Frequently Asked Questions
What is coal slag?
This stuff is boiler slag, which is a recycled product from coal burning plants. When coal is “fired” at over 2500 degrees it melts and produces a by-product called slag. When the slag is cooled through a process called vitrification, it crystallizes, forming sharp, angular granules in a variety of sizes. We reclaim this slag and put it through several screen processes to remove dust and unburnt coal, and then size the remaining crystals into five different “grit” categories.
Why use coal slag?
There are a lot of reasons, but perhaps the one you care most about is because it simply works better. It provides you with the low cost product you want with the high efficiency you need to get the job done quickly.
Beyond that, it’s a recycled product made by Americans from American waste that comes from making American energy. It is then washed, processed, bagged, sold, and trucked by Americans. This is one blasting media that Americans can feel good about.
Is it more effective?
Black Diamond Blasting Granules are by far the toughest, most effective “one time” use blasting medias available. You will not find a more efficient, cost effective blasting media. Plus, when you compare the efficiency and power of this product with its low dusting properties against products that have to be “recycled” to justify their cost, Black Diamond Granules win every time.
With the variety of grits we offer and our expertise, we can help you rip through any surface you face faster and more efficiently.
Is it safe?
You’re darn right it is. It’s a recycled product, for starters—and it meets drinking water standards. Black Diamond Granules have been tested and not linked to any disease, including Silicosis. That’s because Black Diamond Granules contain less than 0.1% free silica and are low dusting and chemically inert. And if you’re worried about berylium, don’t sweat it. While our slag does contain trace amounts, an independent lab says we’d need to have 1,000 times more before we’d have to report. So rest easy.
Can it be recycled?
Of course it can. To do so, you will need to be blasting in a clean environment with a screening process in place to reclaim the granules. Your screens must be consistent with the grit of the product you’re blasting with.
However, over half of our customers choose ATI/Black Diamond granules because the low cost and efficiency of the product makes it the ideal product for “one time” use. Most find that when they consider cost of equipment and time, they are money ahead with Black Diamond Granules.
What are the best applications?
The best applications are outdoor uses where you need a quick cutting media, and in situations where you need the power of a recyclable product without the hassle and prep work. The tougher the coating, the better we work. We believe that with our range and grits and the versatility our Granules offer, we’re perfect for any job.
What surfaces can you blast?
You can blast virtually anything. We carry five different grits that range from Extra Fine to Extra Coarse. With this selection of granules you have the product to blast through the toughest epoxies and layers of old paint to the finesse of a product that kicks of light rust and enamels as wells as it does glass etching.
Can it be used in any blaster?
Yes, it can be used in any blaster with the proper nozzle sizing.
What product should I use?
It depends on the surface you wish to strip and the blasting equipment you’re using. We sell Black Diamond Granules in Extra Fine to Extra Course grits and everything in between. Click here to view a complete listing of our products as well as their recommended uses and the preferred nozzle size for each product.
What nozzle size do I need?
The nozzle size depends on which Black Diamond Granule you are blasting with. Please click here for our Nozzle Sizing Chart.
