Top 5 Best Sanding Belts for Metal (2024 Review) – MySafetyTools

Sanding belts are one of the most common and popular tools in the abrasive industry. As a craftsman, the time will come when you’ll eventually have to consider buying a new belt sander or replace the belt if you already have one.

The question is, as a metalworker, how will you find the best sanding belt from so many options? Although these tools are not expensive, you need to find aluminum oxide sanding belts for soft metals and zirconia alumina for hard metals like cast iron and stainless steel.

To make your searching process a little easier and simpler, we’ve reviewed today’s top sanding belts and championed the best-performers. Go through our in-depth review and see which ones meet your needs.

Sanding Belts for Metal: Our Top 5 Reviews

01 M-jump 24 Pack 1 x 30 inch Aluminum Oxide Sanding Belt Kit (Editor’s Choice)

Why it stands out to us

The M-jump 24 Pack 1 x 30-inch Aluminum Oxide Sanding Belts have truly outdone themselves in terms of versatility and durability. The fantastic sharpness of the grains proved to be phenomenal while working on any kind of stuff made of wood, glass, plastic, stone or non-ferrous metals. The anti-static and anti-clogging properties are superb and the load resistance is an added bonus. They come in a sophisticated shade of red and offer an immensely reasonable price.

Our experience with M-jump

• The belts come as a 24 in one set with a wide range of grit selections. The color is a vibrant yet elegant shade of red and the price is incredibly attractive.
• These highly versatile belts work on not just non-ferrous metals but also on glass, wood, aluminum, plastic and stone and came as the best all-round choice.
• We sanded several huge blocks of wooden tabletops without any issue and we were in awe to witness the efficiency and durability. Even the lowest grit was super sharp and worked like magic.
• We have struggled with polishing stone slabs before. When we brought the M-jump, it took a 180-degree turn. The stone slabs we worked on ended up with super smooth mirror finish using the finest grit and we were beyond happy.
• Not just big stuff, we also used them for grinding knives and handles and other smaller, delicate things made of non-ferrous metals and they did an impressive job.
• There was no clogging even when we sanded some oily wood. The anti-static property is splendid as is the load resistance.
• The seams are super smooth but not thin enough to make the belts break and definitely not thick enough to cause vibrations and awkward bumping sounds when in operation.

What we didn’t like

• These belts clog if you work on the slightest wet surface.

What could be improved

• They could be made moisture resistant.

Our recommendations

• These belts are sharp so start with a gentle application until you get used to them.

Make sure whatever you’re working on is completely dry to prevent clogging.

Specifications

Pros

• All-purpose use
• Washable
• No clogging
• Smooth seams
• Affordable
• Attractive color

Cons

• Takes time to get used to
• Not enough moisture resistance

02 S SATC Sanding Belts 4×36-Inch Sanding Belt

Why it stands out to us

The S SATC sanding belts are the epitome of tool sharpeners and they come as a set of 12, with varied grits. The durability would leave you in an awe and the fact that they work on several types of materials is a huge advantage. You would be able to use them for a wide range of grinding works and believe it or not, they won’t break under extreme pressure. You get all of these at a super attractive price.

Our experience with S SATC

• The 12 pack assortment of six grits, two for each is an absolute win for the money. We could use the rough grits for severely damaged stuff and then switch to the finer ones for more elusive results.
• Due to the resin over resin bond, these belts have outstanding durability. We used them for sharpening all sorts of tools, be it kitchen knives or axes, they showed the same amount of efficiency from the first tool to the last.
• The heat and moisture resistance were top notch and we had no issues sanding for an extended period of time.
• We did heavy duty honing on large tools but the seams were so strong with expert crafting that the belts never broke under pressure.
• These supreme sanding belts are the paragon of versatility, working on a wide range of materials- stainless steel, wood, aluminum, glass, fiberglass, plastic, rubber and non-ferrous metals.
• The price is extremely reasonable and significantly lower than a lot other brands out there.

What we didn’t like

• The seams, when in touch with wood, create vibrations and a loud sound.

What could be improved

• The seams could be thin enough to prevent the sound but with enough thickness so that the belts don’t break.

Our recommendations

• Check the rotation direction of the machine and place the belts accordingly for safe sanding.

