Platen Pad Material Guide

Material Teflon (thin) Cork (hard) Foam (soft)
Cushioning ★☆☆☆☆ Low – keeps belt rigid and flat ★★★☆☆ Medium – controlled compliance ★★★★★ High – soft and forgiving
Conforms to shape ★☆☆☆☆ Poor – best for flat surfaces ★★★☆☆ Moderate – follows small imperfections ★★★★★ Excellent – wraps around curves and contours
Heat reduction ★★★★★ Excellent – minimises friction and heat build-up ★★★★☆ Very good – absorbs heat and reduces friction ★★★☆☆ Good – lower contact pressure but more belt movement
Belt life ★★★★★ Excellent – reduces friction and belt wear ★★★★☆ Very good – reduces loading and overheating ★★★☆☆ Moderate – increased belt flexing and movement
Stock removal ★★★★★ Excellent – maximum cutting efficiency ★★★★☆ Very good – balanced cutting and control ★★★☆☆ Moderate – lower cutting pressure
Best for Precision grinding, flat weld removal, ceramic belts, heavy stock removal, maintaining sharp edges General stainless fabrication, weld blending, satin finishing, everyday industrial use Decorative finishing, curved surfaces, tubes, architectural stainless, cosmetic polishing