Operating instructions

Specific to Sanding Machines
5
consideration should be given to the removal of
rings and wristwatches if these are liable to be a
‘snag’ hazard.
Do not work with cutting/abrasive tools of any
description if you are tired, your attention is
wandering or you are being subjected to distraction.
Do not use the machine within the designated safety
areas of flammable liquid stores or in areas where
there may be volatile gases.
Check that sanding surfaces are still sufficiently
abrasive to carry out the work you intend. Sanding
belt cleaning sticks are an efficient method of
prolonging the life of the belts and discs and will also
maintain their operating performance.
Check that the belts or discs are undamaged;
torn edges can pick up on the workpiece and will
cause the medium to tear, often very rapidly with
accompanying sharp flapping edges.
Always offer the workpiece to the belt/disc so that
the motion carries the work against the restraining
surface i.e. the work stop or the table (use the left
hand side of the disc).
Do not press too heavily against the sanding surface,
all this will do is slow the sander down. Remember,
sanders work by removing small particles of material
quickly and heavy pressure works adversely to the
cutting process. Further, it will accelerate the rate
of ‘clogging’ of the abrasive surfaces, rendering the
machine less efficient.
If you are attempting to sand inside curves (over
the ‘tracking drum’) do not press at all, other than to
keep the workpiece in contact with the surface, any
pressure could upset the tracking geometry. As there
is no cushioning effect to the belt passing around the
drum, expect an added vibration and compensate
for it.
Sanding of certain types of timber may make the
fitting of dust extraction mandatory in order to
comply with the directives of the HSE. However, even
if it is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended that
you consider fitting dust extraction. It will certainly
reduce the level of dust and grit, and as it helps to
remove the waste quicker will certainly prolong the
longevity of the abrasive.
Above all, OBSERVE…. make sure you know what
is happening around you, and USE YOUR COMMON
SENSE.