Conveyor Belt Tension and Tracking

2.Slightly loosen bearing bolt knobs. (An internal tooth lock washer is placed under the head of each bearing bolt to prevent tension rollers from dropping out of position if knobs are loosened slightly. If tension rollers do drop, simply raise to a position equal to that of the inboard end of the drum and slightly tighten knobs.)

3.With the bearing bolt knobs slightly loosened, raise drum adjustment lever to raise the outboard end of drum, or lower drum adjustment lever to lower the outboard end of drum.

4.After adjustment is made, re-tighten bearing bolt knobs and check drum alignment.

The drum adjustment lever is useful when sanding boards wider than the drum (see Figure 30). Here the drum alignment is critical and must be adjusted to exactly level to slighly high on the outboard end. Test alignment with scrap wood approximately 6” wide by 24” to 40” long. Run board through sander sideways so that end of board extends beyond end of drum. Rotate board 180° and sand the other end. If a ridge is visible due to the drum overlap, then raise outboard end of drum and test again until ridge is eliminated.

Tension and tracking adjustments may occasionally be necessary during break-in and normal operation to compensate for belt stretching.

Tension. To adjust the tension of the conveyor belt, first adjust the take-up screw nut (Figure

31)using the attached wrench. Do this on both sides of the conveyor to obtain approximately equal tension on both sides of the belt when taut. Insufficient belt tension will cause slippage of conveyor belt on the drive roller during sanding operation; the conveyor belt is too loose if it can be stopped by hand pressure applied directly to the top of the conveyor belt. Excessive belt tension can result in bent rollers, bent brackets, and/or premature wearing of the bushings or belt.

Tracking. Belt tracking adjustments are made while the conveyor belt is running. After the proper belt tension is obtained (see above), turn the conveyor on and set it at the fastest speed setting. Watch for a tendency of the conveyor belt to drift to one side of the conveyor. To adjust tracking, tighten the take-up screw nut on the side toward which the belt is drifting, and loosen the take-up screw nut on the opposite side an equal amount.

Figure 30

Figure 31

22-44 Pro specifications

The Jet Tools 22-44 Pro drum sander stands out as one of the leading machines in the woodworking industry, known for its exceptional performance and durability. Aimed at both professional woodworkers and serious hobbyists, this tool boasts a range of features that enhance efficiency and precision, making it a valuable addition to any workshop.

One of the primary features of the Jet 22-44 Pro is its powerful 1.75 HP motor. This motor ensures consistent and reliable operation, allowing users to tackle a variety of sanding tasks with ease. The machine operates at 1,800 RPM, providing quick and efficient material removal. The adjustable table height allows for a maximum sanding width of 22 inches, accommodating larger workpieces for versatility in projects.

In terms of technology, the Jet 22-44 Pro employs a unique, patented drum design that ensures even sanding across the entire surface. This design minimizes the risk of snipe, a common problem in sanders that can result in uneven finish on workpieces. The 44-inch long sanding drum provides ample surface area, which aids in achieving a flawless finish without the need for excessive passes.

The tool features an adjustable infeed and outfeed table, ensuring optimal material support and stability during sanding operations. This feature is particularly beneficial for larger boards, as it prevents warping and allows for more accurate sanding. Additionally, the integrated dust collection system enhances cleanliness by efficiently capturing dust and debris, promoting a healthier working environment.

The Jet 22-44 Pro is equipped with a micro-adjustable sanding drum, allowing users to make precise depth adjustments for different applications. This functionality makes it easy to switch between various grits without sacrificing accuracy. Furthermore, the machine’s sturdy construction and robust frame reduce vibration during operation, contributing to improved accuracy and reduced fatigue during prolonged use.

The user-friendly design of the Jet 22-44 Pro also includes safety features such as an emergency stop button and integrated overload protection. This ensures that the machine can be operated safely, with features in place to prevent damage to both the tool and the user.

In summary, the Jet Tools 22-44 Pro drum sander combines power, versatility, and advanced technology to deliver an outstanding finishing tool for woodworkers. Its robust motor, unique drum design, and user-friendly features make it a top choice for anyone looking to enhance their woodworking capabilities.