Like steel shot, steel grit is a very common metallic blasting abrasive. Grit steel is different from steel shot in that it is randomly shaped and angular. Steel grit, given its sharp shape, will etch or erode surfaces.
Grit steel comes in a variety of shapes and levels of hardness. It has a high bulk density like steel shot and can have wear-and-tear effects on equipment if it is not properly outfitted to handle the media.
Steel grit is sized via a screening process. A size of steel grit will contain a variety of particles within a set range for that given size. The larger the size number, the smaller the steel grit particle.
As with any steel media, ferrous contamination against the surface being blasted will occur. Because of its durability and low-attrition rate, steel grit is a popular choice in wheel blast equipment and properly outfitted blast rooms.
Steel Grit Abrasive Applications:
- Producing uniform, matte finish with a sharp, coarse texture
- Blast cleaning and profiling of steel and other hard surfaces
Steel Grit Characteristics:
- Angular, random shapes
- Bulk Density – approx. 300 lbs. per cubic foot
- Hardness Ranges:
- GS (40-51 HRC)
- GM (47-56 HRC)
- GL (54-61 HRC)
- GH (> 60 HRC)
- Grit Size Range: G16 – G120
Frequently Asked Questions
What is steel grit for shot blasting?
Steel grit is an angular, metallic blasting abrasive used to clean, profile, and prepare hard surfaces for coatings and finishing. Unlike rounded abrasives, steel grit’s sharp, irregular shape aggressively etches surfaces on impact, creating the anchor pattern coatings need to bond effectively.
It’s available in a wide range of sizes (G16 to G120) and four hardness grades (GS, GM, GL, and GH), giving operators precise control over surface profile depth and finish texture. Steel grit has a bulk density of approximately 300 lbs. per cubic foot and a low attrition rate, making it a cost-efficient and recyclable option that holds up to demanding production environments. It’s a particularly popular choice in wheel blast equipment and properly outfitted blast rooms.
One notable advantage: steel grit can achieve a comparable surface profile to other abrasives at lower air blasting pressure, which reduces equipment wear and operating costs over time.
What is the difference between steel shot and steel grit?
The core difference comes down to shape, and shape drives everything else. Steel shot is spherical and smooth, which means it produces a peened, relatively smooth surface finish. It is the go-to choice for blast cleaning applications where the goal is to clean or prepare a surface without creating deep anchor patterns—foundry castings, forged parts, structural steel, and shot peening all fall into this category.
Steel grit is angular and randomly shaped, which gives it a much more aggressive cutting action. Where shot produces a smooth, uniform profile, grit etches the surface and creates a rougher anchor pattern that is ideal for coating adhesion. Grit is frequently used in air blast rooms for parts with complex geometry or difficult-to-reach areas, and it is a common choice for structural steel applications like ship and railcar manufacturing. The two are sometimes used together (a shot/grit blend) when an application calls for a balance of cleaning speed and surface profile.
How do I determine what hardness of steel grit I need for my application?
Steel grit is available in four hardness grades, each suited to different application demands:
- GS (40-51 HRC): The softest grade. A good starting point for general surface preparation on standard steel. It’s less aggressive on equipment and works well when a moderate surface profile is acceptable.
- GM (47-56 HRC): A mid-range option that balances profile aggressiveness with equipment wear. Common in general industrial and structural steel applications.
- GL (54-61 HRC): A harder grade that delivers a more aggressive cut and deeper anchor profile. Well-suited for heavy-duty cleaning and applications that require strong coating adhesion.
- GH (greater than 60 HRC): The hardest grade available. Used when maximum cutting speed and surface profile depth are required, such as removing dense rust, mill scale, or multiple coating layers from hard steel.
As a general rule, harder grades cut faster and produce deeper profiles but put more demand on equipment. The right choice depends on the substrate hardness, desired surface profile, coating system requirements, and your equipment setup. If you’re unsure which grade fits your process, our technical team can help! Connect with us to discuss your application.
