Sandblasting is the process of shaping, smoothing and scrubbing a hard surface by blasting hard granular particles across the surface at high velocity. The final result on the surface is not unlike using sandpaper, but the finish is more even, with corners and hard to reach spots treated uniformly with the rest of the surface. A sandblasting machine uses compressed air to propel particles at high speed. Sand used to always be used for blasting, but today many other substances are used, like carborundum grit, copper slag, glass beads, metal pellets, nut shells...even baking soda is sometimes used for effect.

"Multi-media" sandblasting machines employ a combination of particle types. You can use sandblasting to clean buildings, ship hulls and concrete or to do artwork such as creating three-dimensional signage and frosted glass art and using masks and resists for accuracy. To acquire a background in sandblasting equipment basics, you should consider:

1. Purchasing portable sandblaster equipment for stationary applications;

2. Starting a business or hobby doing engraving by micro sandblasting techniqueing;

3. Perusing lists of manufacturers and suppliers of sandblasting equipment.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use portable sandblasting equipment when you need to bring the sandblasters to the project

Oftentimes it's not practical to bring the item to be sandblasted to the sandblasting equipment, like in the case of refurbishing a building. For cases like these, there are many models of portable sandblasters to choose from.

I recommend: Northern Tool & Equipment carries portable blasters made by sandblaster manufacturer Marco and also by Northern Industrial. MeninTools is another source of portable sandblasting equipment. They feature 40 lb. and 10 gal. capacity sandblasters that can be used with just about any abrasive.

Learn about engraving stones and glass using the sandblasting technique

Micro-sandblasting is a version of sandblasting that allows you to blast an image onto just about any hard surface. Whether sandblasting information or images onto hard surfaces, a precision sandblasting tool like a micro-sandblaster makes it easy to get professional results.

I recommend: SCM Systems makes a series of models of sandblasting tools designed for finely detailed engraving onto stone, glass, metal, tile, eggshell, wood and the list goes on. And their website offers a lot of background info about the technique, including videos that demonstrate how it's done. Profitable Hobbies' website talks all about micro-sandblasting and sells a machine called the ParaBlaster that will give the hobbyist professional results.

Contact manufacturers or suppliers of sandblasting equipment to shop for the equipment you need

When in the market for sandblasting machines, it pays to shop around. Used sandblasting equipment and occasional sandblasting equipment sales are two avenues that can save you a ton when making a large equipment purchase for your business.

I recommend: ProcessRegister's website contains a long list of suppliers of sandblasting equipment. IQS Directory provides a tabulation of sandblaster manufacturers that you can contact.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  For micro-sandblasting with equipment like the ParaBlaster from Profitable Hobbies, you should have a compressor that moves at least three cubic feet per minute at 100 psi. Tank type compressors are best as they seem to provide more problem-free service than other designs.

When you need to paint, dirt, or debris from a hard surface like concrete, metal, or wood, sandblasting machines are the best way to get the job done. Sandblasters come in all shapes and sizes, and use different abrasive media depending on the type of job you need done. Whatever sort of sandblasting tools and equipment your business needs, you can find sandblaster manufacturers online that can provide them.

If you're browsing for sandblasting equipment online, your search can take a while if you're not sure what products are out there or what deals are offered. Know your options before making a purchase:

1. Find all the sandblasting equipment you need from a single source.
2. Receive discounts on sandblasters from wholesale suppliers.
3. Save money and buy used sandblasting machines.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase sandblasting equipment and tools from a single source

A lot of equipment and tools are necessary for a successful sandblasting operation, and there are a lot of varieties of sandblasting machines. To ensure you find the product that best fits your business applications, and to make your shopping experience more efficient, look for suppliers of sandblasting equipment that carry multiple sandblasting models as well as all the necessary accessories.

I recommend: Norton Sandblasting Equipment supplies all kinds of sandblasting machines and accessories. Find everything from blast cabinets and blast rooms to abrasives and dust fume collectors. Visit their website and see their selection of used and new sandblasting equipment. Kramer Industries sells multiple sandblaster models, both portable and stationary.

Get deals on sandblasting equipment from wholesale suppliers

For great deals on sandblasters, look for wholesale equipment suppliers. Buying sandblasting machines at wholesale prices can save you hundreds of dollars on new equipment.

I recommend: National Tool Warehouse sells cabinet blasters, pressure blasters, bucket sandblasters and sandblasting accessories from multiple manufacturers at wholesale prices. Tools USA provides a full selection of sandblasting equipment at discount rates. Receive free shipping on select sandblaster items.

Buy used sandblasting equipment online

Sandblasting machines can be expensive. If you need a sandblaster but don't want to spend the money required for a new machine, look for used sandblaster listings online. Refurbished machines will cost less and provide the same functionality as products just off the assembly line.

I recommend: Titan Abrasive Systems sells a wide variety of used and surplus equipment. See their website for listings of portable sandblasting equipment and blast cabinets, as well as other industrial machinery. In addition to selling new sandblasters, Norton Sandblasting Equipment also offers special prices on used and demo equipment. See their website for current listings of used equipment on sale.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you don't need a sandblaster permanently, rent instead of buy. Many suppliers of sandblasting equipment offer machinery for lease and rental.

