Most metallographic laboratories use metallographic sandpaper as the most commonly used consumables. In order to save procurement costs, a large single purchase quantity is usually required, which can be stored for a long time, or can be used quarterly, semi annually, or annually. This involves the issue of how to store metallographic sandpaper. If the storage method is not appropriate, problems such as mold, failure, and threshing may occur. Therefore, scientific management and correct storage of metallographic sandpaper will ensure its good quality and performance, and its service life will be longer.


Based on past work experience, the editor of Kemai Testing has summarized some storage methods. Please keep them for future use.

Storage method for temporarily unused metallographic sandpaper:


1、 Avoid moisture: Metallographic sandpaper can be stored in environments with high humidity, which can cause it to become damp. Prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to mold and depreciation, leading to failure. Therefore, the storage environment needs to be regularly ventilated and kept clean and dry.


2、 Avoid direct sunlight or exposure: The binder of metallographic sandpaper, if exposed to direct sunlight or exposure for a long time, will fail and cause the abrasive particles of the sandpaper to fall off. Therefore, metallographic sandpaper needs to be stored in a dark environment.


3、 Note the validity period: The performance of the binder for metallographic sandpaper has a validity period, usually three years. After expiration, the abrasive particles become loose and easily fall off, leading to the failure of the sandpaper. Therefore, it is necessary to manage properly and use up the metallographic sandpaper as much as possible within the validity period.


4、 Priority use of unpacked metallographic sandpaper: Newly purchased sandpaper is usually packaged in paper boxes or sealed plastic bags. If not in use temporarily, do not open the packaging and store it on a cool and dry warehouse shelf or in a laboratory storage cabinet. Unpacked sandpaper should be used up first.


5、 Attention: Place metallographic sandpaper on shelves or in storage cabinets, and be sure to place it horizontally to avoid creases or deformation caused by longitudinal compression of sandpaper, which may affect normal use.

Storage method for metallographic sandpaper in use:


1、 Thoroughly rinse: After each use of metallographic sandpaper, it is necessary to thoroughly rinse it multiple times to ensure that there are no debris or impurities left on it, in order to maintain its original performance.


2、 Timely drainage of water: When replacing metallographic sandpaper during the sample preparation process, the washed sandpaper needs to be placed on a drainage rack, naturally drained, and air dried.


Attention: To facilitate air circulation, a certain distance and gap should be left between multiple drainage racks.

3、 Temporarily no longer in use, use a hair dryer to dry or wait for it to air dry thoroughly. Store it in a storage drawer and continue to keep it cool and ventilated to avoid mold. Attention: The storage drawer adopts an open type, which is more suitable for ventilation and easy access.


Storage of metallographic sandpaper according to these management methods can ensure that it does not expire during the warranty period, maintains stable performance during use, and has a longer service life.