Removing a surface layer and obtaining the right finish requires the use of specific abrasive material. One type is bead blasting media. It is available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and types. The bead composition is created to produce the desired result when used on various surfaces.
Three Types of Bead Blast Media
There are several ways to obtain the right surface finish. Bead blasting is one option. If this is the choice, the most common bead composition are these three materials: steel, glass, or plastic beads. Each have their place.
- Steel Beads: These are hard, durable abrasives. The most common purpose is to remove unwanted textures and clean contaminants. They function well at finishing hard metal surfaces.
- Glass Beads: These are less hard and abrasive than steel beads are. This is a more common bead blast media. The surface left from this type of bead blasting media is uniform with a smooth finish. However, the results are variable. They depend upon the size of the glass beads. For a satin or “dull” finish, operators use fine glass beads. For a rougher finish, uniform in its appearance, coarser glass bead media are employed.
- Plastic Beads: Plastic beads are considered the most innovative blast media material and the one that achieves consistently desired results. Most plastic media is made of recycled material and can be recycled, too. It is also typically able to be used in many cycles compared to other bead materials. The levels of hardness can vary for plastic bead media depending on the blend.
Bead Blasting Media
Bead blast media is a means of producing a specific type of finish. While several different types are available for use, three remain the most popular. These are steel, glass, and plastic beads. Contact a blast media manufacturer or supplier to learn which may be the best for you.
