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Coated abrasives consist of minerals bonded to a backing with glue or resin, and can be natural or synthetic. They come in various shapes and sizes and are used for a multitude of purposes. The backing can be made of paper, fabric or a combination of materials. Adhesive coatings can be applied in different combinations to obtain different performance characteristics. An electromagnetic process is used to apply the mineral to a fabric backing. Improved abrasives, adhesives and backings are continuously being developed.
A coated abrasive consists of a mineral bonded to a backing with glue or resin. The mineral can be natural or synthetic, while the support can be canvas or paper. An electrostatic charge is used to apply the mineral to the substrate. Heat and pressure are typically involved in the manufacturing process of a coated abrasive.
Sandpaper is a common example of a coated abrasive. Generic abrasive products are available in sheets, rolls, belts and discs. Heavy and light discs are used for smoothing and shaping metal or wood. Abrasive products are manufactured in a variety of shapes and sizes for a multitude of purposes.
Synthetic or natural minerals can be used to make a coated abrasive. Garnet is a natural abrasive commonly used in woodworking trades. Natural polishing minerals include emery and crocus. Silicon carbide and aluminum oxide are among the most widely used synthetic minerals.
Mineral particles are classified according to size. The grit number designation system evaluates the roughness of the product. Sizes range from 12, which is the coarsest, to the finest grade of 600. Higher numbers indicate finer particles.
The backing used to produce a coated abrasive can be of a single type or a combination of up to three materials. Paper is graded by weight and can range from light and flexible to strong and durable. You can use fabrics and textiles such as cotton or polyester. The fiber is often used for smoothing records and drums. A combination of these materials can be used to make specialty abrasives.
Glues and resins are generally used to bind the mineral abrasive to its substrate. Two layers of binding agents are applied. The first layer bonds the mineral to the substrate, while the second locks the process together. The most common type of coating, where the entire surface of the substrate is coated with the abrasive, is known as closed coating.
The adhesive coatings can be applied in different combinations in order to obtain different performance characteristics. Glue applied over glue allows for smoother finishes. The resin on the glue provides better heat resistance. Resin on resin produces the hardest, most heat resistant abrasive.
An electromagnetic process is used when applying the mineral to a fabric backing. In this process, the fabric is first coated with glue or resin. An electric field is produced which gives the support and the mineral opposite charges. The abrasive is attracted to the backing and the adhesive holds it together. The final adhesive block is then applied.
Many other variants of coated abrasive products are available, as well as various means of production. Improved abrasives, adhesives and backings are continuously being developed. The uses of abrasive products are virtually unlimited.
