A Belt Sander in the Pappalardo Laboratory
Labeled Photograph
Description
Operating a Belt Sander
Using a Small Belt Sander
Beltsanders are effective on wood, most metals (aluminum, steel, brass, etc), and some plastics. The small particles generated by the belt sander can be toxic. It's good to use a sander with a vent attached to it and to wear a mask when using the belt sander. Don't use the belt sander on printed circuit boards or fiberglass; they create toxic particles.
To round off the edges of a part, one must hold the part on an angle
with respect to the belt. Be sure that the belt is pointing down into
the belt as demonstrated in the video. If the part is pointing up, the
belt could catch on the part and throw it down into your hand. Note the
size of the gap between the belt and table is wider than the workpiece.
This is a ddangerous situation. The gap should be adjusted.
(click here for video)2.25MB
As the small belt sander was previously configured, it is difficult to
smooth out convex features without creating facets on the part. This
problem can be alleviated by reconfiguring the machine. The table and
platen can be removed to allow the belt to conform to the shape of your
part.
(click here for video)2.03MB
On to the drill press.
Return to the machine shop.
Return to the Mechanical Engineering Department.