DIFFERENT TYPES OF ABRASIVES

Many professional detailers don't know or understand the differences between different types of compounds.  Some assume it simply has to do with cut, and just cut.  But there is much more to a compound than just its initial cut.  Compounds are a combination of abrasives and a carrier liquid.  Both play a major role in the effectiveness of the compound along with the working technique.  In this article, we are going to look into the two types of abrasives found in compounds along with how they affect your technique and results.

DIMINISHING VS. NON-DIMINISHING

The idea behind diminishing and non-diminishing abrasives is very straight forward. A diminishing abrasive will break down over time and slowly become less and less aggressive while compounding.  A non-diminishing abrasive will hold its cut the entire time and not get any less aggressive.  Pretty simple right?

SO WHAT IS SMAT and DAT?

SMAT and DAT are both abbreviations for two different types of abrasive technologies (diminishing or non-diminishing).

SMAT stands for Super Micro Abrasives Technology

DAT stands for Diminishing Abrasives Technology

WHAT IS BETTER?

Both have their uses in the industry and it is arguable which is better.  What this comes down to is the techniques and methods you are more comfortable with.  99% of Meguiars compounds use SMAT.  They feel this is easier for the consumer to use and become comfortable with.  This is because with DAT products, you must work the compound down until the abrasive is fully broken down.  If you only buff for a few seconds, and the abrasive has not diminished, you are rubbing in a very strong abrasive into the paint when wiping away.  This can cause even more swirls and scratches than you intended to remove.   But some professionals many argue that DAT compounds are easier as you can tell when the product is ready to be wiped.

WHAT COMPOUNDS ARE SMAT

Many modern and easy to use compounds are SMAT. Many manufactures are also switching to SMAT.  Although it is common for compounds to be a hybrid of SMAT and DAT.

•     M105 Ultra Cut Compound
•     M205 Ultra Finishing Polish
•     D151 Paint Reconditioning Cream
•     Ultimate Compound
•     ScratchX 2.0
•     SwirlX
•     Optimum Hyper Compound Spray
•     Optimum Hyper Polish Spray

WHAT COMPOUNDS ARE DAT

• Menzerna PG1000
• Menzerna SI1500
• Menzerna PF2500
• Menzerna SF4500