Abranet for Festool

[John Conklin]

I've got a Festool ETS EC 125 random orbit sander on order and plan on using abranet based on my research and reading.

I just want to verify that this (http://www.2sand.com/en/mirka-abranet-5-inch-dust-free-sanding-discs-variety-pack1.html) is what I need. I was sure at one point, but some how lost my feeling of certainty. :o

Thanks

[Andy Giddings]

My recollection of Abranet is its porous, so as long as the diameter is correct you should be ok with dust extraction (no need for the hole pattern to match). I tend to use Festool brand discs nowadays as they are long lasting and effective, especially Granat

[Gary Muto]

I've got a Festool ETS EC 125 random orbit sander on order and plan on using abranet based on my research and reading.

I just want to verify that this (http://www.2sand.com/en/mirka-abranet-5-inch-dust-free-sanding-discs-variety-pack1.html) is what I need. I was sure at one point, but some how lost my feeling of certainty. :o

Thanks
I believe abranet makes an interface pad to go between the hook and loop surface and the abranet disks. It is supposed to protect the hook and loop surface. I'm not positive of the manufacturer but I got mine at Woodcraft.
Actually, here it is... http://www.woodcraft.com/product/147516/mirka-abranet-5-backing-pad.aspx

[Kevin Jenness]

I have been using 320 # abranet for cutting down finishes, otherwise Klingspor for sanding wood with the same sander.The Abranet loses its initial sharpness fairly fast. I will have to convince myself to but a box of Granat for comparison when I get low on one grit.

[Sam Murdoch]

I believe abranet makes an interface pad to go between the hook and loop surface and the abranet disks. It is supposed to protect the hook and loop surface. I'm not positive of the manufacturer but I got mine at Woodcraft.
Actually, here it is... http://www.woodcraft.com/product/147516/mirka-abranet-5-backing-pad.aspx

This is correct. I buy my Abranet mesh from 2Sand, so that's another good source. I am a huge proponent of Abranet Mesh with my Festool sanders. They are especially excellent between coats of finishes as they don't clog nearly as fast as the Brilliant ll which is my favorite Festool Abrasive. No science here but the AM goes easily 5 Xs longer than the Festool and the sanding quality is excellent. On bare soft wood the AB is very good. On woods harder than Poplar or Cherry I agree with Kevin Jenness that the AM "loses its initial sharpness fairly fast".

[John Conklin]

I ended up ordering 10 packs of 80, 120, 180 and 220 Rubin 2 from Bob Marino. I found a good video on Highland Hardware's website that explains the intended uses of the varies Festool abrasives. Thought that I might as well start with disc from the same company and branch out from there to try other types and brands.

Thanks for everyone's help.