There are numerous types of belt sanders that you can find, and they can be divided into two basic types: stationary belt sanders that are clamped on a benchtop, and handheld belt sanders that are portable and can be carried. Stationary belt sanders are only found with corded power, while you can find handheld belt sanders with both corded and cordless capabilities. The speed of a belt sander refers to how fast it rotates the belt, and this is measured in feet per second, while most manufacturers also show the value in rotations per minute, or RPM. Most of the belt sanders have a fixed speed, generally ranging between 1500 and 2000 RPM. Plus, you can find belt sanders with two-speed settings: low and high.
Power All stationary belt sanders run off AC current, but you’ll find both corded and cordless portable belt sanders, though corded is the most common type. Cordless belt sanders typically use 18-volt lithium-ion batteries, although some hardier models use 20-volt batteries instead. Most handheld belt sanders’ motors run between 6 and 12 amps of power; if you only need the tool for lightweight and occasional sanding jobs, the lower end of that range is sufficient, but if you plan on tackling larger projects, you’ll be happier with a belt sander that runs towards the top of that range. Speed The speed at which a belt sander rotates the sanding belt is usually measured in feet per minute, although some manufacturers stick with rotations per minute.
There are other styles of belt sanders with specific specialties, such as curved sanders for pipes, or drum sanders for floors. Best Value Handheld Belt Sander Makita makes great belt sanders, and the 3-in. There aren’t many cordless handheld belt sanders on the market, but among that limited stock the Ryobi P450 Belt Sander stands out.
The most important quality a belt sander should have is simply power without it you will be disappointed at the time and effort you have to put in and you still won’t get as good a finish as you could have if you had a good performing powerful belt sander. We have compiled this list based on the very best performing belt sanders that can stand up to the task and match up to there claims. Many belt sanders have a hoover attachment for dust removal and although it’s not an essential feature it does help keep the work area free from wood dust and anyone who has used a sander will know the dust that comes from sanding becomes airborne and gets absolutely everywhere.
To offer some help, we have a list of the best belt sanders in the market that can get you as close to perfection as possible. Even if you need to change the belt during work, you can take the help of the quick-release belt lever and a fingertip belt-tracking knob. Our list of the Best Belt Sanders does the first part of the task for you by narrowing down the products.
best new belt sander Related Question:
What size belt sander is best?
A common size for home shop use is a 3″ x 21″ sander. This size offers a sizeable sanding area, without the fatigue generated by running a large machine. I think you’ll find it can handle most tasks in the shop.
What is the quietest belt sander?
Best Overall: Makita 9403 4-Inch x 24-Inch Belt Sander It’s powerful enough to be described as a “beast,” though it keeps its roar down, boasting the title of quietest belt sander in its class with noise levels limited to 84 dB.