MicroBlaster MB1005
Section 3: Using the MicroBlaster
Comco Inc.
3-5
Issue Date: September 2003
Table 3-2: Common Abrasives and Their Applications
Comco
Type
Abrasive
Material
Particle Size
Description/Characteristics
Average
Particle Size
Range
(Microns)
Micron
Inch
A
Aluminum
Oxide
10
0.0004
5 - 25
The most common abrasive used. A very
hard abrasive that cuts well through almost
any material, particularly brittle ones.
Normally leaves a matte finish, with the
surface roughness being dependent upon
the abrasive size and the blast pressure.
Somewhat sensitive to moisture.
J
Aluminum
Oxide
17.5
0.0007
10 - 25
B
Aluminum
Oxide
25
0.001
15 - 35
C
Aluminum
Oxide
50
0.002
30 - 80
N
Aluminum
Oxide
150
0.006
75 - 200
D
Glass Beads
50
0.002
40 - 80
Good for light deburring and satin finishing
of some metals but not good for cutting.
Can be used to remove loose surface
particles such as oxides. Sensitive to
moisture.
E
Silicon
Carbide
20
0.0008
10 - 40
The fastest cutting of the standard
abrasives. The best abrasive to deburr
stainless steel and titanium parts. Does not
absorb moisture. Dark gray or black in
color.
F
Silicon
Carbide
50
0.002
30 - 80
G
Sodium
Bicarbonate
50
0.002
20 - 150
A very gentle abrasive, good for very light
cutting of soft materials. Can be used to
remove conformal coating from PCBs.
Water soluble and easily removed from
delicate parts. Susceptible to moisture and
cannot be heated to above +150ºF.
H
Walnut Shell
250
0.010
80 - 300
Gentle abrasive that can clean metal or
ceramic surfaces without changing the
surface finish. Absorbs moisture easily.
M
Plastic
200
0.008
150 - 300
Good for stripping soft materials, such as
paint or conformal coating, from harder
substrates.
K
Crushed
Glass
80
0.003
40 - 90
For light cutting of soft to medium materials.
NOTE: Always start the work shift with fresh abrasive powder. Powder left sitting in an
un-pressurized machine overnight can absorb moisture. This contaminated
powder can cause flow problems. Keep powder containers sealed and stored in
a cool, dry place.
