Introduction to Abrasive Grits for Metal Fabricators

Choosing the right abrasive grit is crucial for efficient metalworking, weld removal, and surface finishing. Using the wrong grit can cause:

  • Excessive wear on abrasives
  • Deep scratches on metal
  • Slow production and poor finishes

In this guide, we provide a complete abrasive grit chart for metal, explain the uses of each grit, and recommend the best abrasives for different metals and applications.

Tip: Bookmark this page — it’s designed to be your quick reference for abrasive grits.

What Is Abrasive Grit?

Abrasive grit refers to the size of the particles in sanding belts, flap discs, grinding wheels, or sandpaper.

  • Lower grit numbers = coarse, aggressive cutting
  • Higher grit numbers = fine, smooth finishing

Examples:

  • 36 grit → heavy material removal
  • 80 grit → surface blending
  • 220+ grit → final finishing

Abrasive Grit Chart for Metal

Here’s a general reference chart for commonly used abrasive grits in metal fabrication:

Grit Range Abrasive Type Typical Application Surface Finish
24–36 Grinding wheels / Coarse flap discs Heavy stock removal, weld grinding Very rough
40–60 Flap discs / Sanding belts Weld removal, shaping Rough
80 Flap discs / Sanding belts Blending welds Medium
100–120 Sanding belts / Surface conditioning Smoothing Smooth
150–180 Sandpaper / Finishing discs Pre-polishing Fine
220–320 Fine sandpaper Final finishing / polishing Very smooth

 

Grit Recommendations by Metal Type

Stainless Steel

  • 60 grit – heavy weld removal
  • 80 grit – surface blending
  • 120 grit – smoothing
  • 180+ grit – finishing

Tip: Use ceramic or zirconia abrasives to avoid overheating and discoloration.

Aluminum

  • 60–80 grit – stock removal
  • 120–180 grit – finishing

Tip: Choose open coat abrasives to prevent clogging.

Carbon Steel & Mild Steel

  • 36–60 grit – rough grinding
  • 80–120 grit – blending and smoothing
  • 150–220 grit – finishing

Grit Recommendations by Task

Task Recommended Grit Abrasive Type
Weld Removal 36–60 Flap disc, grinding wheel
Surface Blending 80–120 Flap disc, sanding belt
Deburring 100–180 Sanding belt, finishing disc
Polishing 220+ Fine sandpaper

 

Tips for Using Abrasives Effectively

  1. Follow Grit Progression Don’t skip steps; coarse scratches are harder to remove.
  2. Let the Abrasive Do the Work Avoid excessive pressure to prevent overheating and premature wear.
  3. Select the Right Grain for the Material Ceramic for stainless steel, aluminum oxide for general steel, silicon carbide for aluminum.
  4. Use Quality Abrasives High-quality abrasives last longer and reduce labor time.

Helpful Links:

AA Abrasives Digital CatalogCheck out the AA Abrasives Digital Catalog for easy product selection

Visit our webstore to view our full line of abrasives and industrial power tools. Our webstore is open 24/7 and we are available by phone M-F 8:30 - 5 EST at 1-800-888-1802.