The terms Mesh and Grit are often misunderstood and confused. When it comes to discussing these terms in regard to abrasive blasting or similar, the terms are used interchangeably. A 60 mesh Aluminum Oxide can also correctly be termed a 60 grit Aluminum Oxide.
The differences arise when trying to determine the exact particle size of a 60 grit (or mesh) product. Each of the terms would be more correctly defined as follows:
Mesh is a count of the number of evenly spaced openings in one square inch of a screen (i.e., screen size). Mesh is basically a specific size or dimension (see Mesh and Micron).
Grit is generally defined as an angular media used to abrade or cut a work piece. Grit is a specified range of particles for a given product.
In practical terms, identifying a specific abrasive product with the term 60 Mesh would normally indicate that the product has an median size of the openings on a 60 mesh screen. The term 60 Grit more accurately identifies the particle size distribution of the product.
Take a quick look at this specifications sheet for 60 Mesh Aluminum Oxide Grit. The Screen Size is the Mesh and the overall Particle Size Distribution is the Grit.
Whether calling an abrasive product Mesh or Grit ultimately makes no practical difference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
1. What does mesh mean in abrasives?
Mesh is about the number of openings in a screen. It helps sort out particle sizes.
2. What does grit mean in media?
Grit is a measure of how big or small the particlesre in an abrasive. It also tells us how well it cuts.
3. Is 60 mesh the same as 60 grit?
People often use 60 mesh and 60 grit to mean the thing. They both talk about particle sizes.
4. Which is more precise: mesh or grit?
Mesh is more precise. It is based on the size of the screen openings.
5. Why is understanding mesh vs. Grit important?
It is good to know the difference between mesh and grit. This helps you pick the abrasive, for your project whether you are finishing a surface, blasting or polishing.
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