Sand Gradation

[metalman8357]

Hi all,

Just a few quick questions about sand gradation and nomenclature. When a manufacturer says that they supply a mesh 16-20 sand, what does this mean exactly? Is there a standard or some type of requirement that they must meet during sieve analysis to call it this sand i.e. 95% of particles between the mesh 16 and mesh 20 (unsure on nomenclature). I am writing specs. on what type of sand we can accept and there seems to be a large range of different sands (mesh 60, mesh 20-50, mesh 12-20, etc.) available but I need to know what ranges they must fall in during sieve analysis to give it these designations.

Thanks,
M

 

[Ron]

What is the purpose of your gradation requirement? 16-20 sand means that all the sand will pass a No. 16 sieve and all will be retained on the No. 20 sieve.....a tight gradation.

For sandblasting, a common requirement is 20-30 sand. This gives a relatively fine texture.

If you are looking for structural purposed, you certainly DON'T want such gap graded material!