Surface preparation is absolutely key to the performance, adhesion and visuals of an oven-cured ceramic coating (like AEGIS AECH). 

Very specific surface profiles are required for application success with ceramics - not only for adhesion, but also to ensure the surface is consistent and doesn’t have any bare substrate left exposed after the coating is fully cured.

blasting parts pre coating
Auto & Manual Blasting Stations 
manual blasting station

Recommendation for Abrasive Blasting Prep 

After the parts have been thoroughly cleaned and are free of oil & soils the surface should be blasted with 80-120 grit aluminum oxide.

A wide range of air pressure can be used depending on the surfaces being blasted.

Typically, 40-80 PSI is recommended.

Lower PSI for soft metals such as aluminum and various other soft materials, and higher PSI for hard metals like steel and stainless steel.

Always use a sharp, angular media such as aluminum oxide or garnet.

Crucial Tip: Never use glass or walnut shell as these both will polish and round the surface profile resulting in very poor adhesion. Also, do not use other more aggressive abrasive media as they will leave a profile with higher roughness, potentially leaving raw substrate after the curing process.

AEGIS Technical Coatings
Staff recommendation
www.aegisthinfilm.com

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