Sandblasting Stencils Key Terms

Understand the ABC's of sandblasting stencils

By Howard Robertson

A sandblasting stencil (also known as sandblast resist) is used to control the sandblasting to create various shapes, letters and images on a desired surface. These stencils are useful for artistic as well as commercial sandblasting operations.

If you want to use sandblasting stencils for your operations, you will need to understand various technical terms relating to characteristics and types of sandblasting stencils. This guide will explain key terms relating to sandblasting stencils, such as Peel 'N' Etch stencils, stencil masks, plotter cutter and blasting pressure.

Peel 'N' Etch stencils

Peel 'N' Etch stencils are pre-cut and self-adhesive stencils that are useful for various applications, including sandblasting operations.
Try: For more information about these stencils, browse through All Stained Glass’ website.

Stencil adhesive sprays

A stencil adhesive spray is used to affix the stencil to any surface with a temporary bond.
Try: For more information about stencil adhesive spray, read through the description at Decorating Direct Limited, a supplier of decorative products.

Stencil masks

Stencil masks are one-time masks with an adhesive coating. After the sandblasting operation, these masks can be simply peeled away from the surface.
Try: Express Engraving Etc., a provider of laser engraving, imprinting and plating services, publishes information regarding stencil masks.

Plotter cutter (also known as vinyl sign cutter)

A plotter cutter is an electronic device that accurately cuts off various designs (or texts) from materials to be used as masks or stencil resists for various sandblast projects.
Try: Sandcarver, a knowledge resource, provides information about plotter cutters.

Blasting pressure

For the sandblasting operation, blasting pressure indicates the pressure applied on the abrasive media at its nozzle. For proper results, the sandblasting stencil should be able to withstand the blasting pressure.
Try: Hyers' Sandblasting, a sandblasting service provider, offers a glossary of terms relating to the sandblasting operations.

Sandblasting abrasives

Sandblasting abrasives are the abrasives used for abrasive or bead blasting operations. These abrasives remove undesired material from the component surface exposed to the pressurized flow of abrasives. Before selecting sandblasting stencils, you must be aware of the sandblasting abrasives you will use.
Try: Red Hill Supply, a supplier of value automotive tools, provides detailed information about sandblasting abrasives.

Specific gravity

Specific gravity of a sandblasting abrasive is the ratio of its density with the density of pure water at standard pressure and temperature conditions. For designing a sandblasting stencil, you must know the specific gravity of the sandblasting abrasive that you will use.
Try: For the definition of this term, you can read through the glossary at ElastoTech SouthWest.