Specifications

Pros

• Great honing properties
• Durable
• Heat and moisture resistant
• Versatile
• Affordable

Cons

• Overly thick seams

03 POWERTEC 110680 4 x 36 Inch Sanding Belts

Why it stands out to us

The Powertec 110680 sanding belts are an excellent example of Aluminum Oxide sanding belts with an appealing price for a 10 in one pack. They’re particularly great for knife making and sharpening and we couldn’t help but be ecstatic about sanding both ferrous and non-ferrous metals. The durability is mind-blowing and the moisture resistance is an added bonus.

Our experience with Powertec 110680

• The ten-in-one pack comes with an incredibly attractive price. There are color options too, featuring ten beautiful and elegant shades or red.
• These miracle belts basically work on both ferrous and non-ferrous metals we’ve applied them on and they never clogged at all.
• We were so happy that we could use them on several different materials such as wood, fiberglass, rubber, aluminum, bones, shells, plastic and metals and we never had any issues.
• The highlight amongst our experiences was the knife making. The stunning precision that these belts showed in grinding, smoothing and polishing small and difficult areas left us in awe.
• The double resin coat provided remarkable durability and the ones we bought several months ago still work as they did the first time we used them.
• The uniform and evenly spread grit is fantastic and there’s a wide range of numbers starting from 40 and reaching up to 400 for various types of uses.
• The belts are exceptionally strong and we never had any of ours broken due to grinding pressure.
• Even though they’re not meant for wet works, they’re moisture resistant.

What we didn’t like

• The strongly stitched seams made a bumpy sound while working.

What could be improved

• The seams could be thinner to prevent the bumping and thick enough to not cause the belt to break.

Our recommendation

• Even though it’s moisture resistant, it’s better to avoid wet work.

Specifications

Pros

• Affordable
• Great for knife-making
• Works on all types of wood
• Moisture-resistant
• Several grit options
• Variety of colors

Cons

• Thick seams

04 Sackorange 4 x 36 Inch High Performance Silicon Carbide Sanding Belts

Why it stands out to us

The remarkably versatile Sackorange sanding belts are our ultimate Silicon Carbide choice. The six-in-one-pack product with a variety of grit options is truly incredible considering the reasonable price. You can sand glass, plastics, stones and non-ferrous metals and what not with these elegant lookers. The outstandingly satisfying surface finishing and the marvelous precision handling smaller tools got us completely bewildered.

Our experience with the Sackorange Silicon Carbide

• These sanding belts come with a variety of grid numbers that gives you the option to use them according to your needs. The grid range starts from 120 for lighter works and the highest one is 1000 for fantastic polish works.
• We used them to sharpen out metallic blades and the 1000 grip practically brought about awe striking mirror finishes. We were pleased to see how it renovated all our old and rusty blades, without any sign of rough edges, even the smallest ones such as kitchen knives that require utmost precision.
• We needed to shape and smoothen the wood we were working on and we were content with the results.
• One of the best things about these Silicon Carbide belts is versatility. We could sand glass, stone, granite, plastics, cement and composites along with metals without any iron.
• The waterproofing made it easier for us to work on both dry and wet material and the bi-directional tape joints were an added advantage.
• The anti-clogging stearate made our sanding sessions easier and we couldn’t help but fall in love with the smooth flawless polish the finest grit belt brought upon.
• Thanks to the double raisin layer, the durability is a standout and we were delighted to see ours working effectively after months of use.

What we didn’t like

• The belt edges were a bit rough.
• The grit numbers weren’t labeled on them.

What could be improved

• The belt edges could be finer.
• They could be labeled according to their grits.

Our Recommendations

• Use the rough grits for big blocks and save the finer grits for polishing.

Specifications

Pros

• Waterproof
• Durable
• Affordable
• Several grit choices
• Versatile

Cons

• Rough edges
• No grit labels

05 4 X 36 Inch Metal Grinding Zirconia Sanding Belts 40, 80, 120 Grits, 3 Pack Assortment

Why it stands out to us

The Red Label sanding belts with three pack assortment is an excellent Zirconia choice for metal cutting, shaping, honing and stock removal. The durability is incredible and the price is extremely reasonable. Ideal for both iron and non-iron substances, these belts are an absolute delight and the bidirectional joints are an added advantage, helping you to run them in any direction you want.

