Hiekkapaperit

Hiekkapaperi, also known as sandpaper, is a tool used to abrade and remove material from a workpiece. It consists of abrasive grit bonded to a flexible backing material, typically paper or cloth. The grit size, or grit count, determines the coarseness of the sandpaper. Higher grit numbers indicate finer grit and a smoother finish, while lower grit numbers signify coarser grit and more aggressive material removal.

The abrasive grains used in sandpaper can vary, with common materials including aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, and garnet. Aluminum oxide is a durable and versatile abrasive suitable for wood and metal. Silicon carbide is sharper and more brittle, making it ideal for hard surfaces and wet sanding. Garnet is a natural abrasive that produces a very fine finish, often used in woodworking.

Hiekkapaperi is used in a wide range of applications, from woodworking and metalworking to crafting and household repairs. It can be used by hand, with a sanding block for added pressure and evenness, or with power sanders for larger or more demanding tasks. The process of sanding typically involves moving the sandpaper across the surface in a consistent direction, often with the grain of the material, to achieve the desired smoothness or to prepare the surface for finishing. Different grits are used sequentially, starting with a coarser grit to remove imperfections and progressing to finer grits to achieve a smooth surface.