This construction material is the most commonly used and adaptable, applicable for both manufacturing and construction work. The oil and gas business, water filtration facilities, and glass manufacturing companies all require large quantities of silica sand in their operations. This article will outline the relevant characteristics of silicate sand, its industrial applications, and considerations for purchasing this material in bulk.
Silica sand, otherwise known as quartz sand, is a type of sand whose primary ingredient is silicon dioxide (SiO₂). It comes about from the breakdown of rocks by the forces of nature.
What is Silica Sand?
Key Properties of Silica Sand
Said sand is created from various materials, 95% of which is SiO₂.
The hardness rating of the sand on Mohs scale is high, 7.
Silica sand is available in various colors, mostly white, light brown, and beige.
The sand grains are both round and angular in shape.
Those who use industrial sand are assured of its resistance to extremely high temperatures.
Industrial-grade silica sands are known to have very few contaminants.
Industrial Uses of Silica Sand
1. Manufacturing Glass
Silica sand is the foremost component of all types of glass, including:
Fiberglass that is used for industrial or insulation purposes.
Flat glass which is used in manufacturing windows and buildings.
Container glass used for bottles and jars.
2. Manufacturing Silicate Compounds
Silica sand is also an important ingredient in mortar and concrete, where it is used to strengthen the structure.
Serves as a binder in asphalt and road construction.
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Acts as a filler in asphalt and road constructionImportant in the production of ceramics and tiles.
3. Metal Casting and Foundry
Casting metal molds requires high level silica sand.
Enables smooth casting surfaces for industrial and automotive spare parts.
4. Treatment and Water Filtration
Specialized in swimming pool water filtration and municipal water treatment.
Aids in removing contaminants as a natural filtration medium.
5. Industry of Oil and Gas
Extracting oil and gas utilizes silica sand as frac sand in hydraulic fracturing.
Assists in keeping fractures open within reservoirs beneath the earth’s surface.
6. Coatings, Paints, and Adhesives
Sandblasting makes use of an abrasive agent.
In coatings, provides strength and roughness.
7. Recreational and Sports Activities
Used in beach volleyball courts, equestrian arenas, and golf course bunkers.
Buyer’s Guide in Bulk Orders: Considerations
1. Grade and Purity
Make sure that the silica sand satisfies the requirements for sand purity (e.g. QiO₂ at 99% and above when making glass).
Check for impurities like clay and iron oxide that may alter quality.
2. Shape and size of grains
Ideal for water filtration and ceramics is fine-grain sand.
For foundries and construction, medium to coarse sand is preferable.
Oil and gas applications make use of rounded grains.
3. Content of Moisture
For industrial applications, low moisture content is crucial.
Make sure to see that the sand is completely dried and sieved before procuring it.
4. Delivery Condition & Packaging