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.

Standard Abrasives 712149, Aluminum Oxide Handy Roll, P100 J-weight, 1-1/2 in x 50 yd, 7010295370
Insize 7341-7S, PIN GAGE HANDLE (with 1pc handle and 6 pairs of collecting bushes), .341-.406", 6928640370625
3M 45717, Cubitron II Hookit Cloth Disc 947A, 80+ X-weight, 5 in x NH, D/F 5HL, Die 500FH, 7100113111
Standard Abrasives 850034, Unitized Wheel Steel Screw Mandrel, 7/8 in x 1/4 in Shank, 7000121879
3M 26583, Accuspray Refill Pack for PPS Series 2.0, Green, 1.3 mm, 7100152953
3M 35831, Hookit Dust Extraction Flexible Radius Sanding Block, 178 mm x 66 mm, 7100256512
3M 19772, Utility Cloth Sheet 314D, 9 in x 11 in P80 J-weight, 7000000359 
