Drum Sanding with Blue Zirconia

[John Hollaway]

I see that Woodworker's Supply has a selection of heavy-duty roll paper for drum sanders made with blue zirconia. I curious if any other creekers have used this abrasive, and if you have noticed less burning and longer life as advertised? Thanks.

[Tom Esh]

I don't have a drum sander, but I use zirconia belts and disks quite a lot. I'm probably getting 4x life or better on them compared to AO. They also grind metal quite nicely where as AO will wear out almost immediately. As for burning, I don't know. I never have trouble unless I overdo it in the 180 grit + range where zirconia isn't a choice.

[Dave Gaul]

I have been using the zirc discs, grits 100-220 for a couple of months. IMHO, well worth the extra cost.