4 Advice to Choose a abrasive industrial supplies

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Why is choosing the right abrasive media for the job so important?crush

If you use a mismatched abrasive for a blasting job, you may end up having to redo the job, because the anchor pattern is incorrect, or cause unwanted damage to the blasted surface.

There are several types of abrasive blasting applications: cleaning, finishing, and surface prep for coatings, to name a few. By using the appropriate type of abrasive media, along with the right type of delivery, wet or dry blast, direct pressure or siphon blast, you will set yourself up for a successful, profitable blasting job.

Table of Contents

Blasting for Surface Preparation and Finishing

Selecting the right abrasive media for surface prep is vital. This is because different media types have different characteristics, and create different surface profiles.

The anchor pattern that an abrasive creates will determine how effectively a coating bonds to a prepared surface.

What type of anchor pattern you need to create to apply a coating depends on the surface being treated.

Factors to Consider When Selecting An Abrasive

Some of the things you should consider when choosing an abrasive are hardness, density, shape of the abrasive, the type of profile the abrasive will leave, friability, how many times you can recycle the abrasive, and overall cost.

Mohs Hardness

One of the things abrasives are measured by is the Mohs Hardness Scale. This hardness scale was created by German mineralogist and geologist Freidrich Mohs.

How the scale works is the lower the number, the softer the mineral. The higher the number, the harder the mineral. Talc is a 1, diamond is a 10. Higher number materials can scratch or etch lower number materials.

Here&#;s the Mohs hardness for several popular abrasives.

AbrasiveMohs HardnessAluminum Oxide9Crushed Glass5 to 6Glass Beads5 to 6Garnet7.5 to 8.5Silicon Carbide9 to 9.5Nickel Slag7Copper Slag7Steel Shot8Steel Grit8Plastic Abrasive3 to 4Staurolite7 to 7.5Sodium Bicarbonate2.5Walnut Shell4 to 5Corn Cob4 to 4.5

The softer the abrasive, the finer the finish will be. Harder abrasives are useful for removing certain types of corrosion and rust. Softer abrasives are best for cleaning up grease, grime, and removing light coatings. Softer abrasives are preferred when you do not want to leave an anchor pattern in the substrate.

Also, the more pressure you blast with, the velocity and force the abrasive will be thrown with. You can always adjust the blasting pressure, but you cannot change the characteristics of the abrasive itself. For that reason, it is important to look at the shape, as well as the hardness of an abrasive.

Density Plays a Role in Abrasive Blasting

Blasting abrasives each a different density. In simplest terms, the more dense a molecule is, the tighter the atoms are packed together. The denser the substance, the more kinetic energy it can hold.

The denser the particle, the more impact it has over a smaller area, meaning a deeper surface profile. Less dense particles create a less deep profile, since they hit with less force. (Speed + mass = force of impact).

Density is measured in specific gravity, with water being a 1.0 SG. The more dense a substance is, the higher specific gravity it will have.

AbrasiveDensity (Specific Gravity)Walnut Shell1.2 to 1.35Corn Cob1.2 to 1.4Plastic Abrasive1.5Sodium Bicarbonate2.2Glass Beads2.5Crushed Glass2.5Copper Slag2.8 to 3.6Nickel Slag2.8 to 3.8Silicon Carbide3.2 to 3.22Staurolite3.6Garnet3.5 to 4.3Aluminum Oxide3.94 to 3.96Steel Shot4.8 to 7.8Steel Grit4.8 to 7.8

How The Shape of an Abrasive Affects the Surface Profile

There are four basic shapes in abrasives: angular, sub-angular, sub-rounded, and rounded.

Angular abrasives have many facets, and several jagged faces and vertices. Examples of angular abrasives are crushed glass and certain types of slag. Angular abrasives are good for stripping corrosion and rust.

Sub-angular abrasives have some jagged edges, but less than angular types. Some abrasives that fall in this category include garnet and plastic urea.

