Sanding Cuts and Sandpaper

Initial Cut

The purpose of the initial cut is to remove old finish and gross imperfections on the floor surface. The sanding equipment should be adjusted to heavy sanding pressure setting and a coarse abrasive should be used. If the surface is severely damaged by deep scratches, pre-existing dwell marks, uneven planks, etc., it may be necessary to sand across or diagonally to the grain to restore evenness to the surface. If these conditions are not present, the initial cut should be done in the direction of the grain.

If glazing, loading, or burning takes place immediately into an initial cut, select a coarser abrasive. If this should occur during an initial cut, the abrasive has dulled and must be replaced.

Final Cuts

The purpose of a finishing cut is to remove the scratches produced during the initial cut. Use a fine (60 - 80 grit) grain abrasive and a reduced sanding pressure setting.

If the surface remains rough after a finishing cut, it may be necessary to use an even finer grain of abrasive (80

-100 grit). Care should be taken in selecting the grit size of the abrasive. A very fine grain will close the pores on a wood floor making admission of a stain difficult.

If glazing or burning should occur immediately into a finishing cut, reduce the sanding pressure. If it should occur during a finishing cut, the abrasive has dulled and must be replaced.

Abrasive Bulk Roll

Note: All part numbers listed are for 12" x 50' (30.5 cm x 18m)

Grain

Use

Part No.

12 grit		945516
16 grit	For removing gross imperfections and restore evenness	945517
20 grit	to old flooring. To remove build-up of paints and varnishes.	945518
24 grit		945519
24 grit		945519
30 grit	For first sanding of new flooring (maple, oak). For removing	945520
36 grit	minor imperfections and finishes from old flooring.	945521
40 grit	For first sanding of new flooring (oak, walnut). For removing	945522
	minor imperfections and finishes from old flooring.

50 grit	For first sanding of new flooring (cedar, pine, fir)	945533
	For clean-up of 16 grit.
60 grit	For clean-up from initial cut 36 - 40 grit.	945544
80 grit	For final sanding of certain hardwoods. For clean-up	945545
	of initial cuts (50 grit).
100 grit	For final sanding of certain hardwoods where a smooth	945546
	surface is desired.
120 grit	For final sanding of certain conifers.	945547
150 grit	For final sanding of certain conifers where a smooth	945548
	surface is desired.
180 grit	For surface roughing between coats of finish.	945549

AMERICAN SANDERS TECHNOLOGY -American 12 Floor Sander Operator's Manual

Page 13