--- title: The Benefits Of Grit Blasting description: Grit blasting involves abrading an object’s surface by directing a high stream jet of some abrasive medium at it in order to remove contaminants. image: https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/The%20Benefits%20Of%20Grit%20Blasting.png --- Call us: 01945 464 637 [![GLW Engineering & Construction Ltd](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/GLW%20Engineering%20Dec2016/Image/glw-logo21-300x80.png)](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/) # The GLW Engineering Blog [Grit Blasting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/grit-blasting) ## [The Benefits Of Grit Blasting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/the-benefits-of-grit-blasting) ![The Benefits Of Grit Blasting](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/The%20Benefits%20Of%20Grit%20Blasting.png?width=800&name=The%20Benefits%20Of%20Grit%20Blasting.png) [Grit blasting](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/) involves abrading an object’s surface by directing a high stream jet of some abrasive medium at it in order to remove contaminants. One of the most well-known examples is what is commonly called “sand blasting” where a stream of sand particles forms a high velocity stream to remove rust and dirt from an object or a surface such as a concrete path. Usually the stream is dry and is propelled by compressed air but wet blasting is also performed. Grit blasting falls in the middle between shot blasting and soda blasting as regards the degree of abrasiveness it imparts. ## Media Type & Size The granular dimensions of the abrasive medium is categorised by grit size. For example, 80 grit is around 165 microns thick, while 120 grit averages at around 102 microns. The choice of grit size and media depends entirely on the job in hand. At one extreme you have shot blasting where steel shot is fired at the surface and can actually indent the surface and form patterns, such is the force involved and hardness of the medium. At the other extreme is soda blasting that uses literally bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) for extremely delicate and sensitive tasks. Grit blasting falls in between and media can include organic and biodegradable substances such as corn husks and walnut shell as well as inert substances such as ceramics, glass beds and crushed glass. There is no hard and fast rule about what media you should use. It takes experience, trial and error to learn what works best in any given situation. ## Blast Media Recovery Generally speaking, the harder the media easier it is to separate out the contaminants it has removed and then recycle the media while discarding the contaminants. For this reason, shot blasting has a very high recovery rate while soda blasting is the complete opposite with practically nil recovery and recycling. Somewhere in the middle lies grit blasting, with harder media delivering a higher recovery rate than softer or organic options. Silicon carbide and aluminium oxide based grits are considered extremely hard. ## 4 Benefits Of Grit Blasting Grit blasting has become an extremely popular surface treatment method for several reasons: - The equipment needed for grit blasting is relatively inexpensive - It is faster than traditional methods such as sanding down or wire brushing a surface to prepare it - It is also more efficient and does a better job of removing contaminants such as rust, leaving the surface ready for painting - It is relatively inexpensive and many types of abrasive media can be recovered and recycled ## Is Grit Blasting The Best Method For Your Application? Grit blasting is now a generic term for several sub-categories of [treatment methods](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/portfolio). Long gone are the days when literally blasting with sand was the generally accepted method. There are specialist techniques such as dry ice blasting or pencil blasting and many others too. For industrial and commercial applications such as restoring older vehicles and components, grit blasting is very often the standard approach because it works very well. However, it is always best to consult with professionals who will be happy to advise you on the best approach for your particular application. [Contact us today](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/contact/) to ask for more information about our surface preparation services as well as our [powder coating](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/powder-coating/) and hot zinc spraying treatments. [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2730834/e69859af-fa1e-4928-bd48-c55c921b1fc2.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2730834/e69859af-fa1e-4928-bd48-c55c921b1fc2) July 23, 2018 / by [Geoffrey White](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/author/geoffrey-white) ##### Share this entry - [Tweet](https://twitter.com/share) [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2730834/fdece9bc-51e5-43b3-8faa-397370d93e3c.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2730834/fdece9bc-51e5-43b3-8faa-397370d93e3c) ### Subscribe to Email Updates [![New call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/2730834/a5d320f6-811f-48df-ae6c-a627a63dea3d.