Sub-rounded abrasives are not quite smooth, and the jagged edges are almost gone. This type of abrasive include staurolite and walnut shells.

Rounded abrasives are smooth, or may even be spherical. Glass beads or steel shot would be examples of rounded abrasives. Usually, rounded abrasives are used for removing mill scale (from hot rolled steel) or thin factory coatings.

Types of Anchor Patterns and Surface Profiles

As the blast media hits the surface, it creates substrate profiles in the shape of the abrasive.

Rounded abrasives create a dimpled profile, like the surface of a golf ball. This is also known as peening.

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If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Hengxuan Abrasive.

Angular and sub-angular abrasives create deeper, more pronounced anchor patterns. When the blasted abrasive hits the surface, two things happen: an indentation is made in the surface, and part of the surface is pushed up around the indentation. For every action, there is an opposite and equal reaction.

The indentations in the surface are known as valleys; the part of the surface pushed upwards are known as peaks. The distance between the top of the peak and bottom of the valley is known as a depth profile.

Each coating has a specific depth profile that must be achieved for optimal bonding. This is the surface roughness, or anchor pattern that best allows the coating to set. Ideally, the coating will cover the peaks and fill the valleys.

If the peaks are too high, they may push up through the coating, and rust will prematurely form. If the depth profile is not deep enough the coating may not adhere correctly, and prematurely erode. Ideally, your applied coating will cover the peaks and fill the valleys.

The size of the abrasive, as well the shape, has an effect on the resulting anchor profile.

Considering The Mesh Size of the Abrasive

Generally speaking, it is best to use the finest abrasive available that will create the necessary surface profile.

Abrasives are usually measured in grit size, microns, or mesh size.

Grit Size to Microns to Mesh

Grit SizeMesh USSMicrons (Avg)Inches (Avg)#43.~.187#~.157#~.132#~.111#.087#.073#12100.063#.053#16140.043#20169400.037#24206860.027#.022#36304830.019#46403560.014#54453050.012#60502540.010#.008#80701650.#90801450.#1001001220.#1201201020.#150140890.#180170760.#220200630.#24020050-53.50.

You can also find a more complete grit size to microns to mesh to inches chart here.

Recycles and Total Cost

Some blasting abrasives, like aluminum oxide or silicon carbide, cost more up front, but are economical in the long run, because they can be recycled many times.

Other types of abrasive blast media, like crushed glass or metal slag, are primarily used for outdoor blasting, and meant to be used and cleaned up. These are usually cheaper than other blast media, but only good for a few recycles in a blast cabinet or blast room.

Some abrasives are in the mid-range of cost and recycles. Glass beads or plastic urea both fit this description.

Consider what types of abrasive blasting jobs you do most frequently, and what type of media you need to stock to be profitable and efficient.

Abrasive Recycle Rate by Media TypeAbrasive TypeMax Impact Pressure (Siphon)Max Impact Pressure (Direct Pressure)Cold Roll Steel Part HardnessRecycle Uses AverageGlass Beads80 PSI40 PSIB72 to B usesAluminum Oxide90 PSI45 PSIB72 to B usesSilicon Carbide80 PSI40 PSIB72 to B to 100 usesSteel Shot130 PSI100 PSIB72 to B usesPlastic Urea80 PSI40 PSIN/A30 usesWalnut Shells70 PSI35 PSIN/A4 to 5 usesSodium Bicarbonate70 PSI40 PSIN/ASingle UseSlag50 PSI25 PSIN/A2 to 3 usesGarnet60 PSI30 PSIN/A4 to 5 uses

Abrasive Media Comparative Chart

There are many types of abrasives for many different types of blasting applications. This chart compares the most common abrasives for a variety of factors.