Sandblasting is the process of blasting compressed air and an abrasive, such as sand, through a gun. The gun can be used to strip away dirt, paint and other materials to quickly clean a surface. It can even be used to etch and carve glass. Although using a sandblaster does not require formal education or training, learning how to use a sandblasting machine safely and efficiently is important.

Sandblasting is common in many industries, such as cement and glass etching, deck cleaning, industrial painting and body repair. If you're planning to get sandblasting equipment education and training for any industry, consider the following:

1. Learn basic sandblasting techniques and proper equipment identification and care.
2. Use online sources to expand and specialize your experience.
3. Get sandblasting equipment education and training on safety guidelines and precautions.
   

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Learn sandblasting basics with training classes

Knowing the proper way to use a sandblasting machine prevents it from breaking or wearing out due to misuse. Being able to identify a sandblaster's parts and their uses can also help when repairing or replacing a part. Proper operation can also help protect yourself and those around you when operating a sandblaster. You can get basic sandblasting techniques and guidelines by attending a sandblasting class, an apprenticeship in a related field or online.

I recommend: Check out the sandblasting class available from Stone Crafter's Farm, or try this sandblasting class, available from Toolingu.

Find specific sandblasting information and training resources online

If you're interested in using sandblasting tools for a specific industry or purpose, more information is often available online. You can find videos, articles and more that detail how to use sandblasting machines for specific projects, such as car repair and detailing, house cleaning and glass etching. This type of source can provide more specific and detailed information than most classes about sandblasting basics.

I recommend: Read How to Sandblast Wood, or check out this article on sandblasting in car repair from Autobody Pro.

Get educated in sandblasting equipment safety procedures and guidelines

Sandblasting equipment can be dangerous if used incorrectly. Wearing improper safety equipment or pointing the gun at your hands or feet can result in serious bodily injury. In addition, the type of abrasive used or inadequate air filtration can cause lung problems and difficulty breathing. It's important to follow all recommended safety procedures and wear all needed safety equipment. Sandblaster manufacturers often include safety information and guidelines with their models.

I recommend: Read the sandblasting tool safety guidelines available from Tool Box Topics and check out the safety procedures outlined by Manley Bros.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Sandblasting regulations and safety guidelines vary from state to state. For specific information on safety procedures to follow, contact your local occupational health and safety department. Some states may also require additional permits and training to use industrial sandblasters.

Sandblasters come in a variety of sizes from miniature to large. Some are portable and can be used anywhere, whereas others are stationary. To protect yourself against flying sand, consider using a sandblasting hood, a sandblasting cabinet or a special sandblasting room.

Your choice of sandblasting equipment depends on the job you plan to do. Artists will want to consider micro sandblasters. Those working on vehicles or buildings need larger, heavy-duty models. Some may prefer a wet sandblaster. Weigh your options carefully, and be sure you choose the best sandblasting equipment for the task at hand.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Sandblasting hoods

Sandblasting hoods are usually made from heavy-duty canvas or other hard-to-penetrate material to protect the user from flying sand and debris. They pull over the head and have a see-through area made of plastic that allows users to view their work. Vents are provided in the back of the hood for a fresh air supply.

I recommend: Red Hill Supply explains why sandblasting hoods are vital and compares some of their features.

Sandblasting cabinet

A sandblasting cabinet is a self-contained unit that allows the user to sandblast inside, minimizing the amount of dust and debris that flies into the air. Most come with safety features such as rubber sleeves and gloves to protect the user.

I recommend: For additional information on sandblasting cabinets, check out wiseGEEK.

Portable sandblaster

Some sandblasting jobs, such as removing rust or paint on cars or other stationary objects, require portable sandblasters. These sandblasters are made up of a container or tank on wheels. They can be moved around to reach various parts of the vehicle or other large objects.

I recommend: Kramer Industries explains portable sandblasting equipment and its benefits.

Sandblasting room

If you plan to do a great deal of sandblasting, consider a specially made sandblasting room. These rooms provide air circulation and suck out sand and other particles that are thrown into the air.

I recommend: Norton Sandblasting Equipment discusses the advantages of sandblasting rooms and offers a link for making your own.

Electric pressure washers

Electric pressure washers are portable units that can be used for wet sandblasting. A sand and water mix is blown from the nozzle rather than dry sand. Electric pressure washers work well for cleaning or for removing rust and paint from metal surfaces.

I recommend: Daimer Industries explains how electric pressure washers work and suggests possible uses.

Micro-sandblasting system

The micro-sandblasting system is ideal for small, specialized jobs such as artwork. The small micro-sandblaster is a self-contained unit that attaches to an air compressor. Use it to etch designs on stone, glass, tile, or other hard surfaces.

I recommend: Profitable Hobbies describes how to use a micro-sandblasting system and offers a video demo.