Coated Abrasives Products

Technical Information:

The term “coated abrasive” indicates how the abrasive is bonded to each product. Coated abrasive products consist of a backing material such as paper, cotton or polyester cloth, film, or vulcanized fiber. To make a jumbo roll of coated abrasives, an initial ‘make or base’ coat of resin is applied to the backing. The abrasive grain is electrostatically applied onto the base coat surface, to ensure the ratio of coverage and the grain is positioned properly. The second ‘top or size’ coating of resin is applied to lock in the abrasive particles.

Additional coatings are available for specific applications to maximize performance.  A few of the common coatings include grinding aid to prevent heat build-up, stearate to prevent material loading, or anti-static to reduce dust build up.

The jumbo rolls of coated abrasives products are then converted into: sanding belts, discs, sheets, rolls, and specialty products like flap wheels, flap discs, cartridge rolls and quick change discs.

The most common grains used are aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, zirconia alumina, and ceramic. Additionally, super abrasives such as industrial diamonds are used for more specialized applications.

Coated abrasives are created with a wide range of grit sizes as well. Larger grit-sized products like 24 – 60 grit are best for stock removal and deburring.  The 80-220 grits are commonly used for blending, surface prep and graining. Grits 280 – 3000 grit, will accomplish smooth surface and pre-polish finishes.

SurfacePrep represents all major manufacturers of coated abrasives including: 3M Abrasives, VSM Abrasives, Norton Abrasives, Klingspor Abrasives, Mirka Abrasives, and more.