Does a higher number on sandpaper indicate coarser or finer abrasive particles?

I. The Meaning of Sandpaper Grain Size Numbers
The grain size number of sandpaper, also known as the grain size code or mesh number, is an important indicator of the coarseness of the abrasive grains on the sandpaper. The larger the grain size number or the higher the mesh number, the more abrasive grains there are per unit area, but each grain is smaller, making the overall grain size of the sandpaper finer; conversely, the smaller the grain size number or the lower the mesh number, the larger the abrasive grains, and the rougher the surface of the sandpaper.
II. The Relationship Between Grain Size Numbers and Abrasive Particles
During the production of sandpaper, the size of the abrasive particles is strictly screened and controlled. A larger grain size number means that the abrasive particles retained during the screening process have a larger diameter, and thus the abrasive particles are coarser. These coarse abrasive particles can more quickly remove larger protrusions and uneven parts on the material surface during grinding, making them suitable for rough grinding or the initial grinding stage.
Sandpaper with a smaller grain size number has smaller abrasive particle diameters and can handle the surface more finely during grinding, making it suitable for fine grinding or polishing stages. These fine abrasive particles can produce a more delicate grinding effect, making the material surface smoother.
III. The Selection of Sandpaper Grain Size Numbers
In practical applications, choosing the appropriate sandpaper grain size number is crucial. Different grinding tasks require sandpaper with different grain size numbers to be completed. For example, during initial grinding, sandpaper with a larger grain size number may be needed to quickly remove large particles and protrusions on the material surface; while during fine grinding, sandpaper with a smaller grain size number should be selected to achieve a smoother surface effect.
The selection of sandpaper grain size numbers is also influenced by factors such as the material of the workpiece, processing requirements, and the service life of the sandpaper. Therefore, when choosing sandpaper, these factors should be comprehensively considered to find the most suitable grain size number.
The larger the grain size number of the sandpaper, the coarser the abrasive particles.