Steel Shot and Grit Blends
ingritech
29.04.2025

Steel Shot and Grit Blends – How to Combine Angular and Spherical Abrasives for Maximum Efficiency

In industrial blasting operations, effectiveness depends not only on the type of abrasive used, but also on the grain size distribution and particle shape. More and more manufacturers are turning to blends of steel shot (spherical) and steel grit (angular) to improve performance, reduce equipment wear, and enhance surface treatment quality.

In this article, we cover:

  • which grit and shot sizes to combine,

  • the industries where abrasive blends are most effective,

  • how to select the right abrasive for your application,

  • and why partnering with INGRITECH means investing in efficiency.

Why Combine Steel Shot and Steel Grit?

Each type of abrasive has distinct physical properties and surface effects:

  • Steel Shot – smooths, compacts, and strengthens the surface. Ideal for cleaning without creating a deep anchor profile.

  • Steel Grit – aggressively cleans, creates an anchor profile, and removes tough contaminants.

Combining both types delivers:

  • optimal surface profiling,

  • improved cleaning efficiency,

  • reduced abrasive consumption,

  • long-term process stability.

Where Blended Abrasives Work Best

Typical applications include:

  • surface preparation for anti-corrosion coatings,

  • cleaning steel components after heat treatment or casting,

  • renovation of shipbuilding and energy infrastructure,

  • shot peening with light profiling in the automotive and aerospace sectors.

Sample Steel Shot + Grit Combinations

 

Application Shot (Spherical) Grit (Angular) Ratio (S:G) Technical Notes
Initial structural cleaning S390 G25 60:40 Aggressive mix, high anchor profile
Thin-wall parts finishing S280 G50 80:20 Gentle action, lower risk of deformation
Pre-paint surface preparation S330 G40 50:50 Balanced effect, good coating adhesion
Shot peening with profiling S170 G80 70:30 Enhances fatigue strength in critical components
Post-casting cleaning S460 G25 30:70 Efficient scale removal from large parts
Rust removal from steel structures S330 G50 40:60 Good balance between effectiveness and cost-efficiency

How to Select the Right Blend

Proper abrasive blending depends on:

  • the material being cleaned,

  • required surface roughness,

  • turbine type and power,

  • abrasive recycling and separation system.

Steps for optimal blending:

  1. Choose the dominant abrasive based on your process goal (e.g. cleaning vs. profiling).

  2. Add a secondary abrasive to balance the effect — either more aggressive or more gentle.

  3. Start with a 50:50 mix and adjust based on performance.

  4. Monitor surface quality and abrasive consumption to fine-tune your blend for efficiency and cost control.

At INGRITECH, we offer sample blends and technical support for machine calibration and process optimization.

Why Choose INGRITECH?

  • SAE J444-compliant steel grit and shot

  • Wide range of fractions: G14, G25, G40, G50, G80 and S170, S280, S330, S460

  • Consistent quality and reliable supply

  • Expert technical advice and implementation support

  • Fast delivery across the European Union

Get in Touch

INGRITECH is your partner for reliable, efficient abrasive solutions.
Our experts will help you select the ideal abrasive blend for your specific blasting system and production needs.