ISO 11126-1:2025

Overview

ISO 11126-1:2025 defines the general principles and classification system for non-metallic blast-cleaning abrasives used in the preparation of steel substrates before the application of paints and related products. Developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), this standard establishes the characteristics necessary for the full designation of new or unused abrasives, supporting quality, consistency, and safety in industrial surface preparation. While tailored for steelwork, the guidance in this standard is also applicable to blast-cleaning other materials or components.

Key Topics

Classification of Non-Metallic Blast-Cleaning Abrasives

• Abrasive Type: Materials are classified by their origin (natural or synthetic), such as olivine, garnet, slag, or fused aluminium oxide.
• Initial Particle Shape: Two primary shapes are identified for classification:
  • Shot (S): Predominantly round particles.
  • Grit (G): Angular particles with fractured faces and sharp edges.
• Particle Size Range: Abrasives are further classified based on a specified range of particle sizes to control the resulting surface profile.
• Designation and Identification: The standard prescribes a systematic designation (e.g., Abrasive ISO 11126 N/CS/G 0,2–0,5) that must be cited on packaging and order documentation, ensuring clear communication of abrasive properties.

Scope and Limitations

• Applies only to new or unused non-metallic abrasives.
• Excludes abrasives during or after use.
• Primarily developed for steel surface preparation but suitable for other substrate types.

Safety Considerations

• Highlights the potential hazards associated with equipment and materials used in abrasive blast-cleaning.
• Emphasizes the importance of adequate instructions and safety precautions.

Applications

Industrial and Protective Coatings

• Steel Surface Preparation: Ensures optimal adhesion and performance of paints and coatings by delivering standardized surface cleanliness.
• Manufacturing and Maintenance: Applied across shipyards, bridge construction, pipelines, and industrial facilities requiring reliable paint system performance.
• Other Substrate Preparation: While focused on steel, the standard’s classification system and requirements are applicable when preparing other materials using blast-cleaning techniques.

Quality Assurance and Procurement

• Facilitates accurate ordering and consistent supply of appropriate blast-cleaning abrasives by requiring complete product designation.
• Supports compliance in projects driven by international standards or customer specifications.

Related Standards

Adherence to ISO 11126-1:2025 is often combined with other internationally recognized standards for comprehensive surface preparation and quality control:

• ISO 8504-2: Methods for abrasive blast-cleaning of substrates prior to coating.
• ISO 8503-2: Surface roughness assessment of blast-cleaned substrates using comparator procedures.
• ISO 11126 Series: Additional parts providing detailed specifications for individual non-metallic abrasive types.
• ISO 11127 Series: Test methods for non-metallic blast-cleaning abrasives, ensuring conformity to required specifications.
• ISO 11124 & ISO 11125 Series: Specifications and test methods for metallic blast-cleaning abrasives.

Practical Value

ISO 11126-1:2025 delivers practical benefits by promoting:

• Consistency in abrasive quality and performance.
• Efficiency in procurement and project specification processes.
• Safety through clear guidelines on product identification and hazards.
• Compatibility with other standards, enabling smooth integration into existing industrial coating and maintenance protocols.

Implementing ISO 11126-1:2025 in your surface preparation processes ensures high-quality results, reduces the risk of coating failure, and demonstrates compliance with global industry expectations.