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/2730834/a5d320f6-811f-48df-ae6c-a627a63dea3d) ### Latest Posts - [![How To Protect Metal Railings From Corrosion](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/metal-railing.jpg "How To Protect Metal Railings From Corrosion") **How To Protect Metal Railings From CorrosionApril 01, 2021 - 04:50 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/how-to-protect-metal-railings-from-corrosion) Rust can not only affect the appearance of [metal railings](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/the-guide-to-railings-handrails), but also their structural integrity, posing a potential safety hazard to users. It isn’t just visible corrosion you need to watch out for. If appropriate preventive steps are not taken, rusting may even occur from the inside, seriously compromising the strength of the railings and causing[...] - [![How To Avoid Rust On Your Steel Balustrades](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/rusty-railing.jpg "How To Avoid Rust On Your Steel Balustrades") **How To Avoid Rust On Your Steel BalustradesMarch 25, 2021 - 04:29 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/how-to-avoid-rust-on-your-steel-balustrades) [Steel is an excellent choice of metal for balustrades](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/suitable-type-of-metal-for-outdoor-railings-and-handrails), as it offers decent resistance to rust and tarnishing as well as an eye-catching appearance that is both sleek and contemporary. However, despite its weather resistant properties, steel is not totally free from corrosion, particularly if it is poorly maintained. - [![Aluminium Or Steel Balustrades: Which Is The Most Sustainable Option?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/metal-balustrades.jpg "Aluminium Or Steel Balustrades: Which Is The Most Sustainable Option?") **Aluminium Or Steel Balustrades: Which Is The Most Sustainable Option?March 18, 2021 - 04:06 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/aluminium-or-steel-balustrades-sustainable-option) When you’re choosing balustrades, handrails, and railings for a project, there are many reasons why you may opt for one material over another. For example, you may prioritise appearance, durability, corrosion resistance, or cost, with the decision likely to be influenced by factors such as the location of the metalwork, the environmental[...] - [![3 Ways That Shot Blasting Can Improve Your Metalwork](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/rusted-metal-blasting.jpg "3 Ways That Shot Blasting Can Improve Your Metalwork") **3 Ways That Shot Blasting Can Improve Your MetalworkMarch 11, 2021 - 03:37 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/3-ways-that-shot-blasting-can-improve-your-metalwork) Shot blasting is an abrasive ‘blast’ surface treatment that uses round metal shots that are propelled under high velocity,[ commonly to polish a metal substrate, to strengthen it, or to repair damaged metalwork](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/refreshing-equipment-with-shot-blasting) by closing cracks or tiny tears. The force required to propel the particles is achieved using a centrifuge or wheel, spun at high[...] - [![Paint Vs Powder Coating For Steel Fabrications](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/paint-cans.jpg "Paint Vs Powder Coating For Steel Fabrications") **Paint Vs Powder Coating For Steel FabricationsMarch 04, 2021 - 03:14 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/paint-vs-powder-coating-for-steel-fabrications) Surface finishing is vital for coating reactive metals such as steel. Without a suitable finish, oxidation can cause rust to form, which is not only unsightly but also threatens to weaken the structure, hastening its premature failure. Surface coatings are, therefore, more than just a way to improve the aesthetics of a [steel fabricated ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/steel-staircase-fabrication-guide)object, as[...] - [![The Latest Trends In Laser Welding And How It Can Save You Money](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/filipa-saldanha-TtOdr8tYtUU-unsplash.jpg "The Latest Trends In Laser Welding And How It Can Save You Money") **The Latest Trends In Laser Welding And How It Can Save You MoneyNovember 13, 2020 - 11:00 AM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/the-latest-trends-in-laser-welding-and-how-it-can-save-you-money) With the rapid advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in recent years, many aspects of manufacture and fabrication will likely be revolutionised in the not-too-distant future. The fully automated laser welding machine, for example, could be on the horizon sooner than you think: able to decide for itself where and how to weld, to identify[...] - [![Manufacturing Or Fabrication? What Are The Differences, And Do They Matter?