The Delta Model 31-340 is a versatile 1" Belt / 8" Disc Sander designed for both woodworking and metal grinding applications. This robust workshop machine offers a combination of sanding capabilities, making it suitable for a wide range of tasks from fine finishing to heavy-duty material removal. Its dual-sanding surfaces allow for efficient processing of various materials including hard and soft woods, plastics, compositions, and metals.
Function Description
The Delta 31-340 operates with two primary sanding mechanisms: a 1-inch wide belt sander and an 8-inch diameter disc sander. The belt sander is ideal for tasks requiring linear sanding, such as deburring, sharpening, and general material removal. Its 3000 SFM (Surface Feet per Minute) belt speed is particularly effective for metal grinding and sharpening operations. The belt unit can be used with its platen for flat sanding, or the platen can be removed for contour sanding, polishing, or other specialized operations. The top sanding wheel of the belt unit can also be utilized for sanding inside curves when the side cover is removed, offering greater flexibility for intricate workpieces.
The 8-inch disc sander, operating at 1725 RPM, is designed for finishing tasks on various materials. It excels at shaping, smoothing, and squaring edges. The disc sander is particularly useful for achieving precise angles and smooth finishes on flat surfaces and outside curves. The combination of both belt and disc sanding capabilities in one machine provides a comprehensive solution for diverse sanding needs in a workshop environment.
Usage Features
The Delta 31-340 incorporates several features to enhance its usability and adaptability for different tasks.
- Adjustable Tables: Both the belt sander table and the disc sander table are adjustable. The belt sander table can be tilted and moved in or out, allowing for precise positioning relative to the sanding belt. It includes a positive stop for quick and accurate positioning at a 90-degree angle to the belt, which is crucial for most sanding operations. The disc sander table can be tilted up to 45 degrees, both up and down, providing flexibility for bevel sanding and other angled work. This adjustability is facilitated by locking handles that are spring-loaded and can be repositioned for convenience.
- Miter Gage: A miter gage is supplied with the sander and can be used on either the disc table or the belt table. This accessory allows for precise angle sanding, as it can be set up to 45 degrees right or left. This feature is invaluable for creating accurate bevels and angles on workpieces.
- Belt Tracking Adjustment: The belt tracking is adjustable to ensure the sanding belt runs true on the pulleys. A tracking knob allows the user to move the belt to the right or left, preventing it from running off the pulleys and ensuring consistent sanding performance. This adjustment is typically very slight, indicating a well-engineered system.
- Platen Adjustment and Removal: The platen on the belt sander, made of heavy steel, provides proper support for work during sanding. It can be adjusted to be almost touching the back of the sanding belt. For specialized operations like strapping or contour sanding, the platen can be easily removed by loosening a screw.
- Safety Features: The machine emphasizes safety with features like a switch that can be locked in the "OFF" position to prevent unauthorized use. This is achieved by removing the switch toggle, rendering the machine inoperable until the toggle is reinserted. Guards are in place for both the sanding disc and belt, as well as the pulleys, to protect the operator during use.
- Dust Collection: The sander is equipped with two dust chutes, one for the belt unit and one for the disc unit. These chutes have 1-1/4 inch I.D. openings, allowing for easy connection to a dust collection system. This feature is critical for maintaining a clean work environment and for mitigating health risks associated with wood and metal dust.
- Material Versatility: The machine is designed to handle both wood and metal products. When sanding metal, it is recommended to move the metal across the belt or disc and cool it when it becomes hot, for example, by dipping it in water. However, it is explicitly stated not to sand or polish magnesium due to fire hazards.
Maintenance Features
Maintaining the Delta 31-340 is straightforward, focusing on ensuring optimal performance and longevity.
- Abrasive Belt and Disc Replacement: Replacing abrasive belts and discs is a simple process. For belts, the side cover is removed, tension is released by pressing down on the tracking knob, and the old belt is removed from the pulleys. New belts are installed, ensuring correct directional orientation if indicated by an arrow on the belt, and then the side cover is replaced. For discs, the sanding disc table is removed, the old disc is peeled off, the disc plate is cleaned, and a new adhesive-backed disc is firmly pressed onto the plate.
- Cleaning: Regular cleaning is essential. The manual advises removing the protective coating from unpainted surfaces upon unpacking using a soft cloth moistened with kerosene, followed by applying a good quality household floor paste wax. Keeping the disc plate clean before applying a new sanding disc ensures proper adhesion.
- General Maintenance: The general safety rules emphasize keeping tools in top condition, which includes keeping them sharp and clean for best and safest performance. Following instructions for lubricating and changing accessories is also highlighted.
- Part Inspection: Before each use, operators are advised to check for damaged parts, ensuring guards and other components operate properly. This includes checking for alignment of moving parts, binding, breakage, and proper mounting. Any damaged parts should be repaired or replaced before resuming operation.
- Electrical Safety: The manual provides detailed grounding instructions and recommends inspecting the power cord for damage or wear, replacing it immediately if necessary. It also advises disconnecting the machine from the power source before servicing or changing accessories.
The Delta 31-340 is a robust and adaptable sanding machine, designed with user convenience and safety in mind, making it a valuable asset for various workshop tasks.
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