Garnet

is an abrasive of mineral origin, belonging to the GARNET group, that is normally available in some areas of the floodplains. According to the chemical composition, since it is a nesosilicate, it shows variable colours in shades of brown/purple. This mineral with or without agglomerates can be classified by the name of ALMANDINE depending on the high percentage that prevails in the basic mineral. It is normally found in many countries, but the extraction cost greatly affects its origin. The GARNET is exempt from free silica and therefore industrially suitable for the sandblasting process of various ferrous and non-ferrous materials, either in indoor and outdoor environments. It is also used in the hydro-cutting (high pressure water-jet) of metal or stone materials. Its hardness is classifiable between 7 and 8 degrees Mohs. Its good toughness, accompanied by a considerable apparent specific wight (from 4 to 4.5 kg/l depending on the grain size considered) allows an excellent productivity (mq/h) with a consequent adequate cost-effectiveness of use, especially in plants equipped with abrasive recycling.