Belt sander conversion for metal

[Heavymetalmechanic]

I may have an opportunity to get my hands on a used belt sander for next to nothing. I would remove/replace the plastic covers and guards with metal ones. And swap out the belt.

Can you think of any reasons why I would not be able to use it for metal?

I understand that most belt sanders for wood run at lower RPM, is there any other big differences? I know that I will see decreased life due to metal filing in everything, I'm ok with that at this price.

 

[Strouty]

I was not aware that they ran at different RPMs, I have never had any issues using a "wood" sanders for metal. The plastic pieces would be the only concern, since they could melt from sparks. If you can address that, I think you will be happy.

 

[Heavymetalmechanic]

Thanks, that's pretty much how I feel about it, I was just looking for a bit of confirmation. I may be wrong about the RPM thing.

 

[Scimonetti]

Thanks, that's pretty much how I feel about it, I was just looking for a bit of confirmation. I may be wrong about the RPM thing.

You were correct. Metal belt grinders run at higher rpms, but it's really the sf/min that matters. A belt speed around 5000 sfm will be good for metal, but destroy wood. Wood will harden or burn if it gets too hot so they run slower. One thing to keep in mind is the bearings might not like the higher speeds. I know it would be worth the risk on a cheap sander though.

Do you have any pictures of the sander or a brand or model?

 

[sz0k30]

The sanders don't care! I've been using a Craftsman belt/disc sander for my home & shop projects for over 20 years. Never had any issues with wood or steel.

 

[zkling]

What size is the machine?

 

[Heavymetalmechanic]

It was a 4" wide belt, after taking a look at it I decided it was more trouble then it would be worth. The roller was gouged up, the disk was fractured and all the bearings were shot. It would be less work to build a proper one then to fix it, so I passed on it. Thank you everyone for your answers though.

 

[zkling]

Probably a wise choice, with the amount of plastic you describe it was most likely a low end machine.

 

[tarbellb]

Grab yourself a 6" belt x 8" disc combo from the 70's - 90's. Both Delta, Craftsman, and others made them and are pretty beefy.

I beat the **** out of mine with metal and wood on a daily basis. I use the cheap HF abrasives, replace when needed (I get what seems like decent life from them?).