Slijpkorrel

Slijpkorrel is a Dutch term meaning "abrasive grain" or "grit," used for the hard, angular or rounded particles bonded into abrasive tools and materials such as sandpaper, grinding wheels, cutting discs and polishing compounds. Abrasive grains remove material by cutting, ploughing or fracturing surface layers and are selected for hardness, toughness and particle shape to suit the workpiece and desired finish.

Common abrasive materials used as slijpkorrels include aluminium oxide, silicon carbide, zirconia alumina and diamond. Each has different wear characteristics: aluminium oxide is general-purpose for steels, silicon carbide is sharper and used for non-ferrous metals and ceramics, zirconia is durable for heavy grinding, and diamond is used for the hardest materials and precision lapping.

Grit size is an important specification, expressed by grading systems such as FEPA (P grades), CAMI and ANSI, which indicate the number of openings in a sieve or the average particle diameter. Higher grit numbers correspond to finer particles and smoother finishes. Bond type (resin, vitrified, rubber) and backing also affect cutting action and tool life.

Applications of slijpkorrels range from rough stock removal to fine polishing in metalworking, woodworking, glass, stone and electronics. Selection considers workpiece material, required surface finish, machine speed and coolant use. Appropriate safety measures — eye protection, dust extraction and respiratory protection — are important due to airborne particles and sparks.