ISO 21948:2001

Overview

ISO 21948:2001 - Coated Abrasives - Plain Sheets defines the nominal dimensions, tolerances, active surface designations, and marking requirements for plain sheets of coated abrasives. This international standard applies specifically to plain abrasive sheets used for manual hand sanding or with handheld grinding machines. By harmonizing dimensions and labeling criteria, ISO 21948:2001 supports quality assurance, compatibility, and clear product identification throughout the manufacturing and supply chain process.

Key Topics

• Nominal Dimensions and Tolerances: The standard specifies several standard sizes for plain abrasive sheets, listing corresponding tolerances to ensure consistency.
• Test Conditions: All measurements and limit deviations for dimensions must be verified under controlled conditions-temperature at 20°C ±2°C and relative humidity at 65% ±5%, in accordance with ISO 554.
• Sheet Designation: Provides a standardized method for identifying abrasive sheets, incorporating the product name, reference to ISO 21948, and sheet dimensions.
• Mandatory Marking: Every plain abrasive sheet must be clearly marked with the grain size and either the manufacturer’s identity or registered trademark. This ensures traceability and appropriate use.
• Normative Reference: ISO 21948 uses ISO 554 as the standard for maintaining environmental conditions during product testing.

Applications

ISO 21948:2001 coated abrasive plain sheets are integral to industrial and commercial surface treatment processes. Typical applications include:

• Manual Sanding: Used in woodworking, automotive, and metalworking industries for smoothing, polishing, and finishing surfaces.
• Handheld Grinding Machines: Suitable for both orbital and straight-line sanders, providing versatility in sanding large or intricate surfaces.
• Quality Control and Procurement: Uniform dimensions and markings make it easier for manufacturers and purchasers to specify, source, and verify materials, supporting reliability and reproducibility in production lines.
• International Trade: Enables ease of cross-border sourcing and compliance, reducing confusion in specifications and enhancing global business operations in abrasives.
• Custom Applications: Facilities and craftsmen can confidently use or stock sheets that meet exacting international requirements, knowing performance and compatibility are assured.

Related Standards

To ensure comprehensive quality, ISO 21948:2001 references and works in conjunction with several related international standards:

• ISO 554: Standard atmospheres for conditioning and/or testing-specifies environmental requirements for consistent measurement of dimensions.
• ISO 6344 Series: Coated abrasives grain size analysis, detailing the methods for grain size distribution testing for both macrogrits and microgrits. This series includes:
  • ISO 6344-1: General methods for grain size distribution tests
  • ISO 6344-2: Determination of grain size distribution for macrogrits (P12–P220)
  • ISO 6344-3: Determination of grain size distribution for microgrits (P240–P2500)

Practical Value

Adhering to ISO 21948:2001 guarantees that abrasive plain sheets meet internationally recognized criteria for size, labeling, and performance, facilitating seamless supply chain management and safe, efficient use across diverse industries. When sourcing or specifying abrasive sheets, referencing ISO 21948 ensures compatibility, safety, and reliability-critical elements for manufacturers, suppliers, and end-users operating in competitive and quality-focused markets.