Frequently Asked Questions
BLACK DIAMOND INFORMATION
Where can I find the (M)SDS for Black Diamond Abrasive Products?
The (M)SDS can be found on the blasting abrasives products page, the Coal Slag page, and the Iron Silicate page.
- For fast access to Black Diamond Coal Slag (M)SDS, click here.
- For fast access to Black Diamond Iron Silicate Harvey and Galveston (M)SDS, click here.
What is copper slag (aka iron silicate)?
Copper slag (aka iron silicate) is a by-product of a metal refining process. During smelting, slag floats on the molten metal. Slag that is quenched in water produces angular granules that are stockpiled to be processed into granules for a variety of our blasting abrasives.
Are your abrasives more effective?
Black Diamond abrasive products are by far the toughest, most effective “one-time” use blasting abrasives media available. Not to mention, cost-effective. Compare the efficiency and power of our low-dusting products with any other abrasive media and Black Diamond wins every time. We also offer more grade sizes than anyone else in the industry, meaning you have more options to better achieve the target profile and finish.
Can Abrasives Be Recycled?
Black Diamond blasting abrasives can certainly be recycled. To do so, you need to blast in a clean environment with a screening process in place to reclaim the granules. Your screens must be consistent with the grade of the abrasive product you’re using.
Learn more about our Beneficial Reuse Program here.
What surfaces can you blast?
You can blast nearly any surface with Black Diamond blasting abrasives. With our selection of seven grades, you have the product for any job. Our range of products is fit to prepare the surfaces for heavy duty applications or to brush new surfaces clean of light dust, rust, or enamels for a smooth finish. See more coal slag and copper slag (aka iron silicate) applications.
Which Abrasive is right for me?
It depends on the surface you wish to prepare and the blasting equipment you plan to use. We carry six different grades of abrasive products that range from our most coarse product, 1240, to our finest product, 4080. View a complete listing of our copper slag (aka iron silicate) grades as well as the recommended uses, mil profile, and preferred nozzle size for each product. To help you find the blasting abrasives that best suits your needs, take a look at our Product Comparison Guide.
What is coal slag?
Coal slag, also known as boiler slag, is a recycled product produced by coal-burning plants. When coal is “fired” at over 2,500 degrees, it melts and produces a by-product called slag. The slag is cooled through a process called vitrification which causes it to solidify and form sharp, angular granules in a variety of sizes. This slag is then reclaimed, dried, crushed, and the remaining granules are sorted into seven different grades of blasting abrasives.
Why use coal slag/copper slag (aka iron silicate)?
Coal slag and copper slag (aka iron silicate) simply work better. It’s the low-cost product you want with the high efficiency you need to get any job done quickly. Hard, angular particles are uniform in weight and gradation for fast-cutting strength. Copper slag offers a safer alternative to sand and is more cost-effective than garnet, aluminum oxide, steel, and glass.
Is Black Diamond safe?
Yes, Black Diamond abrasive products are safe. Black Diamond abrasive products are also a safer alternative to sand because they contain less than 1% free crystalline silica and are low dusting and chemically inert. Additional certifications and recognitions for our blasting abrasives can be seen here.
What are the best applications?
The best applications for our blasting abrasives are outdoor uses where you need a quick-cutting media. Black Diamond abrasive products are also ideal in situations where you need the power of a recyclable product without hassle and prep work.
Can I use any blaster?
Yes, Black Diamond abrasives can be used in any blaster with the proper nozzle sizing. Always be certain to check that you have the correct nozzle size before using blasting abrasives.
What product should I use?
The Black Diamond abrasives you use depends on the surface you wish to prepare and the blasting equipment you plan to use. We carry seven different grades of abrasives products that range from our most coarse product, 1040, to our finest product, 4080. View a complete listing of our coal slag grades and copper slag (aka iron silicate) grades as well as the recommended uses, mil profile, and preferred nozzle size for each product.
What nozzle size do I need?
The nozzle size depends on which Black Diamond abrasive product you are blasting. Please click here to view our Nozzle Sizing Chart.
Boost Your Performance with
Premium Abrasives!
Elevate your results with our high-quality abrasive solutions. Whether you're in need of cutting, grinding, or polishing products, we have the tools to enhance your efficiency and precision.