Bead-Blast Question

Burchtree

Burchtree

KnifeMaker & Moderator
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How far a grit do you need to sand down to before bead-blasting? Also, what kind of beads are recommended? Thanks.
 
I would prefer a satin finish and bead blast with glass beads. The glass beads gives it a smoother finish. Some folks would rather have a smoother polish and then bead blast, but just my cheap input, guy.
 
Ceramic beads are the way to go for a smooth consistant finish.
I go to a 400 grit then bead blast @ 90psi.
They are expensive but last far longer and wind up being a better value.
 
Originally posted by Blinker
Ceramic beads are the way to go for a smooth consistant finish.
I go to a 400 grit then bead blast @ 90psi.
They are expensive but last far longer and wind up being a better value.
Click to expand...


I would agree with this. Kit also uses it. It is more expensive than glass beads up front, but it lasts way longer, and the finish is more consistent.
Fusco Abrasives, 1-800-899-3872
Abrasive # B-60, SEPR Ceramic bead.
 
I go down to 320-400 grit before using the Ceramic bead, depending on the steel. It doesn't hide anything like glass or AO does. The finish is very smooth. One of the best things is that there is almost no dust in the blasting cabinet.
Glass bead can be recycled thru the blaster about 2 or 3 times and then it shatters and makes dust. Ceramic will go thru about 20-30 times and then just disappear. Takes less cfm and pressure also.
 
Unfortunately, I don't have a bead-blaster, so I'm going to have to find some local machine shop to do it. Hopefully, they have some of these kinds of beads.
 
Burchtree, I doubt that any machine shop will have ceramic beads per say but ya never know. They cost "alot" more than other media but in the long run it is well worth it. I believe the last time I bought some it was like $175.00 for 50# worth. Ceramic beads give the metal a shot peening effect sealing it better that way. Other more abrasive media leaves tiny sharp valleys and hills in the metal making it much easier to rust spot if not taken care of properly. You may want to buy the media and bring it with you. Bead blasting machines can swap out media pretty quick. When I do it I make real sure I dont contaminate each media with the other.
 
that all depends on your media...............

I use medium glass beads and take my handles to a dull 400 grit finish.

the Strider guys use some sand from the beach and dont buy belts any finer than 120 grit (no kidding!!!)
 
Thanks for all the replies -- The shop I talked to has medium glass beads. I figure this will be fine as it's going on a large user camp knife. I'm going to be putting 416 bolsters on it -- will they take the bead-blast okay?
 
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