Benefits of Using Glass Beads in Your Blasting Project

A variety of media can be used as blasting abrasives, depending on the application and the substrate to be treated, but since regulations prohibit the use of silica sand, especially due to its association with chronic health conditions, glass beads offer a viable and cost-effective method - an effective alternative.

A gentle solution for sensitive surfaces

Glass beads are a common abrasive media used in blast cleaning. Depending on the size and proper use, it can create an aesthetically pleasing, smooth surface for non-destructive blast preparation and can even delicately provide a clean surface free of corrosion or contamination without significantly affecting the shape or impact of the surface being treated.

Long-lasting and environmentally friendly

Being able to reuse blasting media is an important way to reduce costs and protect the environment. Glass beads can typically be recycled up to 6 times before their effectiveness is reduced, reducing the need to renew the media with each surface treatment and reducing the amount of waste generated. Beads are typically made from recycled glass and are inert, reducing the carbon footprint of your business.

Operator Safety

Unlike silica sand, glass beads do not contain silica, making them a safer alternative for blasting operators. With blasting, concerns about long-term health effects, especially on the respiratory system, are reduced. It remains important to wear the necessary PPE to ensure that the operator is adequately protected.

No reaction with other chemicals

Because glass beads are chemically inert, the process can be safely used on other materials with the confidence that no reaction will occur. This means that glass bead blasting is a reliable and flexible solution for industrial environments.

More information

Glass bead blasting is an efficient, versatile and cost-effective option that can produce an aesthetically pleasing surface on its own or provide a surface suitable for NDT. For more information about our glass bead blasting services, please contact us.