Need help with type of grinding wheel....

My dad has one of those. As I remember it was pretty pricey. Don't know where he got it or if they are still available. Its a rubber contact wheel with a belt around it. His was thinner tho.
 
it was some kind of expando wheel. The inner part had a ribbed structure to the outer wheel so it would flex and fill the belt that enclosed it to full size. Don't remember the name just what happened. Mike
 
They are known as "expanding drum sanders."
Available from www.riogrande.com
They work very well, but should not be used above their recommended speed (usually 1750 RPM.) I had one years ago that I put on a 3600 RPM grinder and it worked fine until I snagged the belt. It ripped off and, having nothing to hold it, the drum over expanded and exploded-throwing rubber shrapnel into my chest. It sounded like a shotgun. Luckily, I wasn't hurt. Be careful!
Used as directed, these are an inexpensive alternative to an expensive belt grinder.
 
The grinder I use is a 10" aluminum contact wheel. it opens up pac-man style and clamps closed on the strips of sanding belt that I have in big rolls. the wheel has a cone shaped centre and a locking nut that fits over the cone and when tightened down it squeezes the wheel tightly closed.
 
It's a lapidary wheel. You can get replacement belts for them pretty cheaply from lapidary supply websites. They come in sizes from 6-12", I believe. I considered getting one once, because they are cheap - only about $29.
 
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