Dust-free sanding with 3M Xtract abrasives

Today, we identify four key trends in the manufacturing industry.

• The process needs to be more productive.
• Consumption costs should be reduced.
• Employee health is critical.
• Retaining and attracting labor is essential.

When choosing machines and abrasives, it is necessary to keep these points in mind.

• To work more productively, there are several options. Choose abrasives with high removal rates that minimize the number of steps to the desired finish. Ensure an optimal combination of machine and abrasives.
• Lower consumption costs by choosing long-life materials.
• Working in a high dust environment? Provide dust extraction at the source and comfortable PPE. Ergonomic machines reduce vibrations. The abrasive material chosen also makes a difference in this regard.
• A nice workplace and good tools make an employee enjoy going to work. Spending money on this is not a short-term expense but a long-term investment.

How do we apply this knowledge in the world of eccentric surface sanding and preparation?

More productive sanding:

We know the classic aluminum oxide grit sanding discs with a Velcro or film backing. Also, mesh discs have long been on the market for optimal dust extraction. 3M supplies these discs with a pre-shaped grain, the PSG (Precision Shaped Grain) This grain guarantees fast material removal and long life. Mesh discs are also available in two grades with PSG. 3M is the only manufacturer to supply these PSG discs up to and including grain 400. Minimal steps and ready for further processing or final surface finish. The PN-DH Scotch Brite discs are also a real production accelerator

Reduce consumption costs when sanding

Consumption costs are determined by the cost of a disc and the life of an abrasive disc. The machine being used affects the life of the abrasive material. But in this case, dust extraction also has an influence. With good dust extraction, the disc is less likely to fill up, which positively affects the lifetime. Also look at the application. Does it contain sharp edges, is it curved or flat? Some discs are more robust than others.

Employee health

Employees are the most important capital of companies in the manufacturing industry. Opting for tools that contribute to a healthier and safer working environment demonstrates good employment practice. Lung and respiratory diseases are high on the list of occupational diseases. By choosing good extraction at the source, the danger is already greatly reduced. Consider not only the person sanding, but also people in the vicinity. Read more on our theme page about safety

We haven't mentioned the support discs and interface pads yet but they also belong on the spot. These should provide maximum adhesion to the disc but also facilitate maximum dust extraction. The latter obviously applies to the machine as well. Together with an ergonomic design, low weight and low vibration, this makes for comfortable sanding.

Watch the video for how 3M Xtract works:

The 3M Xtract series is specially designed for fast and dust-free sanding with a beautiful finish.

The program includes different machines and qualities of sanding discs. We would be pleased to test on your shop floor which combination is most suitable for you. We can provide samples that we will gladly bring to you. Invite us for an interview and find out what improvements you can make! At the bottom of this page you will find an attractive introductory offer, take advantage of extra benefits!

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