When it comes to abrasive blasting and surface preparation, one common question is: Should I use steel shot or steel grit?
Both are types of steel abrasives, but they work differently. Choosing the right one affects how smooth your surface is, how much you spend, and how long your equipment lasts. Rotocast, a trusted steel shot and grit manufacturer in India, explains it here.
What Is Steel Shot?
Steel shot is made of small, round particles of high-carbon steel that are heat-treated for the right hardness.
Why use it:
- Gives a smooth, polished finish
- Cleans gently without damaging the metal
- Perfect for shot peening, removing paint or rust, and preparing surfaces for coating
Advantages:
- Uniform, smooth surface
- Low dust
- Reusable and cost-effective
What Is Steel Grit?
Steel grit is made by crushing steel shot into sharp, angular pieces.
Why use it:
- Cleans faster and removes heavy rust, scale, or old paint
- Creates a rough surface that helps paint or coatings stick better
- Ideal for heavy-duty surface preparation in shipyards, foundries, or construction
Advantages:
- Fast cleaning
- Works on tough coatings
- Strong surface profile for better adhesion
How to Choose Between Steel Shot and Steel Grit
- Choose steel shot if you want a smooth, polished surface, like for shot peening or cleaning delicate parts.
- Choose steel grit if you need fast cleaning and a rougher surface for better coating adhesion, like for rust removal or heavy-duty descaling.
Pro Tip: For best results, some Rotocast customers use both: start with grit for heavy cleaning, then finish with shot for a polished surface.
Cost & Lifespan
- Steel shot lasts longer (1,500–2,000 cycles) because its round shape reduces breakage.
- Steel grit wears out faster (800–1,200 cycles) but cleans more aggressively each time.
- Both are cost-effective; the choice depends on the surface finish you want.
Safety & Environment
- Both abrasives are non-toxic and recyclable
- Always use proper dust collection, ventilation, and protective gear
- Rotocast’s steel abrasives are low-dust and ISO-compliant
Why Choose Rotocast?
Rotocast is a leading steel shot and grit manufacturer in India, offering:
- Wide range of sizes (S70–S660, G12–G80)
- Consistent hardness and quality
- In-house testing and certification
- Bulk supply for foundries, shipyards, and fabricators
- Export-ready packaging
With decades of experience, Rotocast ensures reliable performance and long-term savings.
Final Thoughts
- For smooth, polished finishes → steel shot
- For heavy cleaning and rougher surfaces → steel grit
Need help picking the right grade? Contact Rotocast for a free consultation or request a sample today.
