How to Repair your belt sander and save money!!

belt sander 1

Belt sander help in making solid belts for sanding to complete the task. Unfortunately, sometimes, the straps split in the middle, and you’ll need to purchase new ones or replace the ones you have. While there isn’t a specific method to fix this, it is possible to repair it in the short term to get the project done, but it’ll take some time to fix it.

How to Repair your belt sander
Image Source: Triton Tools

Procedural way to repair your belt sander :

Sanding adhesive of the belt

There aren’t any specific adhesives that are suitable for sanding belts. The most effective adhesive is industrial strength, such as builder’s adhesive and Gorilla glue ( glue for wood) will be able to hold. Make sure you choose a bond that can withstand the heat of your belt sander, as it can get very hot when it is used. Also, it would help if you had something capable of handling the amount of tension placed on the belt since belt sanders are operated under pressure.

Sanding adhesive of the belt
Image Source: Tools First

Finally, you can use some or more of the hot glue gun.

So, the question is, what kind of adhesive can be put on the sanding machine to bring it back into good working order?  The glue utilized on the standard sanding belts is a high-temperature phenolic bonding agent similar to the silicon RTV adhesive. Still, the manufacturer includes polyester mesh to reinforce the bond. In addition, there are a variety of industrial adhesives that can be used to attach your sanding conveyor. 

Gorilla glue
Image Source: YouTube

However, you must be aware that they’re not likely to last as long as the original adhesive; however, they can provide your sanding belt with just a couple of hours more time than it did.

Put it under pressure to make sure that the glue is bonded to the sandpaper. You must also give it a sufficient curing or bonding time, at least 24 hours. Finally, make sure you test the joint before placing the newly glued sander belt on the sander.

However, many types of glue won’t hold when used on the belt sander because of the high temperature and pressure the belt sander is under while working. It’s better to get a brand new belt specially designed for the machine you have; however, if you need urgent repairs to get the machine up and running again, this is a viable alternative.

Sanding the joint tape of the belt

The most commonly used belt sander joint is the butt joint, which is created when the two ends connect with a thin piece of tape. The tape may come in different varieties, such as Kevlar or poly-adhesive tapes. The most famous joint tape is fire-reinforced because your belt sander is one of the most durable tools, and you’ll need something extremely durable to ensure that the joint will last.

Joint tape can be applied at the top or side of the belt. You can use various variations to ensure you have the belt set to the correct position and fit the belt sander you’re employing.

Some tips to make your sanding easy!!

Sanding the belt is easy with kevlar tape.

Kevlar tape is ideal for selective reinforcement; it is a plain weave that is strong and uniform. Kevlar can be used in distinctive deHowever, kevlar Kevlar tape is not equipped with an adhesive backing, and it requires some epoxy or resin to attach it.

belt sander
Image Source: Sensible Digs

Kevlar is ideal for repairs and reinforcement. You require a serrated knife for cutting Kevlar. It is possible to use Kevlar tape to strengthen your belt sander. Kevlar tape is sold in a variety of hardware stores and Amazon.

Poly-adhesive tape is a perfect choice for sanding. 

Poly-adhesive tape is a great option to repair belts for sanding. This tape provides multi-purpose bonding and seals that will last for quite a while. It is also flexible and elastic, essential for improving belts for sanding as they move and are constantly under tension. Applying the Poly-adhesive adhesive tape gives you a lasting, flexible seal and can be bonded to various kinds of materials.

Poly adhesive tape is a perfect choice for sanding.
Image Source: Sheldahl

Remember that your belt sander operates extremely hard and is constantly under tension and heat. So, even though it’s a good option for sealing your joints, it’s not a practical solution for long.

Splicing the belt makes the sanding faster.

The selection of the best belt fastener is the most crucial step in splicing the belt. Choosing a system with outstanding strength and durability is essential because the belt sander is a highly durable machine, and the belt will be 

subjected to a lot of tension and heat.

Splicing the belt makes the sanding faster.
Image Source: YouTube

Conclusion

Repairing your sander’s belt isn’t as easy as you imagine. There aren’t many adhesives that provide the required bond considering the heat and tension the belt is exposed to. The likelihood is that, even if you succeed in repairing your belt, it won’t be a durable fix; however should you find yourself in need of assistance, you could repair the damage in the short term.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *