Glass beads (Silica sand) are not only well-known in the road marking industry but also widely used as auxiliary materials in the metal polishing field. They are highly effective in cleaning surface imperfections and enhancing the overall brightness and aesthetic appearance of workpieces. However, not everyone knows how to choose high-quality glass beads for optimal polishing performance. Let’s explore the following guide for more detailed information!
1. Key characteristics of glass bead (Silica sand) polishing media
In the metal polishing industry, glass beads are essential auxiliary materials commonly used with sandblasting machines to enhance surface treatment efficiency. They help remove surface imperfections and restore a bright, refined finish to metal products
Glass beads
Structure
| SiO2 | 72.5% | Mg0 | 3.3% |
| Al2O3 | 0.4% | Na2O | 13.7% |
| CaO | 9.8% | K2O | 0.1% |
| FeO | 0.2% | Fe2O3 | 0.2% |
The main component of glass beads is SiO₂. In its natural state, it exists as an inert mineral and is typically extracted through screening and washing processes.
Size Chart
| GB3 425-850 ( Microns) | GB9 106-212 ( Microns) |
| GB4 250-425 ( Microns) | GB10 75-150 ( Microns) |
| GB6 180-300 ( Microns) | GB11 53-106 ( Microns) |
| GB8 150-250 ( Microns) | GB12 45-90 ( Microns) |
2. Applications of glass beads (Silica sand) in metal polishing
Glass beads are used to clean metal surfaces, polish workpieces, and enhance their appearance, even on parts with complex shapes or sharp edges. Some of the most common applications of glass beads include:
- Remove surface defects such as paint, varnish, scratches, rough spots, and carbon deposits.
- Clean a wide range of surfaces, including hard chrome, plated chrome, iron, steel, stainless steel, as well as machine parts like engine housings, cylinder heads, pistons, and valves.
- Enhance the corrosion resistance of mechanical components such as springs, turbines, and gears.
- Clean and improve surface aesthetics without causing deformation to the product.
- Increase anti-reflective properties for specialized tools such as surgical instruments, electronic device surfaces, and windshield wiper arms.
- Polish automotive, motorcycle, and aircraft parts.…
Glass beads (Silica sand) are widely used in the metal polishing industry.
3. Notes when selecting glass beads (Silica sand)
Surface of the workpiece to be treated
Glass beads can be used to process various types of surfaces. However, they deliver the best results when applied to workpieces with a hardness equal to or slightly higher than that of the glass beads themselves. Choosing the proper hardness compatibility helps minimize the risk of surface deformation and prevents the rapid wear or corrosion of the media
Glass bead size
The appropriate bead size should be selected based on the polishing requirements of each type of workpiece, specifically:
- Workpieces with sharp edges or complex shapes should use small-sized beads.
- Iron and stainless-steel parts should use medium-sized beads.
- Cast components and automotive parts are best suited for large-sized beads.
Note: The larger the glass bead size, the rougher the blasted surface will be, and the more paint will be consumed afterward. Therefore, operators should carefully consider the cleaning requirements of the workpiece before selecting the bead size to avoid unnecessary paint waste.
Where to buy high quality glass beads (Silica sand)?
To achieve the best polishing results, choosing high quality auxiliary materials is essential. Naturally mined glass beads are in raw form and must undergo further processing, usually performed by specialized manufacturers abroad, before being ready for use. Therefore, to ensure quality and consistency, it is important to select glass beads from a reputable importer and distributor.
With more than 15 years of experience in the metal polishing industry, LEKAR Group is proud to be a trusted supplier of genuine, high-quality imported equipment and auxiliary materials from leading industrial nations in Asia such as Thailand, China, and Singapore…
Glass beads and sandblasting machines distributed by LEKAR.
The glass beads distributed by LEKAR are of high quality and competitively priced, with strict quality control at every stage until delivery to the customer. In addition, for customers who do not wish to purchase polishing materials or machines, or who only require small-scale polishing work, LEKAR offers professional metal polishing services.
This service is carried out by skilled technicians using specialized equipment and materials, ensuring exceptional polishing results that meet all aesthetic requirements. Contact LEKAR today for a free consultation!
LEKA POLISHING TECHNOLOGY JOINT STOCK COMPANY – LEKAR GROUP
Head Office: No. 11, Louis VII Street, Louis City Urban Area, Dai Mo Ward, Hanoi, Vietnam.
Northern Branch – Lai Xa Industrial Cluster, Hoai Duc District, Hanoi | Tel: 02437 646469
Southern Branch – Nam Tan Uyen Industrial Park, Tan Hiep Ward, Ho Chi Minh City | Tel: 02873 033386
Website: danhbongkimloai.com.vn | lekar.vn
