Steel Grit: High Carbon Steel Grit by W Abrasives™

Steel grit is utilized in the industrial sector for the preparation of metallic surfaces prior to the application of coatings of in desanding and descaling applications in foundries and forging. It is designed to remove existing coatings, rust, sand, scale and other contaminants, creating a clean, rough surface texture. This process enhances the adhesion of subsequent coatings, ensuring their longevity and effectiveness.

Steel grit comes in various hardness levels to suit different applications. General hardness ranges from 40 to 65 HRc, 40-51 HRC is for softer applications like removing softer coatings without damaging the underlying surface, while harder steel grit, up to a minimum of 60 HRC, is preferred for more aggressive surface preparation tasks, such as removing tougher coatings or creating a profile on harder materials.

Steel grit is categorized into different grades based on hardness. It includes GP (General Purpose) for softer grit, GB and GL (greater hardness ranges) for a medium , and GH for the hardest grit. Each greade servers different needs and are suitable for specific applications.

The main difference lies in shape and application. Steel shot is spherical and ideal for peening or removing light scale and sand, while steel grit, with its angular shape, is more effective for surface preparation and cleaning application, where it can etch the metal surface to improve coating adhesion.

The softer GP range is perfect for shot blast turbines aimed at preserving delicate surfaces. In contrast, harder steel grit like GB is somewhat more aggressive, making it suitable for typical surface preparation. GL, being harder, is best suited for descaling, while the hardest range of steel grit, GH, proves effective in rough and heavy surface treatment processes.

The chemical composition of steel grit typically contains carbon (C), silicon (Si), and manganese (Mn). These elements are controlled three times for each production batch to meet strict internal quality standards, ISO standards, and industry norms. The high carbon content ensures hardness and durability, whereas manganese and silicon contribute to the grit’s strength and abrasive properties. Sulfur (S) and phosphorus (P) levels are kept to a minimum to prevent brittleness in the steel.

Our steel grit comes in a variety of sizes, and sizing is determined by a numbering system ranging from G12 (larger, coarser particles) to G120 (smaller, finer particles). This range allows for selection based on the desired surface finish and the specific requirements of the surface preparation task, from aggressive cleaning and profiling to more delicate operations. Typical sizes include, from largest to smallest: G12, G14, G16, G18, G25, G32, G40, G50, G80, G120.

The numbers in steel grit sizes, such as G25, G40, G80, or G120, correspond to the grit’s mesh size or the number of holes per linear inch in the screen through which the grit is sized.

Our steel grit adheres to various industry standards, such as WAE, SAE J444, SAEJ445, SAE J1993, ASTM D4940, and SSPC-AB3, ensuring quality and reliability.

The minimal chloride and salt levels, below 50 μS/cm, reduce the risk of surface contamination, ensuring extended life for coatings and paints.