Sand blasting, also known as abrasive blasting, is one of the most effective methods for cleaning, polishing, and preparing surfaces across industries. The secret behind its success lies in the type of abrasive material used. Different abrasives deliver different results, and choosing the right one ensures the best surface finish, efficiency, and durability.
At Aerowheel Surface Finishing, we understand that no two surfaces are the same. That’s why we use a wide range of abrasives to meet specific cleaning and finishing requirements. Let’s take a closer look at the most common abrasives used in sand blasting.
1. Steel Grit
Steel grit is a sharp, angular abrasive that’s excellent for removing tough coatings, rust, and scale. It creates a rough surface profile, making it ideal for applications where a strong paint or coating bond is needed.
✅ Best for: Heavy-duty cleaning, surface preparation, and industrial machinery.
2. Steel Shot
Unlike steel grit, steel shot is round in shape. It’s commonly used for polishing, peening, and achieving a smooth finish. It not only cleans the surface but also improves metal strength through a process called shot peening.
✅ Best for: Automotive parts, aerospace components, and machinery finishing.
3. Aluminum Oxide
Known for its hardness and durability, aluminum oxide is a versatile abrasive. It can be reused multiple times, making it cost-effective. It’s perfect for cleaning metals without causing contamination.
✅ Best for: Rust removal, surface finishing, and non-ferrous metals.
4. Garnet
Garnet is an eco-friendly abrasive that delivers precise cleaning while being less aggressive on surfaces. It produces minimal dust, making it safer for workers and better for the environment.
✅ Best for: Shipbuilding, waterjet cutting, and surface preparation.
5. Glass Beads
Glass beads are spherical and provide a smooth, satin-like finish. They don’t remove much material but are excellent for cleaning without damaging the surface.
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✅ Best for: Stainless steel, aluminum, and delicate components.
6. Silica Sand (Limited Use)
Traditionally, silica sand was widely used in sand blasting. However, due to health hazards like silicosis, its usage has reduced significantly. Safer and more efficient alternatives like garnet and glass beads are now preferred.
✅ Best for: Limited use in non-critical applications.
Choosing the Right Abrasive
The right abrasive depends on:
- The type of surface (metal, concrete, or alloy).
- The level of cleaning required.
- The desired surface profile.
- Environmental and safety considerations.
At Aerowheel Surface Finishing, we carefully select the abrasive that gives the best balance of performance, cost, and safety.
Final Thoughts
Abrasive blasting is not a one-size-fits-all process. The choice of abrasive makes all the difference in achieving the right surface quality and finish. Whether it’s steel grit for tough jobs or glass beads for delicate cleaning, the right material ensures durability, performance, and value.
If you’re looking for professional sand blasting and surface finishing services, Aerowheel Surface Finishing has the expertise and technology to deliver the results you need.
