Belt sander question

Q

Quy4n8

Joined
Nov 27, 2002
Messages
659
I haven’t posted in this section of the forum before, but I have a question that you may be able to answer. I have a 4 x 36 wood working belt sander I use for re-profiling edges, and up to this point I have always used it with the belt moving away from the edge. I just thought about using it with the belt moving into the edge because that way I can set the angle I want on the sander and hold the knife parallel to the ground to get my edge. My concern is this; does the edge ever catch on the belt? How is this usually done and is there any advantage to doing it one way or the other? Thanks for any info.

Richard
 
I can't speak for a 4 x 36", but I have ground many different shaped blades with the belt running into the edge as you say. I have never had a belt grab a blade. Now a buffer is a different story. It may take some time for you to get used to changing the way you grind, so practice on scrap first.
 
When I am grinding a bevel I go with the edge into the belt. When sharpening, away from the belt so I can see the burr.
 
I do all my flat grinding on a platen with the edge down. Makes it easier for me to avoid screw-ups on the spine, and I can monitor the angle better.

Instead of raising the belt sander, why not build yourself a jig?

Fasten down a triangle piece of hardwood (cut at the angle you want) to each side of sander (right outside the belt). Use that to get started....
 
You must stay focused grinding edge into belt. I do it that way, too. It can slice the belt, throw the knife, and smack you upside the face with the belt! Pretty exciting for a moment, if ya like adrenaline!

Wear a face shield.
 
Make sure you are using butt-joint belts if you are going to grind into the belt. Lap-joint belts can catch.
Also, never grind into a scotch brite belt-don't ask how I know that...
 
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