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About sandpaper 120

Different types of sandpaper, 120

Sandpaper, 120 grit, is a medium-fine-grade sandpaper commonly used to smooth and shape surfaces. It comes in various types, each suitable for different applications and materials.

  • Aluminium Oxide sandpaper

    This type of sandpaper is commonly used for general-purpose sanding of wood, metal, and plastic. The fine grit of the sandpaper is ideal for creating a smooth surface finish before painting or staining. It is available in sheets, rolls, and sanding belts of different sizes to suit various power tools and projects. Aluminium oxide sandpaper is durable and gold in colour. It is often used in home settings.

  • Ceramic sandpaper

    It is known for its exceptional toughness and heat resistance. It is ideal for heavy-duty sanding on metal, hardwood, and other tough surfaces. The 120 grit size effectively removes material while still providing a long-lasting, self-sharpening abrasive edge. Due to its durability, ceramic sandpaper is frequently found on power tools and in professional-grade applications.

  • Silicon carbide sandpaper

    Silicon carbide sandpaper is typically waterproof and well-suited for sanding materials like glass, ceramic, and hard woods. It is also effective on softer metals like aluminium. Due to its sharp, brittle grains, this type of sandpaper wears evenly and produces a consistent finish. The black sandpaper comes in a fine grit that is ideal for automotive finishes.

  • Zirconia sandpaper

    Like ceramic sandpaper, zirconia sandpaper is designed for heavy-duty applications. The grit structure is tough enough to withstand high-pressure sanding on metal, wood, and composites. The 120 grit is especially effective at removing material quickly while leaving a smooth finish on coated surfaces. Zirconia sandpaper is often used in industrial settings due to its longevity and aggressive cutting action.

  • Featheredge sandpaper

    Featheredge sandpaper is specifically designed for finishing automotive body filler and primer. The 120 grit size is ideal for smoothing surfaces without deep scratches, which makes it perfect for preparing areas for repainting. It features a flexible backing that easily conforms to curved surfaces. Featheredge sandpaper is an essential tool for professional auto body technicians and DIY car enthusiasts.

Key features and functions of sandpaper, 120

  • Key features

    The key characteristics of 120 grit sandpaper include its medium-fine abrasive size and versatility. The grit size is measured in abrasives per inch, with lower numbers categorised as coarser. Certain brands have specialised types of sandpaper for distinct purposes. For example, waterproof sandpaper for wet sanding or blocking sandpaper for use on sanding boards. These varieties enhance the capabilities of 120 grit paper.

    Another important feature of sandpaper is the material from which it is made. Common materials include aluminium oxide, silicon carbide, and zirconia. Each type of sandpaper material has unique properties that affect durability, cutting speed, and surface application.

  • Function

    The primary function of 120 grit sandpaper is surface preparation and finishing. On wood, it effectively levels rough surfaces and removes old paint or stain. This makes it ideal for furniture and cabinetry. In metalworking, it smooths sharp edges and prepares surfaces for welding or priming. For automotive work, it is used to sand body filler and primer.

    Its versatility makes it essential for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. Due to its ability to handle a range of tasks, grit sandpaper is an important tool to have around.

  • How to use

    Sandpaper is a versatile tool with many uses. Its flexibility makes it ideal for prepping different surfaces such as wood, metal, or drywall. When using sandpaper, it's important to start with light pressure and sand in the direction of the grain on wood, or in small circular motions on other surfaces.

    To achieve the best results, one should constantly check the paper to ensure it doesn't overheat, which could cause damage to the surface. Electric sanders can speed up the process and are especially useful for larger areas.

Commercial use of sandpaper, 120

  • Woodworking industry

    In this industry, sandpaper is commonly used to smooth rough surfaces of wood and bring out the natural grain in preparation for staining or finishing. Woodworkers use various grades of sandpaper, including 120 grit, to achieve the desired level of detail and surface quality for fine furniture making.

