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.

3M 76783, Cubitron II Hookit Cloth Disc 784F, 120+ XF-weight, 5 in x NH, Die 500X, 7100222757
3M 11412, Roloc Disc 361F, 36 YF-weight, TR, 1 in, Die R100N, 7000045092
3M 00584 Scotch-Brite Surface Conditioning Belt, SC-BS, A/O Medium, 3 in x 118 in, 7010365595
3M 11411, Roloc Disc 361F, 50 YF-weight, TR, 1 in, Die R100N, 7000045095
Dynabrade 14360 Pneumatic Pipe Belt Finisher
Dynabrade 90873 2" Dia. Medium NWN DynaBrite Locking-Type Disc, 25/pack
Dynabrade 64350 26" W x 36" L (660 mm W x 914 mm L) Metal Capture Downdraft Station, 230 V (AC)
Norton 66261014897 2" x 1/4" Bear-Tex NEX Rapid Blend AO Medium Grit TR (Type III) Non-Woven Wheel, 60 Each
3M 22396, Roloc Disc 361F, 36 YF-weight, TR, 1-1/2 in, Die R150S, 7000045091
Dynabrade 51301 .5 hp Straight-Line Die Grinder
Dynabrade 95842 Dynabrade Air Lube 10W/NR, 1 Pint
Dynabrade 53533 Cone or Plug Grinder (Triple Extension) 
