(23.) which of the following is the correct technique for using a belt sander?

Question

(a) sand in a circular motion
(b) apply pressure to the sander
(c) hold the job with one hand while sanding
(d) use the machine only when it attains full speed

Answer 1

D is the answer

Answer 2

A belt sander is not usually used in a 'circular' motion... instead they are used to 'remove stock'. A circular motion would destroy the wood grain, leaving cross-grain hatching. Circular motion with sanders is usually used when finish sanding furniture or cabinet grade lumber. A 'random' orbital sander offers the best results for this type of work.

If you apply too much pressure, you can bog down the motor, or, if sanding a narrow edge, tear the sandpaper. Or take off too much of whatever you're sanding in that spot...hehehe

A common belt sander (handheld size) should be held with both hands, with the workpiece clamped, or fixed in place... or with the belt sander clamped in place, and the piece held with both hands (technique used with small parts, where greater control is needed). You never hold the piece AND the sander. Some belt sanders are stationary machines, the belts can be 3 to 5 feet long. These types have tables (some of which tilt) so the workpiece can be held against the platen, or drum.

MOST beltsanders have a 'fixed' speed, but some are adjustable. You want it to attain the speed you have it set for... whether that is its maximum speed or not... before setting it to your workpiece.

To give a better answer, I need to know what kind of work is being considered here, and what kind of beltsander. "Belt sander" by itself is too vague - I know from experience there are many ways to manufacture things. Since this appears to be a homework or test question... hehehehe... I'd need to know what kind of class... or emphasis the class is leaning towards. How one uses a belt sander to flush fit a backsplash, for example, would be completely different from how one would be used in a woodworking shop, where it would be used to help shape curves, etc.

Good Luck

Answer 3

Sand in the direction of the grain only
Use both hands for even pressure
Start with sander in place, then turn on and speed will vary a little with pressure applied.
Two light runs is better than one with heavy pressure. Let the sander, with the correct grit (paper) do the work.

Answer 4

"D"