Aloha, fun & authoritative answers -- no cost, no registration, no passwords, no popups
(as an eBay Partner & Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualifying purchases)

Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989

-----

Uneven finish when beadblasting aluminum

I did a bead blasting on an aluminum part. But somehow I cannot achieve an even surface finish. The parts spec calls out for RzD = 21±5um. I used a size 16 grit. Will I be able to achieve that surface finish of RzD = 21±5um using the size 16 grit? Also, what are the possible cause of uneven finish?

Jess Balagot
Employee - Manila, Philippines
June 30, 2009

Not exactly sure of the D in RzD; however, if you are looking for a smooth finish using a blasting system, about the best you can do with a 120 or finer grit is about what you are now getting. It's the nature of the process. Meaning it is an impact technology and you will get dimples from the media being used. A smoother surface finish can be gotten using mass finishing. A typical finish of 16-18 is common and as smooth as 4-8 Rz is possible.

AF Kenton
retired business owner - Hatboro, Pennsylvania
July 20, 2009

(No "dead threads" here! If this page isn't currently on the Hotline your Q, A, or Comment will restore it)

Q, A, or Comment on THIS thread -or- Start a NEW Thread

Disclaimer: It's not possible to fully diagnose a finishing problem or the hazards of an operation via these pages. All information presented is for general reference and does not represent a professional opinion nor the policy of an author's employer. The internet is largely anonymous & unvetted; some names may be fictitious and some recommendations might be harmful.

If you are seeking a product or service related to metal finishing, please check these Directories: