Cheap powerfile thing, zirconium or cubitron belts?

[graffian]

The brown belt that came with it(80 grit) took my thumbnail down OKish, but is not fast trying to remove some metal. So maybe I should get a few more. I see cubitron, zirconium and aluminium oxide, I know the latter isn’t the best?

 

[Mark 2]

Correct, the major problem with the belts is the joint.
I made a jig to cut down the 72mm ones. Not looked back.

 

[marlinspike]

I've found the blue zirconium ones pretty good. If anything the low grade ones can be too aggressive for paint and rust removal. They'll score the surface deeply if you're not careful. I get mine from Ebay, prices are similar from most sellers though have gone up quite a bit in recent years.

 

[Craig-SM]

Go for ceramic coated belts as they last much longer than blue zirconium ones. They do cost more but the additional life will make them cheaper in the long run. 3M, Norton or Milwaukee.
60G is good for removal without being too aggressive.

 

[pedrobedro]

I tend to use 80 grit zirconium for most things, they last pretty well and remove stock without much marking.

 

[julianthegypsy]

I use 60 grit ones from screwfix. I've had one or two break at the joint but in general they work well and are pretty cheap. 80 might be better for paint but I find 60 great for cleaning up welds etc.