Belt Rotation

R

RoMo

Joined
Oct 12, 2007
Messages
97
Hi Guys,

I have a question that probably is stupid to all of you pros. I understand that the blade of the knife and the direction of rotation of the belt should be in the same direction. That is, if belt is spinning down, then the blade should also face down. My delimma is does the belt need to be installed in a certain direction of rotation, depending on the splice. I have the Kalamazoo sm1X 42. None of my belts have an arrow showing which way the belt should rotate. I also have the Work Sharp 1/2 x 12 sander and if my memory is correct, most of the belts have an arrow on the backside, showing the direction the belt should spin? Am I just having a bad memory or is this so?

Please help.

RoMo
 
If there is no directional arrow - go in either direction.

Once I use a belt in a direction I continue to use said belt in that direction for it's life.
 
I use them both ways to maximize the life of the belt. When they don't cut well in one direction turn them around to make them cut better. Using a belt dresser to clear the gunk on the abrasives helps extend belt life.
 
Thanks Guys,

I have been wondering about this, but never thought to ask. You Guys are the best.

RoMo
 
I have an SM1 also and agree with Bufford. when it feels like the belt is getting worn I reverse it and it seems to cut better for a while more. I cant quantify it but it sure seems to work. Then I just pitch it. The smaller the grit the longer they seem to last. My 15 and 9 microns seem to last for over 100 blades. While 40, 80 and bigger last around 50 -60 blades. What longevity do others get?
 
I'll definately keep this in mind. After all, it does make sense to me.

Thanks guys.

RoMo
 
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