Hardwood and Softwood

How to Choose Abrasives for Wood Types?

Choosing the right abrasive involves stock removal, the grit size, abrasive material, and correct type of sanding machines. The goal is to get the best surface of the workpiece before the final finishing.

Abrasives for Hardwood

Hardwoods require tough and durable abrasives due to their high density.

• • Recommended Grits:
    • Start with P40 – P80 grits for correct thickness.
    • Use P120 – 150 grits for intermediate sanding.
    • Finish with P180 – P240 grits before applying the final finish.
  • Best Abrasive Materials:
    • P40 – Zirconia Alumina. More aggressive; good for heavy stock removal or large surfaces.
    • P40 – P150 Aluminium Oxide. For stock removal and intermediate sanding.
    • P180 – P240 Aluminium Oxide. Use extra sharp Alu grain type for best surface finish.
    • P240 – Silicon Carbide. For best surface finish. Used especially on veneer and cross sanding as last belt.

Abrasives for Softwood

Softwood is easier to sand but clogs the sanding belt quickly and you get an uneven surface if the wrong abrasive is used. Therefore, is Open or Extra open coated Abrasives recommended to use.

• • Recommended Grits:
    • Start with P40 – P80 grits for correct thickness.
    • Use P120 – 150 grits for intermediate sanding.
    • Finish with P180 – P240 grits before applying the final finish.
  • Best Abrasive Materials:
    • P40 – P80 Aluminium Oxide belt with Extra Open coating.
    • P100 – P150 Aluminium Oxide belt with Open or Extra Open coating for Stock removal and intermediate sanding.
    • P180 – P240 Silicon Carbide belt with Open coating for final finishing.

Selecting the right abrasive for hardwood or softwood isn’t just about grit—it’s about using the right material and method for the wood’s characteristics. Hardwoods demand tougher, more resilient Abrasives, while on softwoods you need more open coated Abrasives to prevent clogging of the sanding belts. Less clogging, better surface finishing. By choosing correct Abrasives and grit combination, you’ll save time, reduce waste, and achieve a superior results in every part of the sanding process.