Sounds like you are talking about the pads while they are in use. We typically use 2 pads with compound on the rotary, and 1 pad with polish and wax on the PC. We do not like using the foam pad spur as we feel it causes excessive wear even with light pressure. It also depends on the size of the vehicle and condition it is in. We've been able to do my Escalade with 1 pad for polish, but we've used 2-3 on other SUV's, once again paint condition being the major factor.
We just recently converted over to the Edge 2000 system for both the rotary and PC's. Our last order of LC pads have lasted about 60-100 cars depending on which pad we used the most. Our LC white pads tend to get the most use so they would be closer to the 100 vehicle number. They have pretty much reached their life expectency and now will be downgraded to "home use" ie countertops, showers...etc.
Walter
Co-owner