An Introduction to the Surface Conditioning Sand Belt

When you work with metal, your repertoire of tools makes all the difference in the finished products you are capable of producing. Sanding belts are often thought of as items that are used only in woodworking industries, but there are specific types of sanding belts that are designed more for the metalworking industry, and surface conditioning sand belts are a primary example. If you've never used a sand belt for metal finishing work, you are likely to have a few questions. Here's what you should know so you can get the most from this metalworking accessory. 

What exactly is the surface conditioning sand belt made from?

Surface conditioning sand belts that are made for metalworking processes are of course made from denser materials to handle the abrasiveness and friction of grinding against metal. These belts are usually made with a heavy nylon mesh material that is injected with abrasive grains of rock, minerals, or sand. While the abrasive grains do the work of sanding down a finish, the mesh or nylon fibers of the belt help to keep the abrasive material from being in direct contact with the metal you are working on. Therefore, you are capable of performing sanding-like actions without concerns of throwing sparks or generating as much heat. 

What types of metal can you use the sand belt on?

The surface conditioning belts that you can pick up are made with different finishing capabilities, just like a sander belt would be. Therefore, different belts will work well on different types of metal. Most people use the belts to work with metal alloys and softer metals to achieve a more even or smooth finish, but the conditioning belt with a coarser grade of sand is well suited for something like stainless steel or other denser metals. 

In what ways can you use the conditioning sand belt?

Conditioning sand belts can be used on various types of sanders. Some of the belts are designed to work with woodworking tools like traditional belt sanders and knife belt sanders. Some conditioning sand belts are also really useful on dense wood finishes as well as on metal. You can achieve different types of finishes using the various kinds of belts that are available and by learning movement techniques. For example, you can create a brushed nickel appearance on a piece of stainless steel or aluminum alloy by moving the sanding belt in a specific direction. 

Contact a company like Multitool USA that provides these belts for more information.

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