When you work in industrial surface preparation, abrasive blasting, or high-performance coating, few names carry as much weight as PQ Corporation. Their Grit Kit 2 has long been a staple for professionals who demand consistent mesh sizing, low dust, and high durability. However, experienced operators know that the pre-packaged kit isn't always the most cost-effective or logistically friendly option. This brings us to the increasingly popular search query: "PQ Grit Kit 2 Repack."
But what exactly is a repack? Why would you need one? And how do you ensure you’re getting the real PQ quality in a secondary package? In this comprehensive guide, we will break down everything from chemical composition to handling logistics, safety protocols, and the money-saving logic behind opting for a repack.
Let’s break down the economics for a typical industrial contractor blasting 1,000 sq ft of steel to SSPC-SP10 (Near-White Metal).
| Item | Original PQ Grit Kit 2 | Repacked PQ Grit Kit 2 | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Price per 50 lb bag | $42.50 | $31.00 | | Bags needed for job | 20 bags (1,000 lbs) | 20 bags (1,000 lbs) | | Material cost | $850.00 | $620.00 | | Shipping cost (palletized) | $180 | $120 (can use LTL instead of full pallet) | | Waste disposal cost | $75 (non-hazardous) | $75 (non-hazardous) | | Total | $1,105.00 | $815.00 |
Savings using a repack: $290 per job (26% lower cost).
However, note that this assumes equal performance. If a bad repack causes a nozzle plug every 20 minutes, your labor cost will erase those savings in under two hours. pq grit kit 2 repack
To perform a successful PQ Grit Kit 2 repack, you need a reliable supply chain. Here are the top three sources for bulk abrasive and seal kits:
Pro Tip: Negotiate a "repack contract" with your local abrasive distributor. They will send a technician with a truck-mounted vacuum and repack your PQ unit on-site for a flat fee ($150-$250), including media. This outsources the mess and the risk.
Step 1: Complete Depressurization Close the main air inlet valve. Engage the deadman handle to bleed all residual pressure from the vessel. Verify pressure gauge reads 0 PSI.
Step 2: Disconnect Air and Abrasive Lines Unscrew the 1" air hose from the coupling. Remove the 1-1/4" abrasive metering hose from the bottom of the vessel.
Step 3: Remove the Fill Cap / Top Assembly On the PQ Grit Kit 2, the top lid is held by a cam-lock system. Release the locking levers. Lift the lid. Note: If any residual pressure is present, the lid will not budge—do not force it. When you work in industrial surface preparation, abrasive
Step 4: Inspect and Clean the Interior Use a wet-dry vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove all spent media and dust from the cone. Look for:
Step 5: Replace the Lid Gasket (Recommended) The rubber gasket on the inside of the lid hardens over time. A poor seal causes pressure loss and media blow-by. For a proper PQ Grit Kit 2 repack, always install a fresh gasket every 3-5 refills.
Step 6: Add the New Abrasive Media Slowly pour your selected grit into the vessel through the top opening. Do not overfill. The PQ Grit Kit 2 has a max fill line etched inside the tank (approximately 3 inches from the top). Overfilling leads to bridging.
Pro Tip: Use a sieve or screen when pouring. Many bulk abrasives contain "angel hair" (paper fibers from manufacturing) that will clog the metering valve.
Step 7: Reassemble and Pressurize Close and lock the cam levers. Reconnect the air and abrasive lines. Slowly open the main air valve. Check for audible leaks at the lid and fittings. Spray with soapy water if needed. Let’s break down the economics for a typical
Step 8: Test the Flow Point the blast nozzle into a test bucket. Engage the deadman. You should see a steady, pulse-free stream of grit. If the flow is erratic, you have bridging (tap the side of the cone) or a jammed metering pin.
A: Minor color variation is normal due to natural mineral deposits. But a drastic change (e.g., from light tan to black) indicates the wrong product was repacked. Stop blasting and test hardness.
A professional repack will never have missing data. Look for:
If any of these are missing, do not use the abrasive. You could void your coating warranty.