Glass bead peening
Glass bead blasting is blasting with silicate beads that define surface roughness and enable cleaning without material removal. It improves the visual appearance and reduces stress corrosion cracking.
Physical-Chemical Mechanism of Action
Glass bead blasting consists of silicate spheres that roll over the metal surface. These spheres remove dirt and corrosion residues through mechanical impact without consuming the material itself. They create a controlled roughness that improves optical properties.
Metallurgical Relevance & Risks in Welding
Using glass bead blasting reduces susceptibility to stress corrosion cracking, as it cleans the surface while creating a controlled roughness. Incorrect application, however, can lead to uneven cleaning or excessive material removal, which can impair the weld result.
Workshop Practice & Instructions
Use glass bead blasting before welding to clean the surface and create a controlled roughness. Make sure the beads are properly arranged and the blast moves over the surface in the desired manner. Uneven application can lead to unwanted results.