Steel Shot Abrasives
Trust CESCO® for All Your Steel Shot Abrasive Needs
The grade or size of steel shot will determine the ultimate finish achieved on the surface of the metal. The round ball shape of the steel shot produces a clean, smooth and polished surface through a peening action created by the acceleration of the shot. In a peening application, steel shot is also used to impart compressive strength to torque or load bearing metal parts such as crankshafts, engine turbine blades and heavy-duty springs.
Smaller steel shot will result in a smoother and more polished surface. Larger shot will clean more aggressively but produce a rougher surface. Both air powered and wheel blast systems can be used to accelerate the steel shot onto the surface of the part.
Steel Shot Sizes
Steel shot comes in a range of different sizes to suit various blasting needs. The most common sizes are S170, S230, S280, S330, S390, S550, and S700. The number refers to the diameter of the shot in microns. As the number increases, so does the size of the individual steel shot particles. Larger steel shot sizes like S550 and S700 are well-suited for aggressive cleaning and stripping applications, while smaller sizes like S170 and S230 produce finer finishes.
Choosing the Right Steel Shot Size
When choosing steel shot sizes, you need to consider the type of surface you want to achieve, how much material needs to be removed, and other factors like production efficiency. It's always best to test different sizes on samples first to optimize your process. CESCO®, your Corrosion Control Specialist, can advise you on the best size steel shot for your specific application.
Recycled Steel Shot
Recycled steel shot is widely used as it provides significant cost savings over virgin steel shot. Most used steel shot can be reclaimed, screened to remove dust and irregular shapes, and then reused. This recycling process can be repeated many times before the shot becomes too degraded for reuse. Using recycled steel shot abrasives reduces waste and provides environmental benefits.
Advantages of Steel Shot Abrasives
Steel shot abrasives offer many advantages over other blasting media like sand or slag. The high density of steel shot results in more powerful impact momentum for improved production rates. The low breakdown rate compared to mineral abrasives also results in less dust and contaminants. With proper equipment maintenance and screening, steel shot can be recycled indefinitely.
Work With the Experts at CESCO®
Contact CESCO®, your Corrosion Control Specialist, today to learn more about the steel shot options we offer and to get expert recommendations for your application. We carry an extensive range of both new and recycled steel shot in all common sizes. Our goal as your trusted partner CESCO® is to optimize your blast cleaning or peening process while minimizing operating costs.
Let CESCO®, your Corrosion Control Specialist, handle all your steel shot abrasive needs. With over 50 years of experience, we have the expertise to recommend the right steel shot blast media for your specific application. Contact us today!
