Shot blasting
Round steel shot- Best for
- Cleaning and conditioning steel; removing scale and light rust at speed.
- Typical jobs
- Structural steel, plate and fabricated parts.
- Finish
- A cleaned, work-hardened surface with a rounded profile.
Media guide
Specialised Media Blasting: Shot, Grit, Glass Bead & Soda
Different surfaces need different abrasives. Here’s how each blasting medium works and when we use it.
The right abrasive for the job
Choosing the wrong medium can leave a poor finish or damage the surface. Here’s a plain-English guide to the four main media types and when each is used. Not sure? Send a photo – we’ll recommend the best option for your surface and coating.
Grit blasting
Angular abrasive grit- Best for
- Stripping heavy rust, mill scale and paint while cutting an anchor profile.
- Typical jobs
- Industrial steel, tanks, trailers and surfaces to be coated.
- Finish
- A rough, angular profile that coatings grip.
Glass bead blasting
Spherical glass beads- Best for
- Fine cleaning and a uniform satin finish without removing much material.
- Typical jobs
- Stainless steel, aluminium, engine parts and decorative components.
- Finish
- A bright, smooth satin finish.
Soda blasting
Sodium bicarbonate- Best for
- Gentle removal of paint, grease and grime from delicate or sensitive surfaces.
- Typical jobs
- Classic car panels, brick, timber and anything that must not be abraded.
- Finish
- A clean surface with the substrate left intact.
Quick comparison
| Medium | Main purpose | Suitable surfaces | Aggressiveness | Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shot blasting | Cleaning, conditioning | Steel | Low–medium | Rounded |
| Grit blasting | Rust/paint stripping + profile | Steel, cast iron | High | Rough, angular |
| Glass bead | Fine cleaning, satin finish | Stainless, aluminium, brass | Low | Smooth satin |
| Soda | Gentle paint/grime removal | Cars, brick, wood, glass | Very low | Clean, untouched |
Which medium do I need?
- Heavy rust on steel, to be repainted? Grit blasting.
- Cleaning or conditioning new or lightly rusted steel? Shot blasting.
- A delicate or decorative component needing a satin finish? Glass bead.
- Paint off a classic car panel, brick or timber without scratching? Soda blasting.
Media availability varies by job – contact us to confirm the best option for your project.
Recent work
Frequently asked questions
How do I know which blasting medium I need?
Tell us the material (steel, aluminium, brick, wood), what you want removed and what happens next (paint, powder-coat, sealing). Send a photo and we’ll recommend a medium.
What is an anchor profile?
A microscopic roughness left by angular abrasive that gives paint and coatings something to grip, improving adhesion and coating life.
Is soda blasting safe for classic cars?
Soda is a very gentle medium commonly used for delicate panels because it removes coatings without abrading the metal beneath. We’ll confirm suitability for your vehicle.
Which media do you offer?
We specialise in shot and grit blasting, and can discuss specialist media like glass bead and soda for specific jobs – ask for availability.
Ready to see your surface restored?
Send us a photo and your location. We’ll come back with a clear quote – on-site or in our workshop.