A device for removing an abrasive disk from a rotary sander of the type having a disk-shaped sanding pad with upper and lower surfaces that are parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. The device includes a frame having a pair of elongated guide rails secured to the frame. Each guide rail has an elongated guide surface adapted to abut against the upper surface of the sanding pad on opposite sides of the sanding pad. At least one blade is secured to the frame so that the blade lies in a plane parallel to the guide surfaces and is spaced from the guide surfaces by the predetermined distance corresponding to the thickness of the sanding pad. In use, the sanding pad is moved along the guide rails by a robot so that the upper surface of the sanding pad slides along the guide surfaces. In doing so, the blade engages the sanding pad between its lower surface and its attached abrasive disk thus removing the abrasive disk from the sanding pad.