Belt Sander Vs Orbital Sander

Summary:

Belt and orbital sanders are two of the most popular sanding tools available. Both are effective for working on wood floors and furniture, but their purposes are different:

• Belt sanders: These tools are powerful and fast, perfect for large, flat surfaces like hardwood floors and oversized furniture. They excel at heavy-duty sanding but may be too aggressive for more delicate tasks.

• Orbital sanders: These tools are more precise and maneuverable, making them ideal for small, curved, or detailed projects. They can leave swirling marks if not used correctly, but they are excellent for finishing surfaces.

Key differences:

• Power: Belt sanders are more powerful, while orbital sanders offer better control.

• Sanding method: Belt sanders work continuously; orbital sanders move in small circular motions.

• Sandpaper: Belt sanders require specific sanding belts, while orbital sanders use standard sandpaper.

Which one to choose:

Choose a belt sander for large, rough jobs and an orbital sander for fine and precise jobs. Ideally, both tools will fulfil all your sanding requirements.

Out of the different types of sanders, belt sanders and orbital sanders are the most widely used sanding family tools. They are excellent for use on wood floors and furniture; you should use them sparingly. Choosing one of these tools can be challenging because they have similar properties. One should use the right tool based on their purpose of working.

If you have a big task, you need a belt sander; for small or spherical jobs, you prefer an orbital sander. Please continue reading to find out more about the belt sander and orbital sander. The differences between belt sanders and orbital sanders and how to operate them are covered in this article.

Belt Sanders

The belt sander is an effective sanding tool. It features an electric motor that moves a set of drums. A belt sander is broader than other alternatives but very strong.

• In Terms Of Speed, A belt sander's speed is expressed in feet per minute, or the number of feet it can sand in a minute. The faster it moves and smoothes the surface, the higher the speed rating. Most belt sanders have a variable speed feature that makes speed control simple.

• In Terms Of Power – Belt sanders have phenomenal power measured in amps. Power ratings for belt sanders typically range from 8 to 11 amps. Buy a belt sander with more amperage if you want to do a lot of work.

• In Terms Of Types – Since every belt sander is made to be strong, there aren't many different models. Speed and power are the major factors that differentiate various belt sanders. However, you can choose between a handheld or stationary belt sander.

• In Terms Of Ideal Use – Large and rough surfaces are perfect for belt sanders. Belt sanders, for instance, are excellent for large furniture pieces like tables and hardwood flooring. In contrast, because of their high power, belt sanders are not the right choice for small components.

Read More: Belt Grinder vs Belt Sanders

Orbital Sanders

An orbital sander rotates in tiny circles or orbits while using sanding discs. Large sections may be quickly sanded down, thanks to these swirl patterns. The sander's square design allows you to access corners and other tight spaces. These sanders can produce swirly patterns on whatever you are sanding.

• In Terms Of Speed, the speed of an orbital sander is measured by how many orbits it can complete in a minute. A typical orbital sander does 10,000 rotations per minute. You can do the task more quickly. Therefore, you should always look for high speeds when working in broad areas.

• In Terms Of Power – Amps are used to measure orbital sander power. You know that the sander is more powerful when more amps are listed. Powerful enough to remove a large amount of surface area at once. Consider using a different tool, such as a belt sander, if you need to remove a lot of surface area.

• In Terms Of Varieties – Varieties of orbital sanders are determined mainly by handle types. There are three primary categories of handles:

• Pistol-grip handles: Provide the highest level of control because you use both hands, typically found on professional sanders.

•  Jug-grip handles: These are Designed to adjust the sander underneath furniture.

•  Palm grip handles: Most famous due to how convenient, cozy, and tiny they are

Both corded and cordless types of orbital sanders are available. The length of the cord puts a cap on the power of corded devices. In contrast, although cordless sanders are portable, they lack the same ability.

• In Terms Of Ideal Use, The most suitable orbital sanders can fit into tight spaces and work on rounded edges. They are also ideal for sanding surfaces that will be treated later. If you don't treat the wood after sanding, you shouldn't use an orbital sander since it can leave swirl marks.

Belt Sanders Vs. Orbital Sanders

Belt and orbital sanders differ primarily in three ways:

1. Power

Oscillating sanders lack the power that belt sanders do. With a belt sander, it is easy to remove too much material due to its strength. In contrast, orbital sanders have the right amount of power if you are concerned about removing too much material.

2. Sanding Method

These sanders have a unique sanding mechanism. Belt sanders push sandpaper in a loop to quickly sand down the material. In contrast to other sanders, orbital sanders move the sandpaper in a circle while it is laid flat on the surface. Peel, stick, or Velcro systems are frequently used to fasten the sandpaper to the orbital sander.

3. Sandpaper Grit

The sandpaper used for sanders is also different. The simplest sanders are orbital ones because you can use almost any sandpaper on them as long as you can connect them to the machine. Belt sanders are moved in a loop, requiring a particular sandpaper. As a result, sandpaper for belt sanders is more expensive.

Read More: Orbital Sander Vs. Palm Sander

Belt Sanders Vs. Orbital Sanders: Which Is Best?

The needs and projects you have will determine the right sander for you. Belt sanders are ideally suited to large, flat-surface projects that demand a lot of sand power. Orbital sanders perform better for small, flat surface operations or around surfaces. The orbital sander is better if you are concerned that your hand is too sensitive for a belt sander.

CONCLUSION

In the end, having a belt and an orbital sander is helpful. This equipment is necessary, mainly if you perform many woodworking jobs and home remodelling works. However, if you have a large job, get a belt sander, and buy an orbital sander if you have little chores. Better yet, get both so you can handle a variety of tasks.