Milwaukee M18 Fuel Cordless Belt Sander Targets Fast Material Removal
Many cordless tools on the market today are capable of replacing corded tools. Since cordless tools are more convenient than dealing with cords at each job site, it makes sense that professionals would want the corded level of performance they're used to in a cordless body. Milwaukee's M18 Fuel Belt Sander is the company's solution for replacing a corded belt sander. Check out the details to see if it has the features you need to cut the cord.
Milwaukee designed this belt sander with the professional in mind. While some cordless options opt for brushed motors, Milwaukee turned to its brushless PowerState motors for better performance and runtime. Whether you're a carpenter, a remodeler, or a serious DIYer, this cordless belt sander can replace your old 8 amp corded belt sander.
It features a variable speed dial with five different belt speed settings. Speeds range from 700 to 1,350 feet per minute surface, depending on the amount of material you are removing. It also has a lock button to reduce finger fatigue during prolonged use.
Milwaukee didn't give us an estimate of an exact running time. However, having some extra batteries on hand should give you enough trigger time for most jobs.
first impression
We got some hands-on time with this tool and immediately started working on some 3/4" plywood subfloors. Half expecting it to slow down a bit as I drilled, my eyes widened as I pushed harder and harder. Much like the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Brake Grinder, this tool won't bog down when you run it hard.
I used a 60 grit belt to remove about 1/4 inch of material from the work surface in just a few seconds. This sander is a beast! All in all, this tool is a great solution for short jobs where you want to cut the cord.
Milwaukee Cordless Sander Designs
ergonomics
Overall, I really like the look and feel of this belt sander. The main handle is slightly larger than your average cordless tool and is overmolded with textured rubber to help you maintain a solid grip while you work.
A cool feature is an adjustable pommel on the front. It doesn't require any tools to move when you move it forward or backward to get the best feel for the job at hand.
Dust removal
The Milwaukee 2832 also includes a dust collection system. On top of the integrated universal vacuum hose adapter, the tool comes with a multi-layer dist collection bag. This method of dust collection helps keep your work area tidy, collecting over 80% of dust during use.
Belt replacement and tracking
The tool-free belt tracking knob and tool-free belt replacement are easy and work really well on this sander. This sander's automatic belt tracking technology centers the sanding belt over the drive rollers, but it also has a manual adjustment knob for quick adjustments on the fly.
Belt replacement is easy and stress-free too! Simply pull the tension lever away from the tool to release pressure from the drive wheels and slide off the belt. Keep in mind that this sander is only compatible with 3×18 inch sanding belts.
Additional features
- Dual LED lights
- Compact design for working in tight spaces
Milwaukee M18 Fuel Cordless Sander Prices
The Milwaukee 2832-20 retails for $279 bare metal and $439 kit. In the box, you get an 80-grit sanding belt, a dust bag, and a universal vacuum adapter. Milwaukee backs your purchase with a 5-year limited warranty.
the bottom line
The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Cordless Belt Sander provides plenty of power for tough sanding jobs. The biggest hurdle you're likely to face, however, is runtime in a wider range of jobs. Pay extra for this cordless convenience, but professionals know that the right tool can make all the difference on the job site.
Specification
- Model: Milwaukee 2832-20
- Power source: Milwaukee 18V battery
- Length: 10.6 inches
- Width: 6.3 inches
- Height: 7.5 inches
- Weight: 7.8 lbs. (naked), 9.4 lbs. (with 5.0Ah battery)
- Belt Dimensions: 3" x 18"
- Minimum speed: 700 SFM
- Maximum speed: 1350 SFM
- Warranty: 5 years (tool), 3 years (battery)
- Price: $279 (bare), $439 (kit)