  • Automotive refinishing

    Automotive body shops apply sandpaper to level out body filler, remove rust from metal, and prepare surfaces for paint. In this setting, sandpaper grits are critical for achieving smooth and professional finishes on vehicles.

  • Metalworking

    Here, sandpaper is used to polish metal surfaces, remove burrs, and get pieces ready for coating. Sanding belts made with 120 grit paper are helpful when smoothing rough castings.

  • Plastic manufacturing

    In this industry, sandpaper is used to deburr edges, polish surfaces, and prepare plastics for painting or adhesives. Sandpaper helps maintain tight tolerances and improves the appearance of plastic parts for final assembly.

  • Construction

    Sandpaper is used to finish drywall, polish wood trim and mouldings, and prepare building materials for painting in the construction industry. Painters and drywall crews rely on various grits of sandpaper, including 120, to deliver quality workmanship on walls and ceilings.

  • Printing industry

    In this industry, sandpaper is used to prepare printing plates, polish rollers, and maintain a smooth work surface. Zirconium sandpaper can gently buff fine metal plates without damaging the image transfer.

  • Musical instruments

    Musical instrument makers apply sandpaper sheets to smooth wood and metal parts. This achieves detailed finishes for instruments such as guitars, trumpets, and precision-crafted items. Luthiers depend on sandpaper to maintain the tonal quality and appearance of string instruments.

  • Commercial applications

    In commercial settings, sandpaper is crucial for product maintenance and quality control. Factories use sandpaper to deburr newly manufactured items, polish moulds, and keep machinery components in top shape. Sandpaper aids preventive maintenance and keeps tools functioning effectively.

How to choose sandpaper, 120

  • Material

    Sandpaper for wood is often made of aluminium oxide. It is ideal for general sanding, such as removing paint and preparing surfaces for further work. Silicon carbide paper works well for wet sanding or preparing very hard surfaces. For metals and heavy work, zirconia or ceramic sandpapers are very durable and appropriate.

  • Paper backing

    Sandpaper backing may be made of paper, waterproof paper, or fabric. Regular paper is good for hand sanding or light use. Waterproof paper is suitable for wet sanding. Cloth-backed sandpapers or sanding discs are the best for heavy-duty tasks as they endure the most wear.

  • Coarseness

    The 120 grit coarseness of the sandpaper is ideal for finishing surfaces, as it removes old finish without leaving deep grooves in the material.

  • Bonding

    The type of adhesive used to bind the abrasive particles to the backing determines the sandpaper's lifespan. Resin bonds provide good durability in moist environments. Electrostatic bonds hold the grains more firmly, enhancing cutting action and lifespan.

  • Sizing

    Sandpaper comes in different sizes for varying tools. For handheld sanding, sandpaper sheets in sizes 9x11 inches are appropriate. Rotating tools like drills and grinders require smaller sanding disks or strips sized 1 to 3 inches in diameter. Belt sanders necessitate longer belts of appropriate widths.

  • Grade

    Higher-grade sandpaper like 120 grit is useful between wood finishing coats or lightly sanding metal.

Q&A

Q. Which sandpaper is appropriate for heavy-duty sanding on metal and hardwood?

A. Ceramic paper is ideal for heavy-duty sanding on metal, hardwood, and other tough surfaces. Its toughness and heat resistance make it one of the durable sandpapers.

Q. What kind of sandpaper is suitable for smoothing automotive body filler and primer?

A. Featheredge sandpaper is ideal for finishing automotive body filler and primer. Its flexibility enables it to conform to curved surfaces.

Q. Is 120 grit sandpaper coarse?

A. The 120 grit sandpaper is not coarse because it has a lower number than the other grits.

Q. Can 120 grit sandpaper be used on glass?

A. 120 grit sandpaper can be used on glass but it is advisable to use 240 to 320 grit sandpapers because they are finer and smoother.