G0644 15" Open-End Wide Belt Sander -23-
Depth of Cut
Recommended maximum depth of cut
.......................... Approximately 1⁄64" (0.016")
The optimum depth of cut will vary based on
the type of wood, feed rate, and sandpaper grit.
Attempting to remove too much material can
cause jamming, wood burning, rapid paper wear,
paper tearing, poor finish, or belt slippage.
Under most conditions, the sanding depth should
not exceed 1⁄64" or 0.016" (approximately 2⁄3 turn
of the elevation handwheel) for each pass. Each
full turn of the elevation handwheel raises/lowers
the sanding belt approximately 0.025" from the
conveyor belt.
When properly adjusted, the depth of cut safety
bar (see Figure 22) is an excellent tool for setting
the first depth of cut.
conveyor feed rate
Position the workpiece and sanding cabinet so
that the bottom of the safety bar just touches the
workpiece. This will set the sanding belt approxi-
mately 1⁄64" lower than the workpiece. Then rotate
the elevation handwheel one full turn clockwise to
raise the sanding belt high enough so that the first
pass will take off any high spots. For additional
passes, rotate the elevation handwheel 2⁄3 of turn
clockwise to lower the sanding belt approximately
1⁄64" or 0.016".
Figure 22. Depth of cut safety bar.
depth of cut
Conveyor Speed
The conveyor speed dial (see Figure 21) adjusts
the feed rate from 5–17 FPM. The correct speed
to use depends on the type of stock you are using
(hardwood vs. softwood) and the stage of finish
for the workpiece.
As a general rule, a slower feed rate will sand
the surface smoother, but runs the risk of burning
the wood; a faster feed rate will remove material
faster, but runs the risk of overloading the motor.
Use trial-and-error to determine the correct feed
rate for your operation.
Figure 21. Conveyor speed dial.