Belt sanders (so named as they use a continuous sanding belt) are versatile machines capable of dealing with the roughest of surfaces have a very aggressive action on wood and are normally used only for the beginning stages of the sanding process, or used to rapidly remove material. They are ideal for stripping wood, floorboards, other preparation work and cleaning up glued panels. Unlike any other sander the belt sander 'cuts' in one direction only which means it can be used parallel to the grain of the work piece minimising any cross grain damage. Variable speed option makes a belt sander more versatile and less likely to damage delicate surfaces, sanding at a lower speed removes less material and creates less heat so finished such as paint and varnish are less likely to meal and fuse with the belt as they are being removed. A wide range of belts are available
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