Which Powerfile Do I Need?

Powerfiles come with air or electric power sources, then you can have fixed or variable speed motors and fixed or variable arm options as well; it adds up to almost 20 different machine options. Below we have created a simple guide to help you select which powerfile you need.

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, powerfiles are hungry on air usage and as soon as your air pressure drops they will lose power quite quickly. Our SH Beltit machine machine for example needs 20cfm of air at 90 psi, not ridiculous but the average portable tank 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.

Question 3: Will I Need to Change the Belt Width?

For working on car body panel work. A single powerfile arm will almost certainly be all you need to deburr panels and dress edges. Building complex fabrications then the ability to change belt widths could make all the difference.

Question 4: How Aggressive is Your Application?

Sanding aluminum castings all day then you will need a high powered motor. We would also recommend you go with an air tool to prevent aluminum dust killing the electric motors! Shaping sheet metal profiles then a smaller and lighter tool will work just as well for you. Still unsure? Please give us a call. We will be only to happy to help you select the right tool for you.

Question 5: What belt sizes are used on powerfile machines?

There are a number of standard belt lengths for the different powerfile machines. 330mm, 457mm,, 520mm, 533mm, 540mm and 610mm. At AFS we can supply belts for every powerfile machine. The Beltit range of machines use belt sizes 457mm, 520mm, 533mm, 540mm and 610mm as standard. On the BF and SH range of machines with inter-changeable arms we supply 533mm arms unless another belt length is specifically requested.

I only need a fixed speed powerfile machine for occasional work: Look first at the Beltit BG range

Working on general steel applications where a decent power machine will be needed: Look first at the Beltit BF range

Grinding stainless steel or other more exotic materials: The Beltit SH range is almost certainly the right choice for you.