Want perfectly smooth 3D prints? A belt sander might seem like a shortcut, but proceed with caution! While it's true a belt sander can rapidly remove material, it's also incredibly easy to overdo it, especially with softer filaments like PLA.
Think of it like this: a belt sander is a power tool, not a detail tool. It's best suited for roughing out large imperfections, like support structures or layer lines on large, flat surfaces. Use it sparingly and always with a very fine grit belt.
Keep the print moving to avoid overheating and melting the plastic. High speeds can generate a lot of friction and ruin your print in seconds. Remember, less is more! After using the belt sander, follow up with hand sanding using progressively finer grits for a truly polished finish. Mastering the belt sander takes practice, so experiment on scrap prints first. Good luck, and happy smoothing!
