Building a belt sander

[professore_au]

I need some advice and possible options. I want to build my own belt sander using a 72" belt. My choice of this size belt is I think it is a good compromise to ensure the belt runs cooler and will last longer. However, it is still in the wish list category as I am not sure what size pullies to use and whether to build using sizes of square tube that fir inside one another or to fabricate it in MDF and Timber. I prefer steel but am open to be convinced of the alternatives. I am a newby and eager to learn. Thanks and cheers

 

[Ian]

@Retired posted a very detailed homemade belt sander followup, which I've moved to the "Projects" section as it was so detailed. The posts that were made in reply to this thread are now located here, so it's easier to find:

https://www.diy-forums.com/threads/homemade-belt-sander-and-grinder.289308/