Fast-cutting aluminum oxide abrasive grains are resin-bonded to a durable cotton cloth backing to provide continuous cut and long-life. Our open coat and load-resistant coating make this belt particularly favorable for sanding soft woods. Additionally, the washable backing is suitable for high production environments where the belt may need washing at intervals to remove soft wood resin or pitch buildup. Aluminum oxide mineral is a popular choice among industrial professionals because of its cut-rate, durability, and long life. It can be used on a wide variety of materials in both woodworking and metalworking, including ferrous alloys, and is the most commonly used industrial abrasive. The abrasive particles are adhered to the cloth backing with resin, creating a strong bond that withstands high heat and pressure. Abrasive belts come in many different widths and lengths and are used on a variety of different belt sanding tools for many different applications on both wood and metal. At 3M we offer a broad selection of belts to fit most any industrial belt sander. Wider belts are used with wide belt sanders to dimension or finish wood panels, smooth rough cut edges of metal sheets, or add a grain pattern to stainless steel sheets. Medium-width belts fit onto edge sanders for sanding flat, narrow surfaces such as panel edges; and narrow belts are used with portable belt sanders for sanding or blending wood pieces such as cabinet doors. Belts come with various splices that join the belt ends. A film media splice achieves a secure bond with a joining film that minimizes chatter marks, ensures a smooth running belt, and produces consistent finishing results. A sine wave splice is constructed of interlocking fingers that enable the splice to travel smoothly over contact wheels, reduce hinging, and provide added strength to the joint area. Sine wave splices are typically used for coarser grades and wide belts as well as on belts that are going to be washed.