Brown aluminum oxide is a popular abrasive material used for glass blasting (bead blasting, etching, or surface finishing). Here’s what you need to know:
Why Use Brown Aluminum Oxide for Glass Blasting?
Hardness (9 on Mohs scale): Effective for etching and texturing glass without excessive fracturing.
Sharp & Durable: Longer-lasting than softer abrasives like sand or crushed glass.
Reusability: Can be recycled multiple times in a blast cabinet.
Consistent Finish: Produces a uniform matte or satin texture on glass.
Common Applications
Frosting/Etching Glass: Creates decorative or privacy glass.
Surface Cleaning: Removes contaminants before coating or bonding.
Preparing Glass for Painting/Coating: Improves adhesion.
Restoration: Smoothing scratches or old coatings.
Recommended Grit Sizes
Fine (80-120 grit): Light etching, satin finish.
Medium (36-60 grit): Deeper texture, stronger matte effect.
Coarse (16-24 grit): Aggressive removal (e.g., heavy coatings).
Blasting Parameters
Pressure: 40-80 PSI (lower for delicate work).
Nozzle Type: Carbide for longevity.
Media Flow: Adjust for even coverage.
Safety & Environmental Notes
Wear PPE: Respirator, gloves, and eye protection (silica-free but still dusty).
Containment: Use a blast cabinet or proper ventilation.
Disposal: Non-toxic but should be collected properly.
Alternatives
White Aluminum Oxide: Purer, less iron, for brighter finishes.
Silicon Carbide: Sharper but more brittle (good for fine details).
Glass Beads: Less aggressive, for smoother satin finishes.