Non-metallic abrasive materials such as abrasive oxide particles and plastic particles are used to abrasive clean a surface.

The abrasive materials can be used in the dry condition or they can be mixed with water as specified in the procedure. An abrasive mixed with water will give a smoother surface finish than if it is used in the dry condition. The type of abrasive used must be correct for the surface finish necessary and the amount of metal that can be safely removed.

Abrasive cleaning processes give the procedure to clean engine parts or to prepare them for a subsequent step. The Engine or Standard Practices Manual will give the type of abrasive necessary, the grit size and air pressure, and special instructions that are necessary.

Apply corrosion protection as necessary.

Diameters with small tolerances, curvic couplings, areas of discs and blades used to hold the blades in position, blade air-cooling holes and studs must not be abrasive cleaned unless specified in the applicable Engine Manual. Parts that are not easy to clean and oil system parts are not usually abrasive cleaned. These parts are only cleaned with abrasive if the part can be inspected to make sure that abrasive material does not stay.