ceramics or structured abarsives?

U

unky_gumbi

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Aug 28, 2009
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Which way to go and what are the pros and cons of each? I could read the companies product sheets about how their belts are the best of the best and still be none the wiser so I am hoping that some of you here have used both and have an actual comparison to give advise with:p

All I have used so far is Zirconia belts, but was told that I need to step up my belts for hardened 154cm steel. Right now the only difference I can see between ceramics and structured abrasives is the cost and that in itself is not enough to make a decision on.
 
When I was getting ready to work M4 for the first time I posted here and ceramic belts were suggested. I had mainly used Zirconia up to that point. Now after using ceramic belts for about six months that is all I will use. I have found that after a ceramic bel starts glazing on M4, 3V, K390, or similar I can still grind atleast one more blade in O1 or A2 without working overly hard. I'm sure someone else will chime in soon, but I will say to go ahead and make the transition to ceramic belts. You wont be disappointed.
 
Justin King said:
Ceramics for hogging and structured for finishing.
Click to expand...

+1 - works the best for me this way as well. I have ceramics up to 150 grit, and structured up to ~400 grit. I do have a few j-flex and zirc belts, but I only use them on handles.
 
The ceramic Cubitron II belts from 3M are outstanding; well worth the cost. They stay sharp longer and seem to leave a better finish than cheap belts.

I use Trizacts for just about everything else.
 
Thanks for all the input, I got an email from a very respected maker as well say the same thing, go ceramic. So as soon as my GST check comes in I will be ordering some ceramic belts. With the added life of the belts I should be good for some time.
 
Mitchell Knives said:
The ceramic Cubitron II belts from 3M are outstanding; well worth the cost. They stay sharp longer and seem to leave a better finish than cheap belts.

I use Trizacts for just about everything else.
Click to expand...


Where are you buying your cubitron II's from Johnathan?
 
highest std. grit belt in my shop sept for 9micron is the 220 Jflex
everythingk over 180 is gator work starting at A300
 
Is there a good chart that cross references all the abrasive sizes to each other ?

grit
micron
a--

I have a decent understanding of "grit" & it would be nice to be able to refer everything to that.
 
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