Using aluminum oxide blast abrasive to remove Cerakote

Abrasive blasting is a common and effective method for removing layers of cerakote from a surface, and aluminum oxide is a common way to get the job done. 

Cerakote, which is a ceramic-based coating, is used to protect against wear and corrosion. This is typically difficult to remove without using abrasive blasting. 

Aluminum oxide blasting makes use of an air compressor to propel blast abrasive grains through a nozzle at high velocity onto your chosen project surface. It’s commonly used to remove tough coatings and corrosion.

An efficient way to remove Cerakote without melting your gun in a burn off oven is to use a sandblaster loaded with an abrasive such as: Garnet , Aluminum oxide or – the best option – a superoxalloy. The best grit sizes range from 100 to 120, with a blasting pressure between 35 and 40 PSI.  

Once you have finished blasting all of your parts it is a good idea to clean each part with Acetone and follow the instructions from Cerakote to prepare for the new coating.

The Best Blasting Media for Removing Cerakote

The EpiX and KinetiX line of superoxalloy blast abrasive from 10X Engineered Materials is a new class of advanced abrasive that will not only get rid of the cerakote, but also leave a clean substrate, virtually free of embedded particles — unlike alternatives such as garnets, slags, metals and glass — so the next coating can be applied properly. 

This is possible because of the polymorphous nature of superoxalloy abrasives. Often, this means that the abrasive can complete multiple blasting steps in one – eliminating the need for chemical stripping. 

Beyond their high performance, EpiX and KinetiX superoxalloy abrasives contain zero free silica or leachable heavy metals, making 10X abrasives safer for both workspaces and the environment. Plus, EpiX and KinetiX are more reusable and offer lower dust than other popular abrasives. 

Currently, KinetiX and EpiX are available from abrasive distributors around the US. If you don’t see a distributor near you, contact 10X and we will work with you to get you what you need. EpiX abrasive, which is best for precision applications such as powder coating and medical applications, is also available to purchase directly from the 10X Engineered Materials website.