Which abrasive is commonly used for grinding metal or plastic in dental labs?

The choice of sand as an abrasive suitable for grinding metal or plastic in dental labs is notable due to its effectiveness in providing the necessary roughness and durability needed during these processes. Sand typically consists of finely divided rock and mineral particles that can efficiently abrade surfaces, making it an appropriate choice for reshaping or refining metal and plastic components.

While sand is indeed effective, it's essential to consider that other abrasives like pumice, which is more commonly used for dental polishing rather than grinding, do not possess the same aggressive cutting capability. Similarly, ceramic particles and flour of pumice are often selected for specific applications that require finer polishing rather than the initial grinding phase. These materials have different characteristics tailored towards smoothing surfaces rather than removing material quickly.

In summary, sand's composition and abrasiveness make it particularly well-suited for the tasks of grinding in the dental lab environment, allowing for the efficient preparation of materials prior to finishing or polishing.