Sand Blasting Power: Buffalo's Force

Buffalo sand blasters are a range of abrasive blasters used to remove paint, rust and oxidation from a variety of surfaces including metal, wood, brick and concrete. They are available in different sizes, from 10-gallon to 20-gallon tanks, and with different working pressures, from 60-125 PSI. The blasters are easy to assemble and use, and are suitable for both contractors and serious DIY enthusiasts. The smaller, portable blasters are ideal for small jobs and can be used with an air compressor. Buffalo Manufacturing is a leading distributor of abrasive blasting equipment and has been in the industry for over 50 years.

Uses and applications

The Buffalo Sand Blaster is a versatile tool with a wide range of applications for contractors and serious DIY enthusiasts. Its uses include:

Removing Paint, Rust and Oxidation

The Buffalo Sand Blaster is ideal for removing paint, rust and oxidation from a variety of surfaces, including metal, wood, brick and concrete. This makes it perfect for preparing surfaces for new coatings or restoring old ones.

Dental Applications

The Optiblast II™ Mini Abrasive Blaster System is used in dental labs to increase bonding strengths prior to repairing or cementing restorations. The micro-sandblasting treatment can increase the surface area of metals, porcelains and composites by up to 400%, significantly enhancing the bonding strength of dental restorations.

Cleaning and Finishing Small Workpieces

The Empire BB2 and BB4 Basket Blasters are ideal for cleaning, peening and finishing small workpieces. By tumbling parts within an abrasive blast stream, these machines deliver consistent finishes automatically, making them a fast and efficient choice for small parts.

Removing Stains and Grime

The Buffalo Sand Blaster can also be used to remove stains and grime from surfaces, making it a versatile tool for a range of cleaning and restoration projects.

Glass Etching

The Buffalo Sand Blaster can be used for glass etching, allowing users to create decorative designs or patterns on glass surfaces.

With its range of applications, the Buffalo Sand Blaster is a valuable tool for anyone from contractors to hobbyists, offering an efficient and effective way to clean, prepare and restore a variety of surfaces.

Safety and protective gear

Sandblasting is an extremely dangerous activity and it is important to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some detailed safety instructions to follow when using a Buffalo sandblaster:

Before starting any sandblasting work, it is crucial to wear the appropriate safety gear to protect yourself from potential hazards. Here is a list of protective gear you should consider:

• Respiratory Protection: Respiratory protection is critical when sandblasting. Always wear a respirator that covers your head, face, neck, and shoulders. NIOSH-certified respirators are recommended. Additionally, consider using air-supplied helmets for added protection, especially when working in enclosed spaces or outdoors.
• Eye and Face Protection: Safety goggles or glasses are essential to protect your eyes from flying debris and abrasive dust. Air-supplied helmets can also provide eye and face protection.
• Hearing Protection: Sandblasting generates high levels of noise that can lead to hearing loss over time. Wear earplugs or other forms of hearing protection to safeguard your hearing.
• Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect your skin from abrasive blasts. Consider investing in professional sandblasting suits or coveralls made with durable materials like leather or nylon for maximum protection.
• Hand Protection: Gloves are essential to protect your hands from abrasion and flying debris. Look for gloves with abrasion-resistant properties, such as leather or Kevlar lining.
• Foot Protection: Sandblasting can create a hazardous environment for your feet. Wear safety footwear, such as steel-toed boots, to protect your feet from falling objects and abrasive materials.

It is important to note that while some safety gear may be included with your Buffalo sandblaster purchase, such as the protective hood mentioned in the product description, it is always a good idea to double-check that you have all the necessary protective equipment before starting any sandblasting work. Your safety should be a top priority.

