Abrasive Media

What it is

Abrasive media are the materials fired at a surface during blasting to clean and profile it. Common types include garnet, glass bead, aluminium oxide, and recycled grit. Each has a different hardness, shape, and particle size that produces a different finish.

Why it matters

The media chosen controls how aggressively a surface is cleaned and the texture left behind. The wrong media can either fail to remove a stubborn coating or cut too deep and damage the substrate, so the choice directly affects how well the new coating bonds.

Where it is used on a project

Media selection is matched to the substrate. Softer media suit aluminium and delicate finishes, while harder grit is used on heavily corroded steel. On architectural work, the setting and surrounding surfaces also influence the choice.

How NECC approaches it

We select the appropriate media for each substrate and condition, balancing thorough cleaning against protecting sound material. This careful matching is part of how we achieve a sound base for long-lasting finishes on site.

Garnet and aluminium oxide are widely used because they cut efficiently and can be matched to a range of substrates, from steel to aluminium.

Yes. The media controls the surface profile, which influences how well the coating keys in and how smooth the finished result looks.