Sandblasting Equipment Basics
How sandblasting equipment is used and where to find it
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.
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.
Try: 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.
Try: 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.
Try: ProcessRegister's website contains a long list of suppliers of sandblasting equipment. IQS Directory provides a tabulation of sandblaster manufacturers that you can contact.
- 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.
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