The Uniqueness of Glass Bead

Glass bead is unique among blasting media. The combination of round shape and hardness produces a surface effect that is unlike other blasting grit. Abrasive media are designed to strip materials or create a surface profile. These angular media are designed to be aggressive on the surface for short and effective blast cycle times.

Glass bead is typically used for peening applications. While most media are blasted at an angle to the surface, glass bead is generally blasted perpendicular to the blast area. In combination with the round shape and hardness, this method creates a very uniform and very smooth surface finish. The size of the bead used and the hardness of the metal being blasted will result in a final surface aesthetic ranging from extremely uniform and matte to a bright, peened, satin-like finish.