Abrasive blasting is a process in which a media is shot or projected at a surface. The intent is to remove old finishes, paint, burrs, or other imperfections. While many different types of media are available for usage, plastic media blasting abrasives comprise a popular source for performing the tasks necessary for resurfacing or repainting a particular component or surface.
Factors Affecting Choice
Choosing the right plastic media blasting abrasives depends on recognizing two separate but related components of the process: the material to be blasted (both the surface and its substrate) and the abrasives. The selection should consider the following qualities of the material. These are:
• Type: Is it glass, metal, plastic, rubber, or a specific composite?
• Surface: Is the surface smooth or rough?
• Depth: How thick is the coating over the surface and its substrate?
Given equal consideration are the properties and qualities of the abrasive blasting material. These consist of:
- Density: Dense particles produce a deeper profile
- Hardness: A deeper profile is created by the harder media particles
- Shape: The shape affects how intensely the media incises both the coating of the surface and its immediate substrate
- Size: Particle size not only cleans the material quicker while covering more area but also produces a more consistent profile
Choosing Plastic Media
Media blasting abrasives are available in various types, sizes, and shapes. Plastic versions are often the favored option by many industries and institutions as it can be reused for several usages and then in most cases recycled. Maintenance personnel also know plastic media can produce a uniform, smooth result.
