The first question we always ask if you are looking for a powerfile (also called Beltit or Dynafile) is ‘do you need air or electric?’
Question 1: Which Powerfile, Air or electric?
If you have a powerful air supply in your workplace then air can be a great option. They are economical to run, they have lots of torque and have relatively low maintenance costs ongoing. But… and there is always a but. Air driven powerfile tools are hungry on air usage and as soon as your air pressure drops they will lose power quickly. Our SH Beltit machine machine for example needs 20cfm of air at 90 psi, not ridiculous but the average portable air cylinder may struggle to maintain that volume of air. Electric machines on the other hand are consistent. Once they are turned on they will just work and the only question then is ensuring you have a machine designed to do the job you are doing.
Question 2: What Belt Speed is Best For My Application?
You can have the best abrasives and powerfile machine in the world but if it is running at the wrong speed then it just won’t work!! In real terms there is little you can do to control belt speed with an air tool. With electric machines you have the option of looking at fixed speed or variable speed machines.
For a more detailed summary of recommended abrasive speeds please look at our article entitled ‘For Professional Grinding and Finishing: Speed is Everything’. For stainless steel or any non-ferrous metals we always recommend variable speed. Speed control will make a big difference to the speed of working and the life of your abrasives.
