In industrial surface treatment processes, selecting the right abrasive is not just a technical issue — it is a critical factor that directly impacts processing quality, equipment durability, and production costs.
In this article, we explain how to choose the optimal size of steel shot (rounded — Steel Shot) and steel grit (angular — Steel Grit), and how to properly configure your equipment to maximize the abrasive’s potential.
What is the SAE J444 Standard?
SAE J444 is an international standard that defines the sizing and classification of steel abrasives used for surface preparation.
Compliance with this standard ensures:
- Consistent material quality
- Accurate grain sizing
- Predictable performance during operation
Main Abrasive Groups According to SAE J444:
- Steel Grit – Angular particles for aggressive cleaning and surface profiling
- Steel Shot – Spherical particles for gentler cleaning and surface densification
Types of Steel Abrasives: Grit and Shot
| Abrasive Type | Shape | Intended Use | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steel Grit | Angular | Aggressive cleaning and creating surface profiles | High cleaning efficiency |
| Steel Shot | Spherical | Polishing, shot peening | Stress relief and material life extension |
How to Choose the Right Size of Steel Shot and Grit
1. Define the Processing Objective
- Heavy cleaning, rust removal → Larger sizes (G14, G18, S230, S280)
- Surface preparation for painting, grinding → Medium sizes (G25, G40, S170, S230)
- Fine finishing, delicate processing → Smaller sizes (G50, G80, S110, S70)
2. Size Comparison of Steel Grit and Shot
Steel Grit
| Type | Size Code | Grain Size [mm] | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grit | G10 | 2.00 – 2.36 | Heavy cleaning of large structures |
| Grit | G12 | 1.70 – 2.00 | Intensive preparation of steel structures |
| Grit | G14 | 1.40 – 2.00 | Standard cleaning of large components |
| Grit | G16 | 1.18 – 1.70 | Deep cleaning of medium-sized parts |
| Grit | G18 | 1.00 – 1.40 | Cleaning and surface preparation for painting |
| Grit | G25 | 0.71 – 1.00 | Degreasing and treatment of thin sheets |
| Grit | G40 | 0.42 – 0.71 | Standard surface preparation |
| Grit | G50 | 0.30 – 0.42 | Finishing treatment of delicate parts |
| Grit | G80 | 0.18 – 0.30 | Precision cleaning before coating |
Steel Shot
| Type | Size Code | Grain Size [mm] | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shot | S780 | 1.70 – 2.00 | Heavy cleaning of large elements |
| Shot | S660 | 1.40 – 1.70 | Removal of tough contaminants and coatings |
| Shot | S550 | 1.18 – 1.40 | Standard cleaning of steel structures |
| Shot | S460 | 1.00 – 1.18 | Universal surface preparation and cleaning |
| Shot | S390 | 0.85 – 1.00 | Preparation for protective coatings |
| Shot | S330 | 0.71 – 0.85 | Standard abrasive blasting |
| Shot | S280 | 0.60 – 0.71 | Cleaning of medium-sized components |
| Shot | S230 | 0.50 – 0.60 | Surface preparation for painting |
| Shot | S170 | 0.42 – 0.50 | Light grinding and detail cleaning |
| Shot | S110 | 0.25 – 0.42 | Gentle cleaning of small components |
| Shot | S70 | 0.18 – 0.25 | Treatment of thin sheets and precision parts |
3. Consider the Material and Processing Requirements
- Harder materials → Select harder abrasives (GH type grit or appropriately hardened steel shot).
- Delicate or thin surfaces → Choose smaller and softer fractions to avoid damage.
How to Set Up Equipment for Optimal Abrasive Use
To achieve maximum efficiency and minimize abrasive consumption, equipment should be properly configured.
Key Parameters:
- Working pressure – Adjust according to abrasive type and desired result.
- Turbine/stream velocity – Larger abrasives require stronger settings.
- Working angle – An optimal angle of 75–90° ensures effective cleaning.
- Recycling and separation systems – Remove dust and prolong abrasive lifespan.
Cost Optimization Tips
✅ Use certified abrasives compliant with SAE J444
✅ Regularly recover and screen abrasives
✅ Adjust equipment settings based on abrasive size and type
✅ Schedule periodic quality inspections of abrasives
Why Choose INGRITECH?
- Guaranteed quality — compliance with SAE J444 and international standards
- Wide selection — both steel grit and steel shot in various sizes
- Technical support — professional advice on choosing the best solution
- Fast deliveries — throughout Europe
Conclusion
Choosing the correct size of steel shot or grit is an investment in quality, efficiency, and the longevity of your production processes.
Don’t leave it to chance — contact the experts at INGRITECH for professional advice and the best offers!