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Confused About Grit Grades? Discover the 3M Lapping Film Standard!
2025-08-12

Understanding Grit Grades

Grit grades represent the size of abrasive particles on a lapping film. The finer the grit, the smoother the surface it produces. The 3M Lapping Film Grit Equivalent Table is a useful resource for determining which grit level to use based on microns and intended applications.

3M Lapping Film Grit Equivalent Table

3M Grit Grade Grit Type Micron (μm) Common Use/Application Alternative Label
0.02 μm Silicon Dioxide 0.02 μm Final polishing for optical/fiber surfaces 3M 598X (SiO₂ film)
0.05 μm Diamond / SiO₂ 0.05 μm Ultra-fine final finish 3M 261X or 598X
0.1 μm Diamond 0.1 μm Mirror finishing for fiber optics, glass 3M 261X Diamond Film
0.3 μm Diamond 0.3 μm Super-fine polishing
0.5 μm Diamond 0.5 μm Final polish for MT/MPO ferrules 3M 261X
1 μm Diamond / Alumina 1 μm Fiber connector polishing, ceramic ferrules 3M 261X / 268X
3 μm Diamond / Alumina 3 μm Pre-polish, geometry control 3M 261X / 268X
6 μm Diamond / Alumina 6 μm Geometry adjustment 3M 268X
9 μm Diamond / Alumina 9 μm Surface shaping, ferrule correction 3M 261X / 268X
15 μm Alumina / SiC 15 μm Pre-polish on ceramics, steel 3M 268X / 372L
30 μm Alumina / SiC 30 μm Coarse lapping, defect removal 3M 268X / 373L / 372L
45 μm Alumina / SiC 45 μm Initial stock removal on hard surfaces 3M 372L
60 μm Alumina / SiC 60 μm Heavy-duty lapping for metal and ceramics 3M 373L
80 μm Silicon Carbide (SiC) 80 μm Very coarse grinding or material removal 3M 373L / custom

How to Use This Table

  • Match by Micron if your process specifies surface roughness (Ra/Rz), geometry control, or fiber protrusion levels.
  • Match by 3M Product Series if you're looking to replace 3M items like: 261X (Diamond Film), 268X (Aluminum Oxide Film), 466X (Silicon Carbide Film), 372L / 373L (Microfinishing Film Rolls), 598X (SiO₂ for final polish).

Need an Exact Match?

We offer support for:

  • Custom cutting to 3M standard disc sizes (e.g., 127mm, 203mm, 305mm).
  • Same PET thickness (3mil, 5mil, 7mil).
  • Same backing (PSA or plain).
  • OEM printing and packaging (logo, barcode, grit code).
  • Custom hole patterns (center hole, tab notch).

Conclusion

Understanding 3M Lapping Film Grit Grades is crucial for achieving precise surface finishes in various industries. With XYT’s advanced abrasive solutions, you can confidently choose the right grit for your application, ensuring optimal results in your finishing processes.

Why Choose XYT?

As a trusted leader in the abrasive manufacturing industry, XYT combines expertise with innovation. We provide comprehensive support for all your polishing needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist with your precision polishing solutions!

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