FAQ: Belts
What are the measurements for an abrasive belt?
The dimensions are listed as follows: width by length.
I don’t see my desired belt size, grit, or backing. Do you produce special or customized belts?
With sizes ranging from 1/8″ wide to 600″ in length in multiple grains and backing, we can deliver nearly any belt needed for your required application. ARC Abrasives’ custom services and excellent application knowledge make it easy to deliver solutions directly to your shop floor.
How do I measure the size of a belt?
Belts are measured in two dimensions always stated in the width of belt first x length of belt second (ie 4×24 is 4 inches wide by 24 inches long).
What are the defining properties of a belt?
Belt size, grain size, grain type, backing type, and backing weight.
What types of abrasive grains are there?
The different grains are aluminum oxide (AO), silicon carbide (SiC), ceramic, zirconia, and zirconia alumina.
What types of backings are there?
Paper and cloth backings are available for belts.
What types of paper backings are there?
Paper backings are offered from A weight through F weight.
What types of cloth backings are there?
The different backings are cotton, polyester, and poly cotton.
What is the difference between the different paper backings?
Flexibility and durability are the differences. A weight is the most flexible and least durable, and F weight is the least flexible and most durable.
What is the difference between cloth backings?
Flexibility, durability and water resistance.
What backings are waterproof?
Polyester and poly cotton are waterproof.
What information is on the back of a belt?
The back of a belt should have the grain size and product number information.
How does grain size affect finish?
The larger the number (grain size), the rougher the finish.
Where do I use ceramic grains?
You would use ceramic on stainless steel or other high alloy metals for removing material.
Where do I use zirconia grains?
You use zirconia on metals, as well with less cut and performance versus ceramic grains.
What is the best general purpose abrasive grain?
Aluminum oxide is offered in very coarse and very fine grain sizes for a broad array of finishes and general purpose applications.
What belt should I use for woodworking?
Cloth or paper backed aluminum oxide open coat materials work well on wood.
