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 65487, Pro Grade Precision Ultra Durable Universal Hole Sanding Disc, DUH560TRI-10T, 5 IN x UH, 60, 7100202913, 10 per pack
3M 22409, Roloc Disc 361F, P120 XF-weight, TR, 1-1/2 in, Die R150S, 7000045103
3M 11411, Roloc Disc 361F, 50 YF-weight, TR, 1 in, Die R100N, 7000045095
3M 88892, PSA Cloth Disc 348D, 60 X-weight, 15 in x NH, Die 1500A, 7010360718
3M 10120, Synthetic Steel Wool Pads, 10120NA, #000 Extra Fine, 7000126149
3M 19764, Utility Cloth Sheet 314D, 9 in x 11 in P320 J-weight, 7000000352 
