Question (WOODWEB Member) :
I'm looking to add a used WB. I'm more concerned with fine sanding but will want a combo head so some calibration can be done. What info is important regarding wide vs narrow platens? Air or pneumatic platens, segmented platens, and multiple speed drive motors for the abrasive belts as well as regular vs vacuum conveyer tables?
Forum Responses
(Solid Wood Machining Forum)
From contributor T:
Several years ago I bought a Butfering 52" combi-head circa1986 (one belt with platen) for under $5000. Overall it was a great buy for general sanding (doors, flat stock etc.) It's pre-computer control, so not a lot to go wrong. It had an air-bladder but it didn't come with it to me. The graphite platen works fine. Meanwhile a colleague had bought a newer used machine with computer control (can't remember the brand) for about $25,000, which he thought was a great deal, since it probably cost 50 or 60 new as it was single head with the horizontal cross-belt. Overall he was out well over $30k and couldn't keep it running. He ended up finding a similar Butfering to mine, newer at circa early nineties, but with a vacuum bed and other features, and it's worked perfectly for him for both general purpose and fine veneer panel sanding. The other one still sits in the corner collecting dust.
