A belt sander (also known as a strip sander) is a woodworking powertool/machine used for sanding, smoothing, and shaping wood and other materials. They may come as handheld portable devices or as stationary workshop equipment.

Basically, the tool consists of a continuous loop of sandpaper, or abrasive belt, that rotates around two cylindrical drums. Moreover, the belt is typically made of abrasive material such as aluminum oxide or silicon carbide, which allows for efficient material removal.

Belt Sander Key Features

Here are the key features and uses of belt sanders

• Material Removal: This type of sander can quickly remove material from the surface of wood and other types of workpieces. 
• Different Sizes: They also come in various sizes from portable models to larger machines to suit the scale of the project and other requirements.
• Adjustable Speed: Most sanders have adjustable speed settings. This is useful when working with different types of materials and tasks.
• Dust Collection: It is common for these sanders to come with a dust collection system. Essentially, this is important for keeping the workspace clean and reducing health risks.
• Sanding Belts: Users can easily replace the belts on a sander when they become worn or need a different grit size for the task.

Handling Safety

Whether you are using a portable or a stationary belt sander, it is crucial to observe handling safety to prevent accidents and injuries. Here are some guidelines for a safer woodworking experience:

• Proper Training: It is recommended that beginners seek proper training first before attempting to use belt sanders.
• Wear Protective Gear: Below are some of the basic safety essentials for woodworking.
  • Safety Goggles 
  • Hearing Protection 
  • Respirators 
  • Gloves
• Inspection: Check the sander for any signs of damage or wear. Make sure all the components are in good working condition.
• Proper Position: When using a portable sander, keep a firm grip on the tool by using both hands. For stationary machines, stand to the side to avoid getting hit by flying debris.
• Feed Direction: Always move the sander in the same direction as the rotation of the belt to prevent kick back.
• Turn Off After Use: When not in use, turn off the equipment and disconnect from the power source to prevent accidental starts.