Coated Abrasives

ABRASIVE GRAINS

Aluminum Oxide (A) – A tough, blocky grain that can be used on a wide range of materials including steel, stainless, aluminum and wood.

Zirconia (ZA, EZ, TZA, ZP) – More durable and aggressive than aluminum oxide, as it maintains a sharp edge. A versatile option for steel, stainless, and aluminum.

Ceramic (SX) – Ceramic abrasives have been engineered to provide extreme durability and the fastest cutting action. They are ideal for hard metals and high nickel alloys.  The ceramic grain excels in high-pressure applications as this allows the abrasive to break down and self-sharpen.  This process also reduces heat buildup and discoloration.

Silicon Carbide (S) – Silicon carbide is a brittle crystal, which fractures easily and constantly exposes sharp edges. This also enables it to resist loading or clogging on softer, or gummy materials. Silicon carbide performs well on a number of difficult materials like aluminum, brass, bronze, titanium, plastics, fiber glass, concrete and stone.

BACKING MATERIALS

Cotton – Wears back easily and evenly, while dissipating heat from the work surface.

Polyester – Provides maximum durability and strength for demanding applications, but does not dissipate heat well, which can lead to discoloration of the surface.

Poly-cotton – Combines the strength of polyester with the cool wearing benefit of cotton for an excellent blend of both properties.

Paper – Lighter duty backing for hand sanding and fine finishing applications.

GRINDING AIDS

Several products are available with grinding aids which further enhance the performance of the abrasive grains.

Materials containing grinding aids should be used with light to moderate pressure to maximize their performance!

Our Ceramic (SX) and Treated Zirconia (TZA) abrasives contain a Grinding Aid which dissipates heat while increasing the cut rate on harder materials like stainless and alloys.

ZircPlus (ZP) abrasive contains a similar grinding aid which dissipates heat on harder metals, but also adds lubricity to resist loading on soft materials like aluminum.