info on blast media

[Blademan]

hope this will help a bit on the diff stuff that can be used..

Blast Media Walnut Shells

Use this abrasive to clean internal parts; any of the soft abrasive material left in the working part with break down with minimal damage. Great for gentle paint and carbon removal from ferrous metals. For use at 80 psi max. Be sure to wear appropriate respiratory protection.

Blast Media Silicon Carbide

Silicon carbide has very sharp edges which make it ideal for removing heavy rust, welding and brazing prep, and for glass etching. 60 grit size. Use at 80-90 psi max. Be to sure to wear an appropriate respirator.

Blast Media Poly Bead

Gentle Poly Abrasive will not harm fragile surfaces and produces less dust. Excellent for stripping paint or powder coating from sheet metal and fiberglass Use at 35-90 psi max. Be sure to wear appropriate respiratory protection.

Blast Media Glass Bead

An all-purpose abrasive for all types of metals and many plastics. Best on softer metals like aluminum and brass. Great for cleaning pistons, engine blocks, and light rust removal with minimal dust. Meets mil spec MIL G9954A for size uniformity and is 70-100 grit size. Use at 60 psi max. Be sure to wear appropriate respiratory protection.

Aluminum Shot Media - Lasts up to 1000 times longer than glass bead or aluminum oxide.

Exotic low dust, air cast aluminum shot media cleans without removing casting details. Effectively cleans without embedding or leaving ferrous contamination. Ideal for aluminum castings, radiator tanks, and other parts where a unique sheen is desired.

Remember the higher the grit the rougher the surface you have and you dont need no more than a enought for the powder to bite on and stay

[FiReBReTHa]

would it be conclusive enough to say that glass beads on some soft aluminum have been known to get embedded in aluminum?

[Whiplash]

Originally Posted by FiReBReTHa

would it be conclusive enough to say that glass beads on some soft aluminum have been known to get embedded in aluminum?

Yes, you are correct.

[Harleydad]

Originally Posted by FiReBReTHa

would it be conclusive enough to say that glass beads on some soft aluminum have been known to get embedded in aluminum?

Yup, if you have to use it, keep the psi at the min. needed to remove material and blast at an angle not straight at the part.

[donafams]

so use alluminum oxide on alluminum ?

[Harleydad]

Originally Posted by donafams

so use alluminum oxide on alluminum ?

Yes, it's better than glass bead for aluminum. Always blast at angle.

[nuttyman]

I always prefer to hit AL with scotch-brite pads with a die grinder or if the piece is large use a larger grinder & pad.