AbrasiveMohs HardnessDensityShapeMesh SizesFriabilityRecyclesCostSourceAluminum Oxide93.94 to 3.96Angular / Sub Angular12 to 325Low to Med50$$$MfgCrushed Glass5 to 62.5Angular30 to 325Med1 to 3$MfgGlass Beads5 to 62.5Rounded30 to 325Med30$$$MfgGarnet7.5 to 8.53.5 to 4.3Sub Angular / Sub Round8 to 150Med4 to 5$$$NatSilicon Carbide9 to 9.53.2 to 3.22Angular8 to 325Low70 to 100$$$$MfgNickel Slag72.8 to 3.8Angular12 to 80High2 to 3$B-PCopper Slag72.8 to 3.6Angular12 to 80High2 to 3$B-PSteel Shot84.8 to 7.8Rounded7 to 120High100+$$$MfgSteel Grit84.8 to 7.8Angular / Sub Angular10 to 200High100+$$$MfgPlastic Abrasive3 to 41.5Sub Angular12 to 80Med to High30$$$MfgStaurolite7 to 7.53.6Sub Rounded20 to 120Med2 to 3$$NatSodium Bicarbonate2.52.2Sub Rounded70 to 220Very HighSingle Use$$MfgWalnut Shell4 to 51.2 to 1.35Sub Rounded / Sub Angular6 to 100Med-High4 to 5$$$B-PCorn Cob4 to 4.51.2 to 1.4Sub Angular8 to 40Med-High4 to 5$$B-P

If you have any questions, please contact us, and we&#;ll be happy to help you make the best choice for your needs.

Abrasive industrial supplies are essential for a variety of applications, from polishing furniture to sandblasting industrial machinery. Choosing the right type of abrasive supplies is crucial to achieving the right results for any project. In this article, we will explain how to select the right abrasive industrial supplies for your specific application, discuss the different types of abrasive materials and consider the environment and application during the selection process. We will also discuss the benefits of selecting the right abrasive supplies and provide an overview of the various types available. Finally, we will provide some tips for selecting the right vendors and evaluating vendors prior to purchase. By following the advice in this article, you will gain an understanding of the complexities involved in selecting the right abrasive industrial supply for your project.

How to Select the Right Abrasive Industrial Supplies

Selecting the right abrasive industrial supplies requires an analysis of the desired outcome, the environment, and the application. Firstly, it is important to establish specifications, including the type of material, size, grade, and grit type. After this, consideration can be given to the different types of abrasive materials such as diamond, aluminum oxide, silicon carbide and ceramic. Additionally, it is important to take into account the environment and application of the abrasive. For instance, materials intended for external abrasive applications need to be able to withstand different types of weathering and wear. Furthermore, it is beneficial to consider the type of work being done and the required finish. By carefully assessing these criteria and selecting the appropriate abrasive, you can achieve results that are of the highest quality.

Establishing Specifications

Establishing specifications is a key step to selecting the right abrasive industrial supplies. When establishing specifications, factors such as the type of material, size, grade and grit type should be considered. It is also important to think about the environment and application in which the abrasive supplies will be used. Different materials may be appropriate for different applications, and the particular environmental conditions should be taken into account when making the selection. For instance, materials intended for external abrasive applications need to be able to withstand different types of weathering and wear. Additionally, the desired outcome and type of work being done should be taken into account when selecting the right abrasive industrial supplies. Establishing these specifications provides a basis to confidently make the right selection.

Consider the Different Types of Abrasive Materials

When selecting abrasive industrial supplies, it is important to consider the different types of abrasive materials available. Examples of commonly used materials include diamond, aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, and ceramic. Each of these materials has different advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to research the materials in order to understand their properties. Aluminum oxide is widely used for deburring and polishing due to its fast, cool cutting action. Silicon carbide is used for grinding hard and brittle materials, as it is not easily broken. Ceramic is best suited for applications involving grinding sharp edges, as it features a sharper, more hard-wearing cutting surface that allows for precision grinding. By understanding the characteristics of each of the different types of materials, it is possible to make an informed decision when selecting the right abrasive industrial supplies.