In addition to wearing the appropriate protective gear, there are several other safety precautions you should take when using a Buffalo sandblaster:

• Always read and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
• Ensure you are in a well-ventilated area or use a respirator with an air supply.
• Be cautious of potential tripping or falling hazards in your work area, and keep the area clear of unnecessary items.
• Regularly inspect your sandblaster for any damage, leaks, or cracks, especially in the blast hose.
• Use less toxic abrasives when possible, and always use authorized blaster abrasive materials. Avoid using play sand, as it contains high levels of silica that can be harmful to your lungs.
• Ensure proper cleanup procedures by using water-based cleaning methods or HEPA-filtered vacuums instead of compressed air, which can disperse dust.

Types of sand blasters

Sandblasting, also known as media blasting or grit blasting, is a powerful and effective process that can be used to clean and prepare a surface for refinishing. It involves using compressed air to shoot media, such as silica sand, beads, or crushed nut shells, at a surface at a high rate of speed to remove paint, rust, and corrosion.

There are several types of sandblasters available, each with its own unique features and capabilities. Here is an overview of the four most common types:

Gravity-Fed Sandblasters

Gravity-fed sandblasters, as the name suggests, use gravity to direct the sand into the barrel of the gun from the top. They feature a hopper mounted on top of the gun that holds the sand supply. When the trigger is pulled, sand falls from the hopper and is blasted out of the nozzle. These sandblasters are typically compact, easy to use, and suitable for smaller projects or occasional DIYers.

Pressure Sandblasters

Pressure sandblasters, also known as pressure pot sandblasters, are equipped with a large, pressurized metal drum that holds the sand media. A spray gun is attached to the canister via a hose, and when the trigger is pulled, the sand blasts out with air and high pressure. These sandblasters are capable of blasting media at very high speeds, making them ideal for stripping paint, rust, and corrosion from metal and concrete surfaces. However, they tend to be large, heavy, and expensive, making them more suitable for professionals who use sandblasters regularly.

Siphon Sandblasters

Siphon sandblasters, also known as suction sandblasters, use suction as the main action source. The gun is connected to both an air compressor and a sand reservoir via two hoses. When the air is turned on, it creates suction, pulling the sand through the gun and out of the barrel. Siphon sandblasters are relatively affordable and can be used continuously as the sand can be recollected and placed back into the reservoir. They are typically used for large surface cleaning projects.

Cabinet Sandblasters

Cabinet sandblasters, also known as blasting cabinets, are enclosed units that allow for the sanding and blasting of objects within a contained space. They feature a large viewing window and work light, making it easy to view the object being blasted. They also have a large door for placing objects inside and rubber blast gloves for hand protection. A hole at the bottom of the cabinet can be connected to a shop vac for dust and debris collection. Cabinet sandblasters are ideal for sanding off imperfections, removing rust and paint, and working with irregularly shaped objects.

Maintenance and cleaning

To ensure the longevity of your Buffalo sandblaster, regular maintenance and cleaning are essential. Here are some detailed instructions to keep your device in good condition:

Before Each Use:

• Check the equipment: Inspect the sandblaster for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, leaks, or damaged components. Pay close attention to the hoses, nozzles, and connections. Replace any worn-out parts before proceeding.
• Prepare the work area: Ensure that the work area is well-ventilated and free from any flammable materials or sources of ignition. Set up a containment system, such as a tarp or drop cloth, to catch the used abrasive material and protect surrounding surfaces.
• Don safety gear: Sandblasting can generate dust and debris, so it is crucial to wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). This typically includes a respirator, safety goggles, ear protection, heavy-duty gloves, and a blast suit or coveralls.
• Connect the compressor: Attach the sandblaster to an air compressor, ensuring that the compressor can provide the required pressure and airflow (CFM) specified in your sandblaster's manual.
• Fill the tank with abrasive media: Refer to your sandblaster's manual to choose the appropriate abrasive media for your specific application. Fill the tank to the recommended level, ensuring that the media is dry and free-flowing.
• Test the setup: Before beginning work, perform a test blast on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure that the sandblaster is functioning correctly and that the media is suitable for the task. Adjust the pressure and media flow as needed.

