Choosing a sandblasting media can be a daunting exercise for newbie auto body services. You have to look at different sandblasting particles, ranging from organic, metal, silicate, and plastic media. Each material is suitable for specific tasks, which can be distinguished by abrasive requirements. That said, you should understand that the abrasive properties of a medium affect the anchor pattern, a crucial aspect of sandblasting. This article highlights the critical abrasive properties of sandblasting media.

Shape

Sandblasting media come in different forms, which determines their abrasiveness. Round sandblasting particles are the least abrasive because they do not have sharp angles. It means that round sandblasting media do not cut deep into metal surfaces. Consequently, particles with rounded shapes are suitable for sandblasting projects involving delicate metal surfaces. Excellent examples of round sandblasting media include smooth glass beads and silica sand. On the other hand, coarser media have an angular or sub-angular shape, making them more abrasive. The sharp edges dig deeper into a metal surface. Coal slag and crushed glass are the perfect examples of coarse sandblasting media. Therefore, check the shape of the medium you choose since it significantly influences sandblasting results.

Density

Sandblasting media have varying densities, which play a significant role in their effectiveness. Denser particles have a lot more mass per unit volume, exerting more pressure upon impact than less dense sandblasting media. It means that sandblasting media comprising denser particles dig deeper, making them the perfect choice for highly abrasive car surface treatment, such as rust removal. Conversely, less dense particles compress easily upon impact; therefore, they are only suitable for paint removal or light surface cleaning. Additionally, denser particles transfer more kinetic energy laterally, ensuring that the bouncing media strips adjacent layers of paint, rust, or dirt. Consequently, it speeds up a sandblasting exercise compared to less dense particles.

Hardness

Most sandblasting beginners think that using the hardest media they can find is efficient. Unfortunately, it is not always the case because particles that are too hard tend to break easily upon impact since they are brittle. Consequently, they lose some kinetic energy, reducing their efficiency on car panel surfaces. However, it does not take away the fact that hard particles penetrate deep into a metal surface. It might explain why beginners should start with sandblasting particles of minimum hardness. Although you expend more energy, it is easier than undoing deep gorges left behind by hard and highly abrasive particles.

Reach out to a professional to learn more about sandblasting.