Consider the Environment and Application

Consideration of the environment and application is an essential part of the process when selecting the right abrasive industrial supplies. Firstly, the environment in which the abrasive supplies will be used should be taken into account, as this can have an effect on the performance and durability of the material. Additionally, the application should be considered in order to ensure that the right grade of abrasive is chosen. For instance, basic grade abrasives are great for removing geometric shapes and grinding edges, intermediate grades are suitable for grinding medium grades and deburring, and advanced grade abrasives may be needed for skillful detailing. By taking into account the specific environment and application of the abrasive supplies, the right material can be secured for the job.

Buying Abrasive Industrial Supplies

When buying abrasive industrial supplies, it is important to take into account a few key factors in order to get the best results. Research potential vendors to ensure that the companies have a good reputation, and make sure that they have the necessary experience in supplying the specific type of abrasive that is needed. It is also a good idea to evaluate vendors prior to purchase. Look for factors such as customer service, pricing, selection, and delivery times. Additionally, make sure to get product samples to evaluate and do some tests to ensure that the abrasive supplies meet your needs. By taking the time to properly evaluate vendors and products, you can make a decision that is right for your specific application.

Research Potential Vendors

When buying abrasive industrial supplies, it is important to research potential vendors to ensure that you receive the right product. Evaluation of the vendor should begin by researching their reputation and history of supplying quality abrasive materials. Consider the size of the vendor and their stock levels, and ensure that they have the relevant experience in providing the right product. Ask questions about the type of abrasive materials used and the methods of delivery, as well as the terms of warranty and money back guarantee for products that do not meet the project&#;s requirements. By properly researching potential vendors, you can rest assured that the right abrasive supplies are being purchased for your specific application.

Evaluate Vendors Prior to Purchasing

Evaluating vendors prior to purchasing abrasive industrial supplies is essential in order to ensure that you select the right product for your project. It is important to consider factors such as customer service, pricing, selection and delivery times. Additionally, it is beneficial to ask specific questions about the abrasive material being supplied and the quality control measures in place. Find out what type of abrasive is being supplied and the methods used to ensure that the product meets the project requirements. Furthermore, inquire about the vendor&#;s return policy in the event that the abrasive supplies do not meet the standards required. Taking the time to evaluate potential vendors prior to purchase gives you the assurance of finding the right abrasive supplies for your specific application.

Get Product Samples for Evaluation

After researching potential vendors and evaluating them prior to purchase, it is important to get product samples to evaluate. Using product samples allows you to test the abrasive material for quality, safety and usability. Samples can also be used to evaluate the various sizes, grades and grit type of the abrasive material, ensuring that it meets the desired specifications. Furthermore, it provides an opportunity to compare different brands and materials to ensure the best product is being used. By obtaining product samples and testing them for the right product for the specific application, you can guarantee a successful project outcome.

Conclusion

Careful selection of the right abrasive industrial supplies is essential for achieving the desired results. Establishing specifications, considering the different types of materials available and taking into account the environment and application are all key steps to selecting the right abrasive. Furthermore, researching potential vendors and evaluating them prior to purchase, as well as obtaining product samples for testing and evaluation, will provide the assurance of selecting the right abrasive supplies for your specific application. Taking the time to carefully assess your project requirements provides the advantage of finding the optimal solution, ensuring that you receive the best results possible.

The Advantages of Careful Selection

Careful selection of the right abrasive industrial supplies offers a range of advantages. It helps to ensure that the right product for the specific application is chosen, reducing the risk of failure or inefficiency. Additionally, careful selection can result in savings in both time and money. By evaluating vendors and obtaining product samples for testing and evaluation, costly mistakes can be avoided. Furthermore, thorough selection provides time to consider the different types of materials and the environment and application of the abrasive, enabling the optimal selection of supplies. Selecting the right abrasive industrial supplies through careful selection and evaluation offers great benefits, allowing for the successful completion of projects with quality results.