Sandpaper is a type of paper with abrasive particles attached to it, which is used to smooth the surface of an object, remove attachments on the surface of an object (such as old paint), or increase friction. Sandpaper is divided into different numbers according to different degrees of roughness to suit various uses.
In addition, sandpaper can be divided into many types, including emery paper, artificial emery paper, glass sandpaper, etc., each of which has its specific use. Next, let's take a look at how to choose sandpaper!
Look at the grain size
The grain size of sandpaper refers to the size of the abrasive particles on its surface. The finer the grain size, the less wear on the surface. Generally, the finer the grain size of sandpaper, the finer the grinding effect. The grain size of sandpaper is expressed in "mesh". The larger the mesh number, the higher the number of abrasive particles per unit area, the smaller the abrasive particles, and the finer the sandpaper grain size.Conversely, the smaller the number, the larger the abrasive particles and the rougher they are. Common sandpaper grain sizes include 40-50 mesh, 60-100 mesh, 120-220 mesh, etc. Sandpapers of different grain sizes are suitable for different grinding needs. When choosing sandpaper, you should choose the appropriate grain size according to the condition of the surface to be treated.
Look at the material
Abrasive is the main grinding part of sandpaper. Common abrasives include aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, diamond, etc. Abrasives of different materials have different hardness and cutting force, which will affect the grinding effect and service life of sandpaper.
Aluminum oxide abrasive has higher hardness and cutting force, suitable for grinding materials such as metal and wood; silicon carbide abrasive has higher hardness and is suitable for grinding hard materials such as ceramics and glass; diamond abrasive is one of the hardest natural materials, with extremely high wear resistance and high temperature resistance, suitable for processing ceramics, glass, cemented carbide and other materials.
Look at the purpose
Different sandpapers are suitable for different materials and processing requirements. For example, metal sandpaper is suitable for grinding and polishing metal surfaces, sponge sandpaper is suitable for grinding and polishing of various materials, etc.
Tips for using sandpaper
When using sandpaper, the surface should be kept clean to give full play to the sanding effect of sandpaper. Keep the same direction when sanding to avoid scratches. For large-area sanding, a belt sander or electric sander can be used to improve efficiency.
Maintenance of sandpaper
To extend the service life of sandpaper, you can clean it and dry it after use, and avoid direct sunlight and high temperature environment. When the sandpaper is severely worn or loses its polishing effect, it should be replaced with new sandpaper in time.
Safe use of sandpaper
When using sandpaper, pay attention to safety, wear protective gloves and glasses, avoid contact with skin and inhalation of dust. At the same time, you should also choose products that meet environmental protection standards to reduce pollution to the environment.
