Aluminum oxide is the most commonly used abrasive. Best-suited for general purpose deburring and blending, it is tough, economical and fracture resistant. Commonly used on ferrous alloys, high-tensile materials and wood.

 

Coated abrasives can be used for most applications, from grinding to polishing. They consist of a thin layer of abrasive adhered to fiber, paper, cloth or rubber. Coated discs are normally used on angle grinders.