Our experience with Red Label Zirconia

• The metal cutting ability is outstanding and the price is unbelievably reasonable.
• The durability is a stand out. We have been constantly using them to clean stainless steel tools once a week for seven months but they’re nowhere near wearing out.
• The grit might not be super fine but these fast working belts can even sharpen knives, chipper blades and even blades that are ¼” thick.
• The three in one pack is a very attractive offer with three different grits and totally worth your money.
• These wet and dry work belts can be used on both ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
• Some of us have used them only for cutting and shaping metal for a few months now, but it seemed as though they were going to last forever.
• The anti-clogging feature decreased heat production and the double coating enhanced durability. They’re designed with bi-directional tape joints so we could run them in any direction.
• Along with sharpening blades, the metal grinding and weld removing abilities are excellent and the belts stayed in their place while working with the sander.
• Thanks to them, we could cut, shape and hone metal tools without any issues. The stock removing process became surprisingly easy.

What we didn’t like

• The grit numbers were low and can’t give you a finer surface.

What could be improved

• The grit particles could be increased for a better finish.

Our recommendation

• Use it only on rougher surfaces and for heavy work. Don’t use them for a surface finish.

Specifications

Pros

• Durable
• Affordable
• Bi-directional running
• Anti-clogging
• Great for both ferrous and non-ferrous metals
• Suitable for both wet and dry works

Cons

• Not suitable for finishing

Metal Sanding Belt Buyer’s Guide: Things to Keep In Mind

• Metal type

Every metal has their own unique properties and depending on these, you need to choose your sanding belt. For example, Silicon Carbide is used on non-ferrous and soft materials such as Aluminum and brass where Zirconia Alumina is used on stainless steel and tough metals.

• Purpose

The belt type also depends on the kind of operation you plan to do. If you’re blending welds, you’d need Aluminum oxide for most metals but Zirconia Alumina for stainless steel. But the hard to grind ones would require Ceramic Alumina.

• Grit number

The number of grit determines the belt’s ability to sand smoothly. Grit is the number of particles per square inch and the higher the number, the smoother the result after sanding.

• Belt life

In several cases, more than one abrasive can meet your requirements. In that case, go with the one that has a longer belt life on average so you don’t need to replace it frequently.

• Cost

The price range for sanding belts is……. Ceramic Alumina belts cost more than the others but have a longer lifespan.

• Ask an expert

Consult an abrasive expert if you are an amateur or completely clueless. It would save you time, energy and money.

Types of Sanding Belts – Choosing the Right Sanding Belt

• Aluminum Oxide

Known for its durability and versatility, it works on all types of metal and hardwood and is a reddish brown resin bonded abrasive that also has split resistant joints.

• Silicon Carbide

Suitable for both wet and dry application, this one is perfect for heavier works. They can be applied on marble, glass, fiberglass, plastic, rubber and materials that don’t contain iron.

• Ceramic Alumina

These belts are fast cutting and instant cooling ones with resin coats. The ceramic sanding belts can be used for aluminum castings and chrome steel. They’re great for aerospace-grade titanium alloys too

• Zirconia Alumina

The closed-coated, resin-bonded belts are abrasive. Zirconia grains are self-sharpening and really aggressive and so they’re compatible with heavy machines. They’re perfect for scribing hard metal, stainless steel and hardwood.

• Garnet

Made from a natural mineral called garnet, this belt has the smoothest finishing amongst all the types. This is why it’s the best choice for product finishes.

Tips to Using Sanding Belts

• Always keep your belt sanders clean, either with metal or with a rubber cleaner stick for sanding.
• Wear protective glasses, a respirator mask and hearing protection so the dust doesn’t get in your eyes, ears and trachea.
• Check the roller machine for bumps so you don’t get an uneven sanding.
• Check the clamp while using a power hand sander or else you’d get non-linear patterns on the surface.
• Adjust the speed depending on the size of the area you’re working on. Lower speed makes it easy to maneuver where higher speed makes larger areas less time consuming.
• Mark the areas that you want to sand with a pencil for precision.
• Always try to sand a surface that is flat.
• Side to side sanding is harmful for the belt and the machine. So always sand from forward to backward.