Belt Sander Racing

Belt sander racing is an all-American sport created in the late 1980's in Washington state. Inspired by the sport, this exhibit involves two customized wired electric belt sanders propelling themselves, under their own power, down a wooden enclosed track. This track was customize built by Engineering House members to ensure this fun sport can be enjoyed by people safely indoors. Watch as our belt sanders race down the tracks and predict which one will win. Learn about the physics behind how belt sanders propel themselves forward and even find out how to safely make your own belt sander racer! This exhibit involves two customized wired electric belt sanders propelling themselves, under their own power, down a wooden enclosed track. The expected size of the track is 56' by 4', and incorporating a 3 foot radius in any direction for safety, meaning the entire footprint for the exhibit is 62' by 10'. This safety radius will be taped off and monitored. Safety features include emergency stops on the exhibit, and a wired unit that can be activated from a distance that cuts power to both sanders. Additionally, breakers are set such that once either sander passes a certain point in the track, power is cut. All wiring is fused at a safe level. In addition, 10 feet of unpowered track and padding will be added at the end of the track to ensure they are slowed safely. The track itself is constructed from wood, with sides that rise up to ensure that neither sander can leave the track.