Merit Zirc Plus quick-change abrasive discs are suitable for demanding grinding and deburring applications, where the durable zirconia alumina abrasive cuts faster than comparable aluminum oxide discs. These discs feature a grinding aid for cooler temperature grinding than an uncoated disc on metals such as nickel alloys. The PowerLock quick-change system allows for easy disc mounting and removal to increase productivity by reducing the time required to change discs. Coated abrasives have individual abrasive grains spaced at a predetermined distance from one another. This is a closed-coat disc. A closed coat covers 100 percent of the surface with abrasive grains, for more stiffness and better surface finish than an equivalent open coat, where abrasive grit covers 50 to 70 percent of the surface. All Merit PowerLock discs feature laminated construction which provide a tough, durable backing, reducing snagging and shredding. The cloth backing is stiffer, tougher, and thicker than a paper or film backing. Cloth resists tearing while bending and flexing during use. This disc is suitable for use with a die grinder. Use with molded-rubber backing pads. Use a hard pad for aggressive cutting, a medium pad for general-purpose applications, or a soft pad for contours and fine finishing work. Zirconia alumina is a self-sharpening abrasive that allows for a faster cut rate and longer life than aluminum oxide, due to its ability to fracture and refracture, creating new cutting edges. Zirconia alumina is often used for high stock removal on metals and wood. Abrasives are used for a variety of applications from shaping a part to fine finishing, depending on the grit size. Low grit numbers like 40 are coarse and are used for removing excess material and shaping a part. High grit numbers like 400 are fine and help to create a smooth surface finish. Merit Abrasives has been manufacturing abrasives for the deburring and finishing industries since 1945, and pride themselves on their quality and focus on service. Saint-Gobain owns Merit, and has been recognized as a Global 100 Sustainable Company. Saint-Gobain has also earned ISO 9000 and 14001 certification for quality and environmental management standards.