Abrasive blasting, sometimes called sandblasting, is an effective method of cleaning or finishing a metal surface. The process involves propelling abrasive material against a surface or object under high pressure for the purpose of altering its texture. Common applications of abrasive blasting include:
- Thoroughly cleaning surfaces
- Removing imperfections, such as stains or rust
- Smooth a rough surface
- Roughening a smooth surface
- Shaping or removing surface contaminants
Sandblasting Equipment
A broad range of equipment and tools are used in blast activities to attain the desired results during blast operations. Sandblasting can achieve different results based on which techniques and materials are used. Sand is a popular choice, but there are many other options for different blasting applications. Whatever material you choose, it’s crucial you execute the job correctly and use the proper equipment. Otherwise, you might ruin your surface or even end up sustaining injuries. Here are the essential abrasive blasting tools every operator should consider using:
1. Blast Cabinet
This is a closed loop unit that allows you to recycle the abrasive. A blast cabinet has four parts: the cabinet, abrasive recycling system, abrasive blasting system, and the dust collection area. The operator places his hands in gloves that are secured to the cabinet holes and blasts the material from outside the cabinet. The operator can view the parts via a window and turn the blast periodically using a foot pedal. Once blasting is done, the abrasive is gathered back into the blast cabinet to be reused.
2. Blast Room
Blast operators usually work in an enclosed room to smooth, shape, roughen, and clean surfaces based on the requirements of the finished product. Blast rooms are larger versions of blast cabinets and often come in different sizes to accommodate small and larger items. A typical blast room contains a blasting system, blast pots, a dust collection system, and a media reclamation system.
3. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
The abrasive blasting process involves propelling abrasive material at very high speeds against the surface of an item. Wearing the proper protective gear can help protect you from residue and potential injuries. At a minimum, personal protective equipment should include sandblasting hood, a mask, respiratory, blast suit, gloves, and goggles.
4. Portable Blast Equipment
Portable blast systems are useful in dry abrasive and wet blasting systems. Dry abrasive blast systems run on a diesel air compressor, which provides an extremely high pressure to blast pots. Blast pots, in this case, are pressurised containers carrying abrasive material and allow a certain amount of blasting grit through to the main blasting system.
How Specialised Industrial Solutions Can Help?
Safety is the key when it comes to abrasive blasting. At Specialised Industrial Solutions, we work with trained operators with experience in operating a range of abrasive blasting equipment, varying from low production systems of 2000cfm to high production systems of 1000cfm. Our well-trained operators run the right systems and the correct abrasives for better results. We also document our blast grades according to ASNZ, ISO, and NACE standards to ensure the integrity and efficiency of our surface preparation work. Contact us to learn more about our abrasive blasting services.
