An abrasive belt development offers a faster cutting rate and a belt life improvement of 50-100% (when used on nickel alloys), when compared with existing products.

3M has introduced developments to its Cubitron belt products The company said that tests showed that the latest Cubitron construction on the 987FI belt offers a faster cutting rate and a belt life improvement of 50-100% (when used on nickel alloys), when compared with already impressive existing products

The results are as follows.

* Lower cost per part.

* Reduced process time.

* Minimised down-time.

* Less operator fatigue.

Like the existing Cubitron belts, the structure of the new grain on the 3M 987FI belt is designed so that it continuously exposes fresh cutting faces as it wears, ensuring a consistently sharp cut throughout the belt's life.

3M 987FI abrasive adds an improved grinding aid to the construction, helping it stay cooler as it cuts and making it easier to use in heat-sensitive applications.

987FI abrasive is available in six grades, from 24 to 80 grit.

3M said that the belt can be used in everything from automated rapid grinding systems to hand-held grinding tools, allowing its use in a wide range of applications.

"Cubitron mineral was ground-breaking when it was first launched and has continued to be a market leader," said 3M technical manager, Cheri Hayne.

"This is a new generation of product that incorporates a number of patented innovations designed to help our customers work more efficiently.".

Source: 3M