Extended Guide to Spherical Steel Shot Applications: Fractions from S110 to S1100
Spherical steel shot is widely used in various industrial processes, especially for cleaning, hardening, and surface preparation. Choosing the right fraction is crucial to achieving the desired effect. This article explains how different fractions — from smallest to largest — are used in real-world production environments.
Comparative Table of Shot Fractions
| Fraction | Grain Size (mm) | Primary Purpose | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| S110 | 0.25–0.425 | Gentle processing without deformation | Medical equipment, precision parts, thin castings |
| S170 | 0.425–0.6 | Universal use for light-duty work | Automotive parts, household appliances |
| S230 | 0.6–0.71 | Standard for general cleaning tasks | Pipes, frames, metal profiles |
| S280 | 0.71–1.0 | Intensive cleaning | Machinery, truck bodies, industrial equipment |
| S330 | 1.0–1.18 | Deep cleaning and surface hardening | Rebars, welds, steel components |
| S390 | 1.18–1.4 | Roughening and hardening | Rims, steel, castings |
| S460 | 1.4–1.7 | Processing of heavy elements | Frames, undercarriages, bridges |
| S550 | 1.7–2.0 | Aggressive cleaning after heat treatment | Castings, machine housings |
| S660 | 2.0–2.36 | Fast processing of large surfaces | Tanks, ships, steel structures |
| S780 | 2.36–2.8 | Coarse cleaning of large surfaces | Containers, trucks, agricultural machinery |
| S930 | 2.8–3.35 | Treatment of heavy elements with structural effect | Industrial tanks, columns, railway components |
| S1100 | 3.35–4.0 | Maximum impact depth and force | Armor plates, heavy castings, military-grade frames |
S110 (0.25–0.425 mm)
This fine fraction is suitable for the most delicate surface processing where deformation or excessive roughness must be avoided.
Applications:
- Precision mechanical components
- Medical equipment
- Thin-walled aluminum or alloy castings
- Pre-coating surface preparation
S170 (0.425–0.6 mm)
A universal fraction for light work requiring even and controlled processing.
Applications:
- Automotive parts (housings, brackets)
- Household appliances
- Preparation for painting and powder coating
S230 (0.6–0.71 mm)
The most commonly used fraction for general technical purposes. It offers a good balance between cleaning speed and maintaining product geometry.
Applications:
- Metal construction frames and profiles
- Pipes, beams
- Shipbuilding industry
S280 (0.71–1.0 mm)
A fraction for more intensive cleaning, especially where scale or rust is present.
Applications:
- Machine components
- Truck body parts
- Industrial equipment
S330 (1.0–1.18 mm)
Used for deep cleaning or surface hardening through micro-impact.
Applications:
- Rebars
- Steel elements after welding
- Heavy cast iron parts
S390 (1.18–1.4 mm)
Creates noticeable roughness and stronger impact, which is important for long-lasting coatings.
Applications:
- Rims
- Steel and alloy castings
- Surface hardening
S460 (1.4–1.7 mm)
Suitable for deep processing of heavy components, including ship hulls and bridges.
Applications:
- Steel frames
- Brackets
- Tracks and heavy undercarriages
S550 (1.7–2.0 mm)
Used for aggressive removal of thick layers after thermal processing.
Applications:
- Steel castings
- Machine housings
- High-strength steel parts
S660 (2.0–2.36 mm)
Applied when rapid removal of contaminants from large surfaces is needed.
Applications:
- Shipbuilding
- Large tank processing
- Rusty metal structures
S780 (2.36–2.8 mm)
High kinetic energy – used for coarse cleaning.
Applications:
- Trucks
- Container frames
- Agricultural machinery
S930 (2.8–3.35 mm)
Fraction for treating very large elements where cleaning and surface structure modification are important.
Applications:
- Industrial tanks
- Columns, brackets
- Railway components
S1100 (3.35–4.0 mm)
The largest fraction – used for maximum depth processing and the roughest surfaces.
Applications:
- Armor plates
- Reinforced frames
- Heavy castings for energy and military use
Summary
Choosing the correct steel shot fraction is key to effective, fast, and safe metal surface processing. Each task has an optimal fraction that ensures the best result with minimal cost.
For expert advice or to place an order – contact our consultants or submit an inquiry via the form on our website.