The Difference Between a Wide Belt Sander and a Drum Sander

When it comes to sanding wood, there are two major types of machines that can help you get the job done. There are wide belt sanders and drum sanders, each with its own unique set of benefits. The abrasive specialists at Red Label Abrasives share their insights on the differences between these two types of sanders, as well as some key factors to consider when making a decision on which machine to use.

The most popular sanders among woodworkers are probably wide belt sanders. These work great for smoothing out a board and can be used on both horizontal and vertical surfaces. They also tend to be relatively affordable and easy to operate. However, there are a few cases where a drum sander may be a better option.

Drum sanders are more specialized in their operation, as they focus on the finishing details of a board rather than changing its overall structure. They do this by slowly grinding away the surface of a board at regular depth passes until it is at its desired finish. While this type of sander can be difficult to use for beginners due to its slow and methodical process, it is ideal for smoothing out dust nibs or small imperfections left over from planing or for creating a much more even surface.

In addition, drum sanders are typically smaller than wide belt sanders and tend to be more compact and portable. They are also easier to maintain, as there are fewer moving parts than their larger counterparts. This makes them a good choice for anyone who wants to save time but still enjoy the high quality of work that a planer can produce.

A drum sander is also ideal for those who need to sand narrow pieces of wood or panels. While I have used a drum sander in the past, it always seemed to struggle when trying to sand wider width components and panels. The resulting quality of the boards and panels never looked as good as I would have liked and it was often more difficult to achieve a uniform thickness than using a planer.

Ultimately, whether or not you decide to purchase a drum sander for your shop is a personal decision. While I have found it to be a very useful tool for my needs, it’s not one that every woodworker will need or want. However, for those who do need a drum sander or would like to have the option available, there are a number of practical uses that make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re ready to take your sanding projects to the next level, be sure to check out this great drum sander from WEN! This unit features an adjustable feed speed to accommodate different material density, a 4-inch dust port that connects to your collection system, and a 2-year warranty. Plus, it’s backed by our nationwide network of skilled service technicians, a friendly customer support line, and a vast selection of sandpaper grits.