The desired length of the strip can be torn from the roll for a specific application. Most grades have a light, J-weight cloth backing that provides the flexibility needed to conform to circular edges, angles, or other contours. Rolls in grades P50 or P60 have a slightly stiffer X-weight backing suitable for more coarse sanding applications. Cloth remains durable even when bent or rolled, without tearing or shelling, but strips can be torn by hand when a smaller piece is needed, without compromising the sanding surface.
Aluminum oxide is a popular choice among industrial professionals because of its fast cut-rate and long life. This mineral makes a tough, durable abrasive that self-fractures to expose fresh cutting edges, whereas traditional natural abrasives dull more quickly. Aluminum oxide is suitable for a wide variety of materials in both woodworking and metalworking, including ferrous alloys. Aluminum oxide abrasive can be used on ferrous and non-ferrous metals, wood, and plastic.

Dynabrade 40320 Dynafile II Abrasive Belt Tool
Norton 66261127733 - 2" X 50 Yard 60 Grit Metalite™ Aluminum Oxide Cloth Roll, 1 Each
ACS Diamond Cloth Belt, CX1250 3" X 30" 125U
3M 19772, Utility Cloth Sheet 314D, 9 in x 11 in P80 J-weight, 7000000359
Dynabrade 95842 Dynabrade Air Lube 10W/NR, 1 Pint
3M 04281 Scotch-Brite Surface Conditioning Belt, SC-BS, A/O Very Fine, 4 in x 132 in, 7010292398
3M 15938 Scotch-Brite Surface Conditioning Low Stretch Belt, SC-BL, A/O Medium, 1-1/2 in x 60 in, 7010300824
3M 86745, Diamond Disc, 2" Roloc, 674W, 120 Mesh, TR, 7100022116, Box of 10
3M 24049, Wetordry Cloth Disc 281W, P1000 YF-weight, 8 in x NH, Die 800JM, 7000045052
Standard Abrasives 713276, Aluminum Oxide Handy Roll, P180 J-weight, 2 in x 50 yd, 7100037246 
