Blasting Media Comparison Chart

Abrasive Blasting Media Chart

Abrasive blasting media come in varied shapes and sizes. Some are sharp, some are round, some are soft, and some are tough. Each type of blasting media leaves a different effect on the surface. Some stick around for quite many uses, while others wear out quickly. The results, cost, and effort all change depending on the media you choose.This chart shows the quirks of common blasting media. From particle size to hardness, you can see how each option behaves. Check the chart to see the finish, how long it lasts, and what it costs. Understand your blasting media, for if you pick the right one, the surface will shine

Media	Aluminum Oxide	Crushed Glass Grit	Glass Beads	Silicon Carbide	Plastic Abrasives	Copper Slag / Iron Silicate
Description	Sharp, long lasting media for fast etching & profiling; Brown/black or White	Silica-free, 100% recycled glass; Efficient, economical stripping	Round, soda-lime glass to produce a bright, satin finish; Minimizes stress on part	Very hard, aggressive cutting media; Ideal for stone, glass and hard surfaces	Abrasive, soft media designed for automotive & aerospace applications	Aggressive, consumable media for fast etching & profiling
Surface Profile	High etch	Medium-high etch	No etch, satin finish	Very high etch	No etch, stripping	Medium-High etch
Working Speed	Fast	Fast	Medium- fast	Very fast	Medium	Fast
Recyclability	High	None; consumable	High	High	High	Low
Surface Removal	Yes	Slight	Slight	Yes	Slight	Yes
Hardness, Moh	8 – 9	5 – 6	5 – 6	9 – 9.5	3 – 4	7.5
Bulk Density	110 lbs/ft³	100 lbs/ft³	95 lbs/ft³	90 lbs/ft³	50 lbs/ft³	150 lbs/ft³

Media	Pumice	Steel Shot	Steel Grit	Corn Cob	Walnut Shells	Nu-Soft Steel Shot
Description	Natural volcanic ash; light-weight, mild abrasiveness	Carbon steel, round spheres designed for polishing and peening applications	Angular, carbon steel for fast stripping & aggressive cleaning	Organic, soft media ideal for soft surfaces such as wood	Angular, organic grit for mildly aggressive stripping w/out damage to surface	Cast steel, spherical. Low hardness. Highly durable for sensitive and soft metal parts.
Surface Profile	Low etch	No etch	High etch	None	Low etch	No etch
Working Speed	Medium- slow	Medium	Medium- fast	Slow	Medium- slow	Fast
Recyclability	Low	Very high	Very high	Low	Low	Very High
Surface Removal	No	No	Moderate	No	Very slight	No
Hardness, Moh	6-7	40-51 HRC	40-65 HRC	4-4.5	4.5-5	3–3.5
Bulk Density	35-40 lbs/ft³	230 lbs/ft³	260 lbs/ft³	40 lbs/ft³	50 lbs/ft³	250 lbs/ft³

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is abrasive blasting media?

Abrasive blasting media are the agents responsible for the controlled process ongoing inside a blast cabinet. This abrasive blasting media cleanses and sculpts surfaces by sheer momentum, guided by air or water pressure. Glass beads, aluminum oxide, crushed shells, and other abrasives are used nowadays. Each media type reacts in a different way on metal, wood, or stone. With the right media, precision and power align beautifully.

Q2. What is the best media for sandblasting?

The best abrasive blasting media depends on the job. Steel shots are best for tough stripping tasks, glass beads for quite smooth finishes, and garnet for eco-conscious blasting. The choice is made based on material sensitivity, the desired finish, and dust tolerance. The best media for sandblasting is the one that obeys the task at hand.

Q3. What are the different types of abrasive blasting media?

An entire range of textures and temperaments is available. You’ll find abrasive blasting media ranging from aggressive grit like silicon carbide to gentle polishers like plastic beads. Other common types include walnut shells, soda, staurolite, and copper slag. Each brings a different force, hard-hitting or subtle, coarse or smooth. Your project dictates the choice of abrasive.

Q4. How do I choose the right abrasive media?

For choosing an abrasive blasting media, you have to know in depth about the surface hardness, contamination level, finish levels, and how eco-friendly the process is. If it is a hard metal, aluminum oxide would be a good choice. If it is a wooden antique, try walnut shells. Assess wisely before you blast to get the right results.

Q5. Can I use abrasive blasting for rust removal?

Absolutely. When chosen correctly, abrasive blasting media can eradicate rust without damaging the surface beneath. Steel grit and aluminum oxide are favored for this mission. Abrasive blasting for rust removal is an incredibly efficient process that eliminates with precision and speed but also ensures a thoroughly cleaned surface, making the entire experience as satisfying as it is effective.

Q6. Is sandblasting media safe to use?

In responsible hands, it is very safe to use. Safety with abrasive blasting media demands masks, gloves, and proper ventilation. Some media, like silica sand, can pose respiratory risks, so always follow protocols. Safe use is about control of air, of particles, and of common sense.