Angular Glass for Controlled Surface Etching
Glass grit is produced from crushed glass, resulting in an angular grain structure that cuts more aggressively than glass beads while remaining free from crystalline silica.
Suitable for ferrous and non-ferrous materials in wet or dry blasting systems.
Key Features
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Angular cutting particles
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Silica-free and environmentally conscious
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Lighter cutting action than mineral abrasives
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Suitable for delicate substrates
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Compatible with wet and dry blasting systems
Typical Applications
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Etching stone, brick, and masonry
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Cleaning wood and soft metals
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Surface preparation prior to coating
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Decorative and architectural blasting
Why Choose Glass Grit vs Glass Beads
Glass grit cuts and profiles the surface, while glass beads clean and peen without cutting.
Glass grit is selected where etching or surface texture is required.
Technical Information – Glass Grit
Technical Properties
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical composition | Recycled soda-lime glass |
| Particle shape | Angular |
| Hardness | 6.0 Mohs |
| Specific gravity | ~2 – 2.6 g/cm³ |
| Bulk density | ~1.2 – 1.8 g/cm³ |
| Suitable systems | Wet & dry blast cabinets |
Compatible with pressure, suction, and cabinet blasting systems.
Chemical Analysis
| Component | Typical % |
|---|---|
| SiO₂ | 65 – 75% |
| Na₂O | 12 – 18% |
| CaO | 7 – 12% |
| MgO | Max. 5% |
| Al₂O₃ | Max. 2.5% |
| K₂O | Max. 1.5% |
| Fe₂O₃ | Max. 0.5% |
Grades & Supply
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Multiple mesh sizes available
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Supplied in 20 kg bags
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UK stock, 3–5 working day delivery
Glass grit sizes define the cutting aggressiveness and surface texture achieved during blasting.
Coarser grit sizes provide increased cutting and etching action, while finer sizes allow more controlled material removal and surface refinement.
FEPA Grit Sizes & Approximate Particle Diameter
| Grade | Avg. Grain Size (µm) |
|---|---|
| GGR 220-S | 0 – 100 |
| GGR 160 | 40 – 80 |
| GGR 140 | 80 – 150 |
| GGR 120 | 100 – 200 |
| GGR 100 | 200 – 300 |
| GGR 30/40 | 300 – 500 |
| GGR 03/06 | 300 – 600 |
| GGR 24/36 | 300 – 800 |
| GGR 16/36 | 400 – 1400 |
Coarse glass grit grades are typically used for etching, profiling, and heavy cleaning, while finer grades are selected where a lighter surface texture or reduced cutting depth is required.
Selection should be based on substrate type, desired surface profile, and environmental considerations.
Unsure which grit size is right for your application? – Contact us
Our technical team can advise on media selection based on substrate, finish, and blasting system.
Safety & Handling
Glass grit is non-toxic and free from crystalline silica.
Disposal requirements depend on contamination introduced during use. Consult local regulations if unsure.

