Blasting Media
BLASTING MEDIA SELECTION GUIDE
It is important to know the differences in blasting media, since different abrasive blasting media are required for different applications. Blasting media can be used for purposes such as cleaning, stripping, etching, strengthening and polishing. In addition to the media type grit or mesh size is another important factor to consider for your application. The final choice of media depends on the nature of the work required and on the blasting equipment being used. The blasting media guide below contains a list of the common blasting media we offer for our customers.
Aluminum Oxide
Aluminum Oxide is the most widely used abrasive in blast finishing and surface preparation. Aluminum Oxide is an extremely sharp, long lasting blasting abrasive that can be recycled many times. In addition to the standard brown, Aluminum Oxide is available in 99.5 % pure white grades.
Hardness 8-9,grit size range 12-320, Angular Shape.
Glass Beads
Manufactured from lead free, soda lime -type glass, containing no free silica, glass beads are manufactured into preformed ball shapes. Glass Beads produce a much smoother and brighter finish then angular abrasives. Glass Beads can be recycled up to 30 times.
Hardness 5-6, Grit size range 50-325, Round shape.
Silicon Carbide
Silicon Carbide is the hardest blasting media available, it has a very fast cutting speed. Manufactured to a blocky grain shape that splinters, Silicon Carbide grit can be recycled many more times then any other blasting media. The hardness of Silicon Carbide is ideal for etching glass and stone.
Hardness 9-9.5, Grit size range 16-240, Angular shape.
Plastic Abrasive
Plastic Abrasives are available in a variety of types that deliver quick stripping rates and consistent performance. This media is ideal for stripping coatings and paint from substrates, including aluminum and other delicate metals, composites and plastics. The relative softness of plastic abrasive media makes it ideal for automotive and aerospace blasting applications.
Hardness 3-4, Grit size range 12-80, Soft, angular shape, UREA, Melamine, Acrylic compositions.
Steel Shot
Steel Shot blasting is a popular method for cleaning, stripping and improving a metal surface. Steel Shot is manufactured into a round ball shape that results in a smooth and polished finish. The peening action of the steel shot produces improved compressive strength to metal surface.
Hardness 40-51, Grit size range s-70 to s-780, Spherical shape.
Corn Cob
Corn Cob is an organic, soft blasting grit that is safe for delicate parts and soft substrates. As a preferred blasting media for log homes and other wood surfaces, corn cob offers excellent cleaning and stripping properties without damage to the substrate.
Hardness 4-4.5, Grit size range Extra coarse to Extra fine, ground, angular shape.
Walnut Shell
Walnut Shell is used for applications that require aggressive stripping or cleaning without damage or effect on the underlying substrate. Organic and biodegradable, walnut shell is extremely durable, angular in shape but is considered a soft abrasive. Walnut Shell sees utility in applications such as cleaning hard woods and aircraft and automotive stripping.
Hardness 4.5-5, Grit size range Extra coarse to Extra fine, Angular shape.
