5 Critical Sandblasting Rules to Achieve Successful Outcomes
Sandblasting or abrasive blasting is a popular surface preparation technique used in most industries. It uses abrasive particles alongside pressurised air or water to smoothen, remove burrs or apply textures on surfaces. However, it takes extra skill and expertise to sandblast a surface without causing some damage and still achieve cleaner surfaces. Being patient and keeping in mind the following tips will help you sandblast with minimal unpleasant outcomes.
Choose the Ideal Sandblasting Media
Many abrasives are used in sandblasting processes, each suitable for specific applications. These abrasives have varying degrees of hardness, which means they have different effects on target surfaces. Due to the high sandblasting pressure, some media, like crushed glass, can become extremely hot to the extent of embedding themselves on the target surface. Therefore, it's vital to select the appropriate media to prevent such issues.
Determine Your Sandblasting Pressure
Most abrasive blasting techniques use the highest possible pressure to effectively clean surfaces. Generally, high PSI levels generate more heat due to the aggressiveness caused on the target surface. High PSI can strip off tough surfaces like metals depending on the abrasive media deployed. However, other applications require lower PSI levels. Therefore, consider using the recommended pressure to prevent damage depending on the target surface.
Check the Size of Your Sandblasting Tip
When choosing the ideal sandblasting tip, remember that the smaller it is, the more control you'll have over your blasting media. Small-sized tips expend fewer media that hits the surface simultaneously, resulting in less pressure. When choosing the nozzle size, other critical things to pay attention to include the available air, hose size and equipment capacity.
Sandblasting Method and Experience
This one goes without saying. It would help if you chose a sandblasting expert experienced and focused on offering high-quality work. Sandblasting is a risky process that you shouldn't attempt alone unless you're professionally trained. It requires the input of a professional blaster who uses the proper techniques and equipment to accomplish the task safely without putting you at risk.
The Time Factor
Time and patients are essential recipes for sandblasting success. Employing a small-sized nozzle and moderate pressure means taking more time to complete a project. If you choose a small nozzle and the highest PSI for a quicker process, you might potentially cause more damage and achieve unsatisfactory results.
Final Thoughts
Sandblasting is an advanced surface clean-up process that calls for the right equipment, techniques, time and skill to achieve results. Therefore, maintain these essential rules to guarantee satisfying and efficient abrasive blasting outcomes.