Information abrasives
Traditional abrasives
Sanding materials on flexible backing – sandpaper and emery cloth
Traditional abrasives
Structure of traditional abrasives
Traditional abrasives like sandpaper and sanding cloths have a layered structure, allowing precise control over technical properties and final quality. A typical abrasive has four or five layers:
Base
– the bottom layer; its choice determines flexibility and strength.
Base glue binding
– applied to the backing.
Grit
– spread over the adhesive, with sharp edges oriented upwards; the grain material defines suitable applications.
Size coat
– secures the grains firmly.
Grinding
aids
– optional top layer to reduce dust build-up and heat.
Knowlegde
Antistatic Technology
During sanding, abrasive dust becomes positively charged, while the machine, belt, and workpiece are negatively charged. This is strongest with wood, polyester, paints, and varnishes, causing dust to stick and making vacuuming difficult.
Antistatic sandpaper prevents static buildup, allowing easy dust extraction for cleaner, safer, and more efficient sanding.
Antistatic sandpaper prevents static buildup, allowing easy dust extraction for cleaner, safer, and more efficient sanding.
Why it matters
- The abrasive belt has a longer lifespan. As it does not get clogged up so quickly, the grain retains its abrasive capacity better.
- A finer finish can be achieved
- Lower maintenance and energy costs
- Safer, more comfortable working environment
All paper abrasive belts supplied by Cibo are perfected with our antistatic technology.
Discover our antistatic products
Knowlegde
Grinding aids:
How they boost abrasive performance
How they boost abrasive performance
Grinding aids are small but powerful tools in the sanding process. Their benefits are threefold:
- Reduce Heat: Minimize friction to keep temperatures down during sanding
- Prevent Clogging: Stop abrasive grains from becoming blocked with material
- Enhance Performance: Improve the cutting efficiency and lifespan of your abrasive
Zinc Stearate
- Applied above the top adhesive layer, this coating reduces friction in the contact zone
- Result: Less clogging, lower heat, and smoother sanding
Chemical Coatings
- Typically potassium- or sodium-based minerals.
- Can be incorporated into the top adhesive or applied as a separate third layer.
- Function: Limit heat, prevent contamination, and maximize abrasive yield.
In short: Grinding aids keep your sanding process cooler, cleaner, and more efficient so your abrasives last longer and perform better.
Choosing a weld
The quality of a finish is determined to a large extent by the right choice of weld.
Overlap-ST
- Standard overlap weld for paper backing.
- Maintains even thickness for a smooth finish.
- Ideal for general sanding tasks.
Overlap-EX
- Extra-thick overlap weld for cloth backing.
- Provides durability for heavy-duty sanding.
- Best suited for rough surfaces and extended use.
BB
- Basic butt joint for paper or cloth backing.
- Flat, even finish without extra thickness.
- Suitable for general-purpose sanding.
BB-ZZ
- Interlocked butt joint reinforced with tape.
- Extra strength for fragile or delicate applications.
- Works well on thin glass, ceramics, and fine finishes.
BB-EX
- Extra-reinforced butt joint for heavy-duty use.
- Maintains joint integrity under high stress.
- Perfect for long sanding runs and tough materials.
BB-SO
- Butt joint with slotted overlap for flexibility.
- Reduces stress points for uneven surfaces.
- Recommended for curved or contoured sanding.
Rapid stock removal
High machining capacity
Slow stock removal
Lower machining capacity
Rapid stock removal VS slow stock removal
Learn how to select and apply abrasives correctly to achieve optimal performance and finish for every material and task.