When it comes to sandpaper, there are a variety of types and grades available to suit different applications. One particular type that’s essential for many projects is waterproof sandpaper. Made with a waterproof backing material, these sandpapers are ideal for wet sanding applications where water is being used as a lubricant. In this blog, as a proficient abrasive products company, we'll be taking a closer look at the different types and grades of waterproof sandpaper and what they’re best used for.
There are two main types of waterproof sandpaper, those being silicon carbide and aluminum oxide. Silicon carbide sandpaper is often preferred for wet sanding applications due to its ability to resist heat when it comes into contact with water. This makes it ideal for use on surfaces that are prone to overheating, such as plastics, metal, or fiberglass.
On the other hand, aluminum oxide sandpaper is commonly used for dry sanding applications, however, it can also be used for wet sanding. This type of waterproof sandpaper is ideal for use on wood, painted surfaces, and metal.
When it comes to waterproof sandpaper, the grading system works in the opposite way to regular sandpapers. The higher the number, the closer the grit particles are together, resulting in a finer finish with less visible scratches. The following are the most common grades used in waterproof sandpapers:
60-80 grit: This grade is considered to be a coarse grit sandpaper. It’s best used for removing heavy rust, paint, and other types of surface coatings.
100-150 grit: With a medium grit, this grade is ideal for sanding away smaller rough spots on surfaces and preparing them for the next stage of sanding.
180-220 grit: This grade is considered to be a fine grit sandpaper. It’s ideal for prepping surfaces for paint or varnish.
320-400 grit: With a very fine grit, this grade is ideal for sanding the surface after applying the first coat of paint or varnish.
600-800 grit: This grade is considered to be an ultra-fine grit sandpaper. It’s best used for the final sanding stage and produces a very smooth finished surface.
Selecting the right grit grade of waterproof sandpaper is crucial for achieving a high-quality finish. It’s equally important to choose a reputable waterproof sandpaper manufacturer so that you can be sure of the quality of the product you’re purchasing. A quality manufacturer will use the best materials and will produce sandpapers that provide a consistent and reliable finish. This is especially important for professionals who rely on sandpaper in their work.
Choosing the right type and grade of waterproof sandpaper is essential for achieving a high-quality finish on your projects. Remember, the higher the number, the finer the finish. And, for best results, choose a reputable waterproof sandpaper manufacturer to ensure the quality and reliability of the product. With these tips, you’re well on your way to achieving professional-grade results on all your wet sanding projects.
