The blast media and grade required for a particular application is determined primarily by the profile specified and the thickness and type of coating/contaminant to be removed. Always conduct testing on the surface to be cleaned to determine the best grade, given the application-specific performance required. As a rule, use the finest grade that will produce the needed profile and remove the coating quickly.
To produce a 3.5 – 4.5 mil profile on steel (SSPC-AB 1, Grade 4)
Recommended garnet blast media: 36 mesh – ADIRONDACK 36 CG
Frequently used to remove thick coatings, marine fouling (20-50 mils) and rust
To produce a 2.5 – 4.0 mil profile on steel (SSPC -AB 1 Grade 3 and Grade 4)
Recommended garnet blast media: 30/60 mesh – ADIRONDACK 30/60 CG
Frequently used to remove heavy coatings (up to 40 mils) and rust while controlling profile
To produce a 2.5 – 3.5 mil profile on steel (SSPC-AB 1, Grade 3 and Grade 4)
Recommended garnet blast media: 30/60 mesh – ALLTEK 30/60 Plus
Frequently used on new steel and maintenance work on coatings up to 20 mils
To produce a 1.5 – 2.5 mil profile on steel (SSPC-AB 1, Grade 3)
Recommended garnet blast media: 80 mesh – ALLTEK 80 HPA
Frequently used on steel, aluminum and other more sensitive substrates