No hard and fast rule can be set down as to what coated abrasive products will give the optimum performance in a particular application: however, a basic understanding of coated abrasives will allow a product to be chosen from which a test program should be initiated.

You should determine:

Above analysis should allow type of grain and coating to be selected – i.e.:

Initial stock to be removed will decide the initial grade to use and the required finish the choice of the final grade.

The intermediate grades if required should be chosen so that the previous grit scratch pattern can be removed in one pass.

A correct grit sequence will allow maximum value to be obtained from the coated abrasive product.

Usually a grit sequence for a particular application and a particular material is determined by setting up a test program.

If the work is flat, paper backing should be the material chosen unless there is the possibility of the backing being snagged or torn.

If the work is curved or shaped usually Cloth is the best product.

Where high tensions are required use Cloth.

The amount of work to be done, stock to be removed, finish required, cost of labor will usually decide whether application should be by hand or machine.

If the work cannot be taken to the machine then some type of portable sander may be necessary.

Use of jigs, moulds, platen, etc. should also be decided if it will make the sanding job less difficult – less costly and achieve the desired results.