Sandpaper type for removing fiberglass

[Theolithic71]

For profiling fiberglass limbs, is it better to use silicone carbide or aluminum  oxide sandpaper, or something else?  What is the largest grit for shaping?

Also, any good sources for spindle sanding sleeves?

Thanks much!!!

[David Flanrey]

Ted I usually use alum oxide but for no particular reason.  I buy my sleeves from Grizzly.  They have website that is very good.  Harbor Freight also has sleeves but quality is not very good.

[Bowjunkie]

For material removal and shaping I use 36-40 grit on my edge and drum sanders. I usually buy the belts and sleeves on the big auction site.

[bamboo]

http://www.supergrit.com/products/products_belts-zirconia

this is the stuff

[Theolithic71]

Hmm.  I've never used the zirconia before.

Really just trying to figure out the easiest way to profile my limbs without a proper edge sander.  I'll be using a bench top belt and disc sander.  I also have a spindle sander.  Past experience  tells me you can save a Lotta frustration with some quality abrasive.

Thanks for the info fellows.

[mikkekeswick]

36 grit zirconium.
Glass trashes ali oxide in about one minute.

[Robertfishes]

I use Zirconium belts too. 36 grit or 50 grit to get close to the line, then I switch to a 120 grit to sand to the edge of the line. Zirc belts last longer than AO belts. I have been buying belts and spindles from Supergrit since 2009.

[bamboo]

Originally posted by Theolithic71:
Hmm.  I've never used the zirconia before.

Really just trying to figure out the easiest way to profile my limbs without a proper edge sander.  I'll be using a bench top belt and disc sander.  I also have a spindle sander.  Past experience  tells me you can save a Lotta frustration with some quality abrasive.

Thanks for the info fellows.

when I was building w/benchtop sanders--I would put a zero clearance insert on my tablesaw and a high tooth count carbide blade--then free hand 1/8" outside the limb layout lines to minimize the profile grinding necessary--in fact I still use my tablesaw --saves a lot of work!!be careful!!do not hurry or be greedy [try to be too close to your line]

   also zirc is head and shoulders above alum on glass!!

[Theolithic71]

@Mike,

You're reading my mind!  Although I don't have a edge sander, I do have a nice table saw and plan to do just what you said.

Ok,zirconium!

[bamboo]

oh yeah--one more thing--face shield !!

[Mad Max]

Originally posted by bamboo:
 http://www.supergrit.com/products/products_belts-zirconia  

this is the stuff

x2

[Theolithic71]

Thanks again guys.