What Aluminum Oxide blasting grit to use for Airplanes

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 has various applications, including the treatment of airplane parts.

For aviation purposes, many blasters recommend using an abrasive on the softer side like crushed walnut shells, corn cobs, or plastic beads. However,  a new class of abrasives – superoxalloy – can offer significant advantages over traditional blast abrasives. We’ll talk more about superoxalloy at the end of this article.

Harsh abrasives like aluminum oxide, for example, may have a negative effect on the surface being blasted, which is most likely aluminum in this case. By using a harder abrasive, the layers will be removed more efficiently, but the underlying surface could become textured or warped. 

With a softer media, the pressure being applied to the surface won’t be as high and the material therefore won’t be as aggressive on the surface. The downside to this is that the process itself will likely take longer, which could be problematic if you’re working on a time-sensitive project.

It’s also important to consider the grit size of the abrasive. The higher the grit number, the finer the abrasive is, which creates a smooth surface finish. Lower grit numbers mean the abrasives are more coarse, so materials scrape off much quicker.

In the case of working on airplanes, it’s advised to go for a higher grit number rather than a low one. Anything above 100 grit should suffice. Also, start with a low PSI and increase as needed. 

As you can see, there’s quite a bit to take into consideration, but fortunately there’s a far easier method for getting the job done without relying on aluminum oxide. 

The Best Option

10X Engineered Materials has created a line of superoxalloy abrasives that are strong and durable, and won’t leave embedded particles in the surface. 

The EpiX and KinetiX abrasives are made up of polymorphous particles that perform multiple steps of the blasting process at once, making it possible to remove coatings faster and for less.

They are also safe for both you and the environment, with no free silica, no crystalline structures, no heavy metals, and no beryllium. They also resist breakage and can also be reused many times, and are virtually dust-free. 

Currently, KinetiX and EpiX are available from 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.

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.