area, always use both hands.
  • Keep your hands away from the moving sanding belt.
  • Work to be belt sanded should always be held securely with a clamp, vise, etc.
  • When first plugging in the machine, make sure the switch is off and either lay the machine on its side or securely hold the machine off the work surface.
  • Always use two hands when operating the machine.
  • Tracking adjustment is made only when the machine is running.
  • Both hands should be used to operate a sander, one on the trigger switch. The other on the front knob handle.
  • Ensure that all electrical power cords are kept away from the sanding area and from the moving parts of the sander.
  • The sanding belt should be kept at the right tension so that it runs straight and at the same speed as the pulley drum, that is, without slipping.
  • Ensure sanding belts are the same width as the pulley drum.
  • Never lean heavily on the sander when it is moving.
  • Do not overreach. Always keep proper footing and balance.
  • The sander should be unplugged from the power supply before changing or adjusting the sanding belt.
  • Never work on material which is not held securely, unless it is heavy enough to stay in place. Always make sure the piece you are working on cannot move.
  • All sanding dust should be cleaned from the sander motor and air vents. Never let them get clogged, as the machine will over-heat.
  • The sander should never be used without an exhaust system or a dust collecting bag or bin.
  • The air vents on a sander should never be covered.

* Sand Safely – Sand Smooth *