The Difference Between Metal Belt Sanders and Grinders

One question that confuses many metalworkers, both new and experienced, is: what differentiates a belt sander from a belt grinder? Both are capable of performing similar tasks, leading to the false impression that fabrication shops need only one of these tools.

In truth, there are a lot of similarities between the two metalworking tools. However, enough distinctions exist to separate one category from the other.

At Penn Tool Co., we’ve been grinding and sanding metal workpieces for almost 55 years! In this article, our metalworking experts take a closer look at the differences between metal belt sanders and metal belt grinders.

What is the Difference Between Sanders and Grinders?

Metal Belt Sanders

The primary use of a belt sander in a workshop is to shape, smooth, and finish the workpiece.

Sandpaper rotates on a disc, which you hold against a piece to wear away its surface.

Belt sanders comes in a wide variety of sizes to ensure that you and your workshop are equipped for many types of materials. And remember, these metalworking tools work best when mounted on a bench or another flat surface.

Best of all, you can change the grit size of the sandpaper. This empowers you to make adjustments, as necessary, on both the machine and the workpiece.

Metal Belt Grinders

Conversely, metal belt grinders remove material from an item so that you can produce a desired finish on your metal workpiece. The belt of the grinder is encrusted with abrasive metals, which strips the piece as they come in contact.

This process is especially helpful for applying a clean look to a metal surface. Moreover, your control of the metalworking equipment enables you to apply a unique finish to the workpiece.

In addition to finishing, these versatile tools are also used for deburring and stock removal. Finally, there are several kinds of belts, from wide belts to stroke belts, which further enhances its functionality in a metalworking shop.

Metal Belt Grinders vs. Belt Sanders: The Differences in Summary

These two machines do have many things in common, but there are many more differences between metal belt sanders and grinders. While a sander works for multiple different materials, a belt grinder’s primary purpose is metals.

Another variance is that, whereas belt sanders use sandpaper, the grinder uses metallic abrasives to perfect the piece. Finally, the most significant difference is that a belt sander smooths the workpiece, while a grinder sharpens it.

This makes belt grinders and belt sanders two of the most practical tools in any fabrication shop. Among them, you can complete a diverse array of tasks, and on a range of materials, ensuring that your end product is a perfect match to your initial design.

Solve the Grinders vs. Sanders Debate with Penn Tool Co.

At Penn Tool Co., we are a proud supplier of industrial belt sanders and belt grinders. In fact, we’ve equipped fabrication and metalworking shops, both large & small, and all over the world!

We also carry thousands of other tools and industrial supplies, so we’re certain to have the perfect equipment for your workshop. To find the metal belt grinder and metal belt sander that you need to get the job done right, reach out to our team today.