What is sandblasting and what does it entail? Well, actually, the term ‘sandblasting’ is pretty apt.
At the most basic level, it involves spraying – or blasting – a surface with abrasive materials such as sand at a high speed. Imagine a high-powered spray gun that doesn’t shoot paint or water, but rather a stream of tiny, gritty particles.
Traditionally, sand was used, but now it’s not uncommon to use steel grit, glass beads, or plastic pellets depending on the desired outcome. These materials are propelled at the targeted surface using compressed air.
How Does Sandblasting Work?
Why would someone want to spray a surface with tiny abrasive materials? It’s a surprisingly useful process. Sandblasting can be used to clean, prepare, smooth, etch, or texture a surface, and is very effective when done skillfully.
That said, sandblasting requires the right equipment. A sandblasting machine contains a pressure vessel which holds the abrasive material. This connects to an air compressor, which will create the strong airflow needed. And the machine also has a nozzle, which expels the abrasive substance in a directed stream that can exceed speeds of one thousand feet per second!
The impact of sandblasting can get rid of a number of types of surface contaminants that are otherwise complicated to remove – thick rust, stubborn grime, or old paint. And depending on the type of abrasive used, sandblasting can also create different surface textures, patterns, and finishes.
Is Sandblasting Safe?
I mean, propelling anything at high speeds can be dangerous! The fineness of the participles involved is also a factor. In short, sandblasting can definitely be hazardous if the right safety measures aren’t put into play.
- Sandblasting involves copious dust and debris, which can pose respiratory risks. It’s essential to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) that meets these conditions: respirators, goggles, and protective clothing. You definitely don’t want to be breathing particles in while sandblasting.
- The abrasive particles used in sandblasting and the pressure behind them can cause skin irritation and damage if they come into contact with the body. In other words, if you get in the line of fire, you’ll come away hurting. Proper safety gear is essential for this reason too.
- Finally, the setting and tools need to be right. For instance, the space in which a person is sandblasting needs to be well-ventilated, and the equipment needs to be well-maintained and in good working order to guard against accidents.
Overall, sandblasting can be done safely, but the right precautions must be taken. If they aren’t, sandblasting becomes very dangerous.
What’s the Difference Between Sandblasting & Shot Blasting?
Sandblasting and shot blasting are like cousins. They look a bit alike, but they definitely aren’t the same. They are in the same family though – both processes are abrasive techniques that are used to clean or prepare surfaces. They differ in the ‘what’ (the type of abrasive) and the ‘how’ (the method of application).
The abrasive material used in sandblasting can vary. In shot blasting, steel pellets or “shots” are used. These are small, round metal pieces designed for cleaning and strengthening metal surfaces.
The way sandblasting works is by compressed air propelling abrasive materials through a nozzle. Shot blasting, however, uses a mechanical system where a spinning wheel or turbine throws steel shots at the surface.
The applications and results are different too. Sandblasting is used in a wide range of jobs and precision work, from removing old paint from cars to creating designs on glass. To achieve these different ends, the technician may make adjustments in pressure or the type of abrasive used. Shot blasting is used for large-scale, heavy-duty prep, and it’s most commonly found in industrial settings to remove rust or prep concrete surfaces.
Sandblasting and shot blasting are both effective processes with similar purposes, but the specific requirements of a job determine which process is best.
Can Sandblasting Damage Surfaces?
Sandblasting certainly can damage surfaces if not done correctly. Because the abrasives strike your surface at such high velocity, an unpracticed touch can cause unintended pitting, wear, or erosion – especially on softer metals, thinner surfaces, or more delicate materials.
To curb these risks, the technician should adjust pressure and the type of abrasive based on the specific surface that’s being treated. When possible, he or she should perform a test run on a small, less conspicuous area of the surface. This is where knowledge, skill, and experience can go miles in achieving the desired outcome.
Why Trust a Pro for Sandblasting?
First, it takes specialized equipment. This can be costly to own or rent, and it requires the right techniques to handle safely. Secondly, the process of sandblasting generates significant dust and debris, which necessitates proper ventilation and containment to avoid health hazards. Finally, accidents or improper use of sandblasting equipment can cause injury or damage to surfaces.
Imagine acquiring equipment, dealing with the hazards and mess, and in the end being left with a less-than-satisfactory result!
For all these reasons, it’s best to leave sandblasting to those who do it professionally – like us. Not only do we have the training, skills, and equipment to perform the task safely, but our results will be more effective as well – leaving you with a finished product you’re happy with.
Call Us For Your Sandblasting Needs
If you’re after a smooth, clean surface that’s well prepared for what’s next, don’t hesitate to give us a call. Our technicians offer consistent excellence, and we have a record of customer satisfaction. Reach out today for more information or a quote for your next project!