After Each Use:

• Unplug the equipment: Before performing any cleaning or maintenance, disconnect the power source to the air compressor and sandblaster to avoid accidental activation.
• Clean the exterior: Use a soft brush or cloth to wipe down the exterior of the sandblaster, removing any dust, debris, or abrasive media that may have accumulated during use. Pay particular attention to the nozzles and hoses to prevent clogs.
• Empty and clean the tank: Refer to your sandblaster's manual for instructions on properly emptying the tank. Some models may have a shut-off valve to isolate the tank during this process. Clean the interior of the tank with a brush or compressed air to remove any residual abrasive media and debris.
• Maintain the hoses and nozzles: Inspect the hoses and nozzles for any signs of wear or clogging. Clean or replace them as necessary, following the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Service the air compressor: Regular maintenance of the air compressor is crucial. Refer to the compressor's manual for specific instructions, which may include draining moisture from the tank, changing the air filter, and lubricating moving parts.
• Store the equipment properly: Store the sandblaster and associated equipment in a clean, dry, and secure location. Ensure that the equipment is protected from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and moisture. Keep the sandblaster away from children and unauthorized users.

Periodic Maintenance:

• Inspect and replace wearable parts: Certain components of your sandblaster will wear out over time, such as the nozzles, hoses, seals, and gaskets. Regularly inspect these parts and replace them as necessary to ensure optimal performance and safety.
• Clean or replace the dust collector: If your sandblaster has a dust collection system, clean or replace the filters or collection bags as recommended by the manufacturer. This will help maintain the efficiency of the system and reduce the risk of dust buildup.
• Lubricate moving parts: Refer to the sandblaster's manual to identify any moving parts that require lubrication. Use the recommended lubricant and apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Calibrate the equipment: Over time, the settings on your sandblaster may drift, affecting its performance. Calibrate the equipment periodically, including pressure settings and media flow rates, to ensure accurate and consistent results.
• Maintain the work area: Keep the area where you use the sandblaster clean and organized. Regularly sweep or vacuum the floor to remove any accumulated dust or debris, and ensure that ventilation systems are functioning correctly.
• Schedule professional servicing: For more complex maintenance tasks or annual inspections, consult a qualified technician or authorized service center to ensure that your sandblaster remains in safe and proper working condition.

Comparison with other sand blasters

The Buffalo Tools SB10G 10 Gallon Abrasive Blaster is a great option for those looking to remove paint, rust, and oxidation. It comes with a 10-gallon tank with a shut-off valve and can operate at 65 to 125 psi, 6 to 25 CFM. Its 6-inch rubber wheels and compact size of 13.8 x 16.5 x 33.5 inches make it easy to move around and store.

When compared to other sand blasters on the market, such as the VEVOR 20 Gallon Sand Blaster and the Black Bull SFSB90 90 Pound Gravity Feed Abrasive Blaster, the Buffalo 10-gallon blaster offers a smaller tank capacity. However, its higher psi range and CFM make it a more powerful option for those who need the extra pressure.

The VEVOR 20-gallon sand blaster, with a larger tank capacity, operates at a lower psi range of 60-110 PSI and does not specify a CFM, making it more suitable for those who require a larger capacity but not necessarily the higher pressure.

On the other hand, the Black Bull SFSB90 offers a similar psi range of 60-125 PSI but a lower CFM of 7CFM @ 80 psi. It also comes with a smaller tank capacity of 7.5 gallons and a maximum weight capacity of 90 pounds. This blaster stands out with its four ceramic nozzles, 8-foot blasting hose, pistol grip blast gun, and protective hood, making it a great choice for those who need the additional accessories.

Overall, the Buffalo 10-gallon blaster is a powerful and compact option for those who require the higher psi range and CFM. For those who need a larger capacity or additional accessories, the VEVOR 20-gallon and Black Bull SFSB90 blasters, respectively, are also great choices in the market.

Frequently asked questions