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/daniel-smyth-03TaAgmtXwM-unsplash.jpg "Manufacturing Or Fabrication? What Are The Differences, And Do They Matter?") **Manufacturing Or Fabrication? What Are The Differences, And Do They Matter?November 06, 2020 - 11:00 AM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/manufacturing-or-fabrication-what-are-the-differences-and-do-they-matter) To many non-specialists, manufacturing and fabrication are simply two workshop-based processes that use various techniques to assemble or produce metal products. Often, the two terms are used interchangeably, with little awareness of the differences. While many of the methods used in manufacturing and fabrication may be similar, the difference[...] - [![How To Guarantee Quality Results From Your Welding & Metal Fabrication Contractor](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/glenn-hansen-VW4xiLRr-do-unsplash.jpg "How To Guarantee Quality Results From Your Welding & Metal Fabrication Contractor") **How To Guarantee Quality Results From Your Welding & Metal Fabrication ContractorOctober 30, 2020 - 11:00 AM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/how-to-guarantee-quality-results-from-your-welding-metal-fabrication-contractor) The quality of the weld is extremely important in any fabrication project, as it guarantees the integrity, durability, and longevity of any structure. Quality control checks during and after welding are vital to ensure that high standards have been achieved. Any weakness in the weld, from tiny holes to splits or cracks, could be disastrous in the[...] - [![Fabrication Using Sheet Metal: Why Thickness Matters For Metal Fabrication Projects](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/craig-davis-sL0TGOevb78-unsplash.jpg "Fabrication Using Sheet Metal: Why Thickness Matters For Metal Fabrication Projects") **Fabrication Using Sheet Metal: Why Thickness Matters For Metal Fabrication ProjectsOctober 23, 2020 - 11:00 AM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/fabrication-using-sheet-metal-why-thickness-matters-for-metal-fabrication-projects) The fabrication of sheet metal is a highly specialised task, requiring expert knowledge, skills, and equipment. If you’re planning to outsource the architectural steelwork for a civil engineering, commercial, or construction project, it’s vital to employ the services of a competent fabricator who can guarantee high-quality finishing that complies[...] - [![What Are The Most Effective Corrosion Prevention Coatings?](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/hubfs/chain-4239167_1920.jpg "What Are The Most Effective Corrosion Prevention Coatings?") **What Are The Most Effective Corrosion Prevention Coatings?October 16, 2020 - 04:48 PM** ](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/what-are-the-most-effective-corrosion-prevention-coatings) Traditional galvanisation and newer hot zinc spray technologies are standard anti-corrosion treatments for vulnerable metals. However, they may not always be desirable or even necessary. Several other corrosion-resistant treatments are found in the form of coatings. The suitability of these will depend on several factors, such as aesthetics,[...] ### Recent Posts ### Posts by Topic - [Structural Steel Fabrication (44)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/structural-steel-fabrication) - [Powder Coating (31)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/powder-coating) - [Handrailing Fabrication (15)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/handrailing-fabrication) - [Shot Blasting (13)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/shot-blasting) - [Metal Fabrication in Norwich (12)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/metal-fabrication-in-norwich) - [Grit Blasting (6)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/grit-blasting) - [Soda Blasting (6)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/soda-blasting) - [Insider (5)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/insider) - [Sand Blasting (5)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/sand-blasting) - [Abrasive Blast Cleaning Methods (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/abrasive-blast-cleaning-methods) - [Balustrade Fabrication (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/balustrade-fabrication) - [Hot Zinc Spraying (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/hot-zinc-spraying) - [Plasma Cutting (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/plasma-cutting) - [Security Gates (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/security-gates) - [Steel Staircase (4)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/steel-staircase) - [Blasting Methods (3)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/blasting-methods) - [Security Gates & Barriers (3)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/security-gates-barriers) - [Welding (3)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/welding) - [Traditional Galvanising (2)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/traditional-galvanising) - [Vacancies (2)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/vacancies) - [Bicycle Park (1)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/bicycle-park) - [Trolleys (1)](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/topic/trolleys) [see all](https://blog.glwengineering.co.uk/the-benefits-of-grit-blasting#) Search this site on Google Search Google © Copyright - GLW Engineering & Construction Ltd - Developed by [Viscribe Ltd](http://www.viscribe.co.uk) - [T & C’s](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/t-cs/) - [Privacy](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/privacy/) - [Smartwater](http://www.glwengineering.co.uk/smartwater/)