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 40175, Cloth Spiral Band 341D, 60 X-weight, 3 in x 3 in, 7010360681
3M 06536, Scotch Steel Gray Masking Paper, 06536, 36 in x 1000 ft, 1 per case, 7000045443
3M 65883, Adhesive Transfer Tape 950, Clear, 48 in x 60 yd, 5 mil, 7000001189
3M 19765, Utility Cloth Sheet 314D, 9 in x 11 in P280 J-weight, 7000000353 
