How does the way of fixing the sandpaper on the polishing disc affect the grinding efficiency and uniformity?

The influence of the way of fixing on grinding efficiency

How firm the fixing is:
If the sandpaper isn't fixed firmly, it might slip or move on the polishing disc that's spinning fast. That means the grinding force can't be sent to the surface of the workpiece well, and it makes the grinding efficiency lower. A really firm way of fixing makes sure the sandpaper is close to the polishing disc tightly. Then the grinding force can be used fully and the grinding efficiency gets better.

How easy the fixing is:
A complicated way of fixing might need more time and tools to do. It makes the preparation time longer and lowers the whole grinding efficiency. An easy and quick way of fixing can cut the preparation time. It lets the operator start grinding faster and makes the grinding efficiency higher.

The influence of the way of fixing on grinding uniformity

How flat it is after fixing:
If the surface of the sandpaper isn't flat after it's fixed, with wrinkles or bubbles, it might cause too much or too little grinding force in some parts during grinding. That makes the surface of the workpiece be ground unevenly. A flat way of fixing makes sure the sandpaper touches the surface of the workpiece evenly. The grinding force is spread evenly and the grinding uniformity gets better.

How stable the fixing is:
An unstable way of fixing might make the sandpaper shake or vibrate during grinding. That affects the uniformity of grinding. A stable way of fixing makes sure the sandpaper stays still during grinding. It avoids shaking and vibrating and makes the grinding uniformity better.

Common ways of fixing and their features

Adhesive fixing:
The sandpaper is stuck to the polishing disc with an adhesive. It's fixed firmly and is very flat. But when you change the sandpaper, it might be a pain. You need to clean up the leftover adhesive.

Clamp fixing:
The sandpaper is fixed to the polishing disc with clamps or fixtures. This way of fixing is simple and fast. But you might need to pay attention to how tight the clamps or fixtures are to make sure the sandpaper is firm and flat.

Magnetic fixing (works for magnetic polishing discs):
The sandpaper is held onto the polishing disc by magnetic force. This way of fixing is both firm and convenient. But the polishing disc has to be magnetic and you might need to pay attention to if the sandpaper is compatible with the magnetism.