Sand Blasting: 3 Miles Of Precision

Sandblasting is a process used to remove paint, stains, rust, and other unwanted materials from surfaces. It involves propelling abrasive materials at high speeds to strip away the top layer of a surface, leaving it clean and smooth. Sandblasting sand, also known as abrasive blasting media, comes in a variety of materials and grit sizes, each suited to different tasks. Sandblasting sand can be made from materials such as glass beads, aluminium oxide, steel grit, and even baking soda. The type of sandblasting sand used depends on the surface being treated and the desired finish. For example, steel shot is often used to strip and clean metal surfaces, while baking soda is ideal for surfaces that cannot be etched or scratched.

Sandblasting sand types: extra fine, fine, medium, coarse

Sandblasting is a process used to remove paint, rust, or smooth out and shape stone, granite or marble. The sand used in this process comes in a variety of grit sizes, which determine how coarse the sand is. The grit size you need will depend on the type of job you are doing.

Extra fine grit sand is perfect for removing paint from surfaces. This sand has a grit size of 30-60 and is available in 100-pound bags. It can be used with your existing sandblasting equipment and is suitable for commercial projects.

Fine grit sand is also used for removing paint from sidewalks, decks, and outside walls. This sand has a grit size of 14-20 and is also available in 100-pound bags. It works well with most sandblasters.

Medium grit sand is used for cleaning exterior walls and other surfaces. It has a grit size of 10-20 and comes in 100-pound bags. This size is also suitable for use with typical sandblasting equipment.

Coarse grit sand is used for heavy-duty industrial jobs and has a grit size of around 6. It is perfect for quickly peeling away stone and is available in 100-pound bags.

Other materials can also be used for sandblasting, including baking soda, glass beads, and steel shot. These alternatives offer different benefits, such as being less abrasive, leaving no residue, or being environmentally friendly.

Sandblasting machine base package

The Sandblasting Machine Base Package is a portable, highly versatile sandblasting kit. It comes in two sizes: 1.5 cu ft (43 liters) and 3.5 cu ft (100 liters). The package includes a pressure release system, a heavy-duty moisture separator, a combination valve/MPV valve, 55' twin line hose assy & control handle, and 1" galvanized piping for corrosion resistance. The pressure release system is a key feature, automatically blowing down the vessel when the control handle is released, and it is designed for low maintenance and simple troubleshooting for in-field repairs. The package is ideal for first-time users and is a favourite of rental houses.

The smaller package has a capacity of 1.5 cu ft (43 liters) and a 150 PSI vessel (10.3 bar). The larger package has a capacity of 3.5 cu ft (100 liters) and the same PSI of 150 (10.3 bar). Both packages are made in the USA and are available on Amazon.

The Sandblasting Machine Base Package is a great option for those looking for a portable, easy-to-use sandblasting machine with a pressure release system.

Glass beads as blasting media

Glass beads are a safe alternative to other sand-blasting media, such as silica sand, which is becoming more regulated due to health concerns. Glass beads can be used for a few cycles before they need to be replaced and are effective at cleaning surfaces without leaving a blast profile. This makes them ideal for removing paint or coatings from parts, as well as rust removal.

Glass bead blasting media comes in a variety of sizes, ranging from 40 to 325 mesh. Common mesh sizes include 50-70, 60-80, 70-100, and 120-200, with 60-100 mesh being the fastest cleaning option. The right size will depend on your specific application.

Glass beads are meant to be reused and are typically used in a sandblast cabinet, particularly a suction feed cabinet as they are not very heavy. The maximum blast pressure for glass bead blasting is typically 80 PSI for suction blast cabinets and up to 40 PSI for pressure blasting. It is recommended to start at a low blast pressure and gradually increase to determine the optimal settings for your needs.

Glass beads are available in different quantities and grits, such as 8, 10, or 12 lbs, with grits ranging from extra fine to medium. They can be purchased from various retailers, including Amazon and Home Depot.

Sandblasting equipment

Sandblasting Machines

Sandblasting machines are used to propel abrasive materials at high speeds to clean or smooth a surface. Different types of sandblasting machines include portable sandblasters, blast machines, blast pots, and wet blasting machines.

Sandblasting Cabinets

Sandblasting cabinets are enclosed structures that contain the blasting process, preventing abrasive materials from dispersing into the surrounding environment. They are designed for commercial and industrial use and can be either dry or wet sandblasting cabinets.

Sandblasting Booths

Sandblasting booths are enclosed structures that provide a controlled environment for sandblasting operations. They are typically used for larger blasting areas and projects and can be either temporary or permanent structures.

Sandblasting Nozzles

Sandblasting nozzles are attached to the end of the hose and are used to direct and control the flow of abrasive media. Different types of nozzles are available, including standard, high-performance, and specialty nozzles.

Respirators and Breathing Air Pumps

Respirators and breathing air pumps are essential personal protective equipment (PPE) for sandblasting operations. They protect workers from inhaling airborne contaminants and ensure their comfort and safety.

Hoses

Hoses are used to connect the sandblasting machine to the nozzle, allowing the abrasive media to be transported and propelled onto the surface.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

In addition to respirators, other PPE used in sandblasting includes blast suits, gloves, safety glasses, and helmets. This equipment protects workers from potential hazards such as flying debris, noise, and harmful dust.

Sandblasting abrasives

Sandblasting Abrasive Materials

• Aluminum oxide
• Silicon carbide
• Boron carbide
• Glass beads
• Crushed glass
• Walnut shells
• Steel shot
• Garnet
• Ceramic abrasive
• Copper slag
• Armex soda
• Coal slag
• Bi-carb soda
• Glass beads
• Stainless steel shot

Sandblasting Abrasive Grades

Abrasive grades are often referred to as grit size, and the size of the particle impacts the speed and effectiveness of the sandblasting process. A larger particle size will reduce the hit rate of particles and require more abrasive to remove a coating. A sub-angular particle will remove coatings faster than a round particle, and a particle that is too angular may embed in the surface. The ideal particle size is one that is similar in size to the thickness of the surface coating to be removed.

Sandblasting Abrasive Selection

When selecting a sandblasting abrasive, it is important to consider the purpose of the blasting, the required productivity, and the environmental impact. If the purpose is simply to clean the surface, a rounded abrasive like steel shot or glass beads can be used. If a surface profile is required, a sub-angular shape abrasive is needed. The size, strength, and shape of the abrasive particle impact the blasting speed, and the ability to recycle the abrasive will impact productivity and costs. A weaker abrasive will generate more environmental dust, requiring more clean-up and potentially impacting productivity.

Frequently asked questions