Sponge Sandpaper Usage Method

Sponge sandpaper is very different from traditional sheet sandpaper. In comparison, we can see that sponge sandpaper has a certain degree of softness and flexibility, especially when dealing with curved surfaces and corners of workpieces. Traditional sheet sandpaper can only be seen from a distance, making it difficult for many polishers to know where to start. At this time, using sponge sandpaper can easily handle these seemingly difficult small problems. In manual polishing, sheet sandpaper is difficult to solve the problem of heat generated by friction. When polishers are working on the workpiece, they not only feel hot but also easily get cut. Using sponge sandpaper can provide protection for both the workpiece and the employees.

So, what is the correct way to use sponge sandpaper? What details should be paid attention to when polishing with sponge sandpaper? Here are the three key points to note when polishing with sponge sandpaper:

When polishing with sponge sandpaper, use a soft wooden stick or bamboo stick

When polishing a circular or spherical surface, using a soft wooden stick can better match the curvature of the surface. A harder wooden stick, such as cherry wood, is more suitable for polishing flat surfaces. Trim the end of the wooden stick to match the shape of the steel surface, which can avoid the sharp corner of the wooden stick (or bamboo stick) from contacting the steel surface and causing deep scratches.

When switching to different grit sizes of sandpaper, change the polishing direction by 45°~90°

This way, the stripes left by the previous grit size of sandpaper can be distinguished. Before switching to a different grit size of sandpaper, the polished surface must be carefully wiped with cleaning liquid, such as alcohol on 100% pure cotton, because even a small gravel remaining on the surface can damage the entire polishing work to be done next. The same cleaning process is equally important when switching from sponge sandpaper polishing to diamond polishing paste. Before continuing the polishing, all particles and kerosene must be completely cleaned.

In order to avoid scratching the surface of the workpiece, special caution must be taken when polishing with #1200 and #1500 sandpaper

Therefore, it is necessary to apply a light load and use a two-step polishing method to polish the surface. When polishing with each grit size of sandpaper, polishing should be performed twice in two different directions, rotating between the two directions by 45°~90° each time.

During the use of sponge sandpaper, pay attention to whether there are scratches on the surface of the workpiece. If there are obvious scratches, eliminate the cause of the scratches. If you find that the surface of the sponge sandpaper is not smooth, please do not continue to use it and replace it with new sponge sandpaper for polishing.