The wire shaving process produces fibers that have geometric cross sections. The result is that each metal wool fiber has several long, sharp cutting edges. Unlike sandpaper and other grit-based abrasives that scratch away material with sharp points, metal wool fibers perform like thousands of microscopic scrapers or planes on a surface. The result is a smoother surface after sanding and a better result after finishing. Fine metal wools are even used to clean glass and polish fine wood articles.