DIY Sandblasting - Tutorial

What is Sandblasting?

Sandblasting is the act of forcing solid particles of abrasive blasting material (such as sand) against a hard surface to smooth it or roughen it, remove paint or modify its surface characteristics. A sand blaster uses high pressure to accelerate dry silica particles to speeds fast enough to erode metal and other materials at a microscopic level.

Sandblasting is commonly used to clean and prepare surfaces, but it can also be used to remove paint or create decorative effects on buildings, signage, boats etc.

The Sandblasting Process

There are several methods and tools that fall under the umbrella of sandblasting:

First and foremost there is abrasive blasting. This method consists of propelling a stream of abrasive material via compressed air at a surface to smooth, roughen or otherwise modify it.

One of the most common alternatives to sandblasting is glass bead blasting or grit blasting. This method uses a stream of very small glass beads propelled by compressed air. The stream of beads impact the surface at high speed and scour it, removing dirt and other unwanted materials. Glass bead blasting is typically used for production work and therefore the glass beads are reused.

Sandblasting Applications and Uses

Sandblasting is also used in the preparation of surfaces prior to painting — such as removal of old paint or rust — or to roughen a smooth surface, such as concrete, so that sprays or rollers can apply a better bond. In this case, the lower part of the object, where it is less visible, can be "rough-blasted" with large abrasive particles to provide a key for the new paint or coating.

Sandblasting is frequently used as an art form of graffiti removal. Because sandblasting both removes material and imparts a unique finish to surfaces, much fine detail or intricate designs can be achieved in this way, often through the use of templates to guide the blasting.

Click here to read our article on different uses of sandblasting

Sandblasting is a cleaning process in which sand or gravel is propelled at high speeds for surface treatments Any media that has the potential to alter the surface of an object can be supersonically ejected into it, but sand--being both round and hard--is particularly suited for blasting large areas rapidly.

Here are some other sandblasting uses to be aware of:

- Antiques

- Tools

- Brass

- Automotive

- Marine

- Powder Coating

- Heavy Machinery and Farm Equipment

Blasting Techniques and Practices

Sandblasters are used in many different settings, but there are a few precautions that must be taken when using these machines. In any case where hard or irregular objects can take flight from the high velocity of this equipment, adequate protection should be worn to protect operators from impact wounds. Padded headgear is required for open blasting where media can take flight. For closed spaces, goggles and breathing masks should be worn to protect the eyes and lungs from hazardous particles or chemicals that may come in contact with these areas of the body. Open (or pressurized) data lines are necessary when using abrasive blasting cutting mediums such as glass, to control the escape of sparks or high heat.

The blasting area should have a containment structure, which can be used to replace the media that has been exhausted or to contain hazardous materials in the event of an explosion.

Sandblasting is not limited to large areas on big projects. Here are some uses for sand blasters:

- Remove rust and corrosion from metal

- Create a key for paint or other coatings applied to concrete or wood

- Mold removal

- Fire damage clean up

- Etch concrete surfaces to create a decorative effect

For more on the applications and uses of sandblasting, check out our blog.

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Sandblasting Techniques and Tips

Before you begin sandblasting, make sure the media is not free-flowing. Fine media can be loosened by heating it in an oven for up to an hour. Not only will the heat help the material release from the blast wheel, but this application also helps prevent clogging of nozzles and makes it easier to work with.

Sandblasting Equipment

The Dustless Blasting machine is your go-to sandblaster. It's ideal for removing paint, cleaning rusted tools, restoring metal surfaces and working with plastics. The machine allows for the optimal speed for your sandblasting process.

The sandblaster creates a powerful jet stream of sand to remove dirt and loosen oil without leaving any debris or dust behind. It's perfect for cleaning large surfaces where traditional sandblasters cannot reach. Overall, this paint sprayer was designed to make painting quick, easy and efficient.  If you have a big project coming up that requires laying down several coats of paint in just one go then this is the perfect machine for you. In addition, the Dustless Blasting machine is easy to use, highly efficient, and has great mobility.

Check out this ultimate guide or our Build & Price tool to help you choose which portable sandblaster is right for you and your projects.

However, regardless of what types of projects you are pursuing, there are some basic components you will want to have before you start blasting.

Here are some of the must-haves equipment wise to up your sandblasting game:

- A compressor with the capacity to supply adequate air for the abrasive and nozzle you are using

- A Blast Pot, or pressure vessel, that adds abrasives to the air or water stream.

- After cooler and moisture separator that cools hot compressed air and removes moisture before it enters your blast pot (if blasting dry).

Discover what other pieces of sandblasting equipment you will need.

Sandblasting Nozzles

When using a blast nozzle, it is important to make sure that the tip rotates at high speeds. This allows the material to be forced out of the machine's hose and onto surfaces.  There are many different types of nozzles available such as:

- Straight (for rough or heavy blasting)

- Tapered (for smooth, dull or final blasting)

- Diamond (for high performance and efficiency)

- Fluted (for low pressure and gentle cleaning of soft materials like wood and cloth)

- Reinforced flutes (for heavy duty applications such as removing paint from concrete walls).

Which size blast nozzle do I need?

Determine the following information to help you discover the most effective nozzle for you:

1. What volume of air your air compressor can supply per minute (CFM)
2. Desired nozzle pressure (PSI) you want to maintain for productive blasting — this is usually 100 PSI

Keep in mind, that the greater your compressed air supply is, the larger the blast hose and nozzle you will be able to use.

You can consult our chart to help decide which nozzle is right for you.

Additional Types of Sandblasting Equipment

When it comes to options, there are several ways you can go about sandblasting. There is a lot of variety when it comes to equipment you can choose from. For example:

- Blasting rooms

- Abrasive blasting rooms

- Blast cabinets

- Dry ice blasters

- Peening machines

All-in-one trailers are a perfect addition to your mobile sandblasting business. You also get a water tank (which allows you to blast wet if you're not near a water source) and an air compressor, blast pot (pressure vessel), air drying and cooling systems.

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