General safety principles
Abrasive belts are extremely dangerous if used incorrectly. Unlike wheels, belts operate over a large contact area and can tear, causing serious injury.
Main hazards:
- Contact with abrasive belt at operating speed - deep burns and cuts
- Tape breakage during operation
- Sparks, dust and fumes from grinding
- Noise
- Vibration
Storage of sanding belts
Proper storage is key to the safety and effectiveness of tapes.
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 18-22°C |
| Humidity | 45-65% |
| Sunlight | Avoid direct exposure |
| Heat sources | Keep at a distance |
| Excessive humidity | Do not allow |
12 safety rules
1. Do not use near flammable materials
Belt sanding generates sparks and high temperatures. This can cause a fire or explosion near flammable materials.
2. Be prepared for the tape to break
Abrasive belts can break during use. Always wear protective clothing, check the condition of the belt before each use, and do not work with worn or damaged belts.
3. Protect others
Belt sanding can create high concentrations of dust, gas or mist, which pose a health hazard and risk of explosion. Ensure that people in the vicinity are protected.
4. Remove loose clothing
Long hair, ties, loose clothing and jewelry can be pulled into the machine. Always tie back your hair, remove jewelry, and wear loose clothing.
5. Personal protective equipment
If the machine does not have a fully enclosed protective cover, the operator must wear:
- Protective gloves
- Dicky
- Face shield (not just glasses)
- Respirator
6. Check the protective cover
Check the locking mechanism of the machine cover. Never remove the protective guards.
7. Correct installation
- Follow the direction of travel indicated by the arrow on the tape.
- After installation, replace the protective covers and adjust
- Perform a test run at full speed for at least 30 seconds
- Check for vibration and unusual sounds
8. Fixing the workpiece
The workpiece must be securely fixed and supported so that it cannot move during machining.
9. Work technique
- Start the machine and wait for it to reach full operating speed before starting
- Use the center of the tape - avoid working with the edge
- Sand as evenly as possible across the plane.
- Protect the belt from damage by sharp edges of workpieces
- Do not apply excessive pressure or allow to overheat.
10. Wet and dry sanding
Use belts only dry unless they are marked as suitable for wet sanding. If in doubt, contact the manufacturer.
11. After work is finished
Do not open the cover or put down the portable machine until the belt has completely stopped.
12. Periodic control
Regularly check the tapes for wear, cracks at the edges, and breakage at the gluing (joint) point. If found, replace immediately.
Safety checklist for sanding belts
| # | Audit |
|---|---|
| 1 | Tape without damage, cracks, or peeling |
| 2 | The tape matches the machine type |
| 3 | The direction of the tape movement coincides with the arrow |
| 4 | Protective covers in place and adjusted |
| 5 | The workpiece is securely fixed |
| 6 | PPE worn (goggles, gloves, apron, respirator) |
| 7 | Loose clothing and jewelry removed |
| 8 | Test run 30 seconds passed |
| 9 | No flammable materials nearby |
| 10 | The exhaust/ventilation is working |
Frequently asked questions
How to store sanding belts?
Store at 18-22°C and 45-65% humidity. Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources. Unpack wide ribbons 48 hours before use and hang on rods with a diameter of at least 50 mm.
How long does a test run take?
After installing the belt, perform a test run at full speed for at least 30 seconds. Check for vibration and unusual sounds. If problems are found, stop and eliminate the cause.
Can the belt be used for wet sanding?
Only if the belt is specifically marked as suitable for wet sanding. By default, belts are only used dry. If in doubt, contact the manufacturer.
Do you need certified abrasives?
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