Glass beads, or glass bead abrasives, are most often used in general maintenance and blast cleaning processes. Blasting with glass beads allows the user to clean work pieces without significant surface removal. Due to its spherical shape, glass beads are also used in some peening applications. The shape also lends to a slow break down allowing for multiple turns and impacts.
The shape of glass beads allows for a four-step process in one application because they can clean, finish, peen, and in some cases even deburr. That combination provides a controlled and unique surface finish when compared to other common blasting abrasives. It leaves a nice, bright, satin finish on metallic surfaces.
The wide range of sizes available in glass beads allows for a variety of surface finishing and cosmetic textures. Glass beads are also chemically inert and will not leave contamination, or residue, on surfaces.
Applications:
Cosmetic and satin finishing
Blast cleaning when metal removal from work piece is of concern
Mold cleaning
Automotive restoration
Light to medium peening of metal parts to reduce fatigue
Carbon or heat treat scale removal
Physical Characteristics:
Round shape
5-6 on the Mohs hardness scale
Also available in mil spec, or military specification, sizing
Bulk density is approximately 100 lbs. per cubic foot