The table does not include another important variable in abrasive selection- the particle size. The most efficient abrasive will be the finest abrasive that will remove the coating and give the required profile. If the abrasive is too fine or too coarse, its efficiency is minimised.
Ideally, whether the abrasive is metallic or non- metallic, a mix of particle sizes gives the best performance and the best surface finish. Most recyclable abrasives are supplied in a narrow size range, since the recycling process will produce the working mix. The purchaser should select the size range that will not only remove the coating initially but will also be a good size to add into the recycled mix to keep it efficient. Expendable abrasives that are used only once are sold in working mixes (usually 0.2-1.8 mm).