Still waiting for my diamond grinding book to arrive. So, I started googling around and pondering sanding disks, pads, and grit.
It makes sense that the 6" carbide sanding disks wear so quickly. Only out on the edge is there 6" of running space. All in all, sanding disks have very little surface area and must wear out quickly.
So, if a sanding belt can make use of its entire length, I think it reasonable to think the belt will last at least twice the time that a disk would. Ignoring that the old timers sanded dry, I think this explains why they used equipment with very long belts. I think the belts got shorter once diamond got more popular.
Something interesting I read on sanding with diamond is that as the diamond sanding belt is used up, it cuts slower but not finer. That's something that makes carbide difficult to sand with. It becomes finer as it is worn down.
Another thing I read was that diamond grit is cheaper than a diamond belt but is harder to work with. Considering that diamond belts are pretty pricey, I think I'm willing to work harder.
Last thing I found while googling around -- the reason that a soft backing is used when sanding cabs is to avoid making facets. So, in using such a light touch on the 400 grit, did I make an artificial flat lap? Thing is I can't push too hard either or else the carbide is used up in under two minutes and I risk hitting the backing plate and making facets that way.
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