Hook-Face or PSA?
Abrasives for sanders usually come in either hook-face (or hook and loop) or PSA, pressure sensitive adhesive. People have their preferences but they both serve a purpose.
PSA abrasives have a sticky back and are smooth when used on large surface areas. They are best to use on wood, fiberglass, or metal depending on the grit used. The abrasives are usually sold in rolls or individual sheets or discs. If you are purchasing PSA abrasives in a roll, make sure you tear it off properly, so the abrasive fits the sander properly.
PSA abrasives are peeled and stuck onto the pad, this leaves the abrasive non-usable when peeled off. Since the adhesive doesn’t work as well the second time it is attached, it is not advised to switch out abrasives frequently. With PSA abrasives, it is also suggested that the operator makes sure there is not a lot of dust built up on the pad. When the abrasive is placed over the pad, the dust may make it not as smooth.
Hook-face or hook and loop abrasives have one side roofed with hooks and the other side is roofed with loops to easily be placed on the pad. One of the major benefits of using abrasives with hook and loop is that they are reusable.
Hook-face abrasives will still work fine even if dust gets on them. The dust doesn’t clog any adhesive, so it is still able to be attached to the pad.
The hook for the pads on hook-face provide a slight cushion, so these discs will work better on mild curves and surfaces that have a contour. PSA is ideal for leveling surfaces since these abrasives are flat and do not follow contours.
Regardless of which abrasive you prefer, Dynabrade has pads that can work with either.
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