Coated abrasives are a popular product in the grinding industry due to their versatility and effectiveness. These abrasive products consist of a backing material such as paper, cloth or film, which is coated with abrasive grains such as aluminum oxide, silicon carbide or zirconia. This type of abrasive product is commonly used in industries such as metalworking, woodworking, automotive and aerospace.
One of the latest advancements in coated abrasives technology is the development of a new type of backing material known as a poly-woven fabric. This material features an interwoven pattern of polyester and nylon fibers, providing increased durability and tear resistance compared to traditional backing materials. The poly-woven fabric is particularly useful in heavy-duty grinding applications where more rigid backing is required to maintain the shape of the abrasive product.
Another development in the coated abrasives industry is the use of self-sharpening abrasive grains. These grains contain ceramic crystals that fracture and expose new, sharp edges during use, extending the life of the abrasive product and reducing grinding time. Self-sharpening abrasive grains are commonly used in applications that require high material removal rates and consistency in finish.
Additionally, advancements in abrasive grain bonding technology have led to the creation of hybrid abrasive products, which combine the benefits of multiple abrasive types in a single product. For example, a hybrid abrasive product may consist of a ceramic abrasive grain bonded to a backing material coated with a layer of aluminum oxide or silicon carbide abrasive. This combination offers increased cutting power and the ability to finely finish the material.
Finally, there has been a trend towards using water-based lubricants in conjunction with coated abrasives to reduce heat build-up and improve overall grinding performance. Water-based lubricants offer a number of benefits over traditional oil-based lubricants, including reduced smoke and odor, improved operator safety, and decreased environmental impact.
