Understanding Abrasive Sizing for Sand Blasting

When it comes to sandblasting abrasives many people in the industry underestimate the importance of using the correctly size abrasive for the job.

First, it’s important to understand what the mesh size means. What’s a 30/60 vs an 80 mesh? These numbers refer to the physical size of the abrasive particles as to relate to a linear inch. 30 mesh means you’ve got thirty abrasive participles in a line that take up an inch. 80 mesh can fit eighty particles in that same inch. So the higher the number the smaller the abrasive particle. It’s the same as sandpaper.

When you have a 30/60, all the abrasive particles are supposed to be in that size range between 30-60 mesh.

The size of the abrasive particles have a large impact on your project results. The larger the particle typically the larger the profile you create. If you create too much profile, you waste paint.

Other points to consider are the consistency of the particle’s size. If your abrasive particles are more consistent, you can meter the abrasive more efficiently with an abrasive metering valve, saving you money.

Some abrasives have names and not size. Like medium? NewSteel? GX2?

Talk to your BlastOne rep before purchasing your abrasive to make sure you have the most productive abrasive for your product.