What is sandblasting?

It is a proven way of pre-finishing. Sandblasting process removes rust, paint, and oxidation from the material surface efficiently. It improves the surface finish by removing casting marks, welding defects, and scratches from the surface.

How to perform Sandblasting process?

There are four parameters of the sandblasting process.

1. Air source

2. Sandblasting cabinet

3. Dust collector

4. Blasting medium

In the first stage, sand is poured into the chamber from the top of the sandblasting machine. Once the sand chamber fills with the sand, the machine connects to the air source, which is typically an air compressor.

Sandblasting cabinet is to holds the workpiece. It has an openable door to change the workpiece and has a proper clamping arrangement for the workpiece.

Once all set up is done, switch ON the compressor to force sand with high air pressure through the nozzle on the workpiece. Air pressure and sand percentage can adjust as per requirement.

High-pressure sand forces over the surfaces of the workpiece to create surface smoothness. The properties and abrasiveness of the sand decide the surface finish.

Sometimes it requires repeating the process to achieve good surface smoothness. After the process, the dust collection box collects the dust.

In sandblasting of large equipment, it requires placing equipment in open space, and then sand is forced with help of compressed air.

Sandblasting process removes rust, paint, and oxidation from the material surface efficiently. It improves the surface finish by removing casting marks, welding defects, and scratches from the surface.

Safety precautions during sandblasting

Personal Protective Equipment.

During the sandblasting process, there is a chance of sand harming the eyes and ears. Also, there are chances of getting sand in the human body through the respiratory system. So, it is necessary to use personal protective equipment like a helmet, goggles, face mask, and protective suit.

Air pressure. 

It is necessary to maintain sufficient pressure on the compressor. Sometimes high pressure can cause bursting of the compressor and happen accident.

Sand storage

Storing sand in a specific space is most important. Because there is the chance of driving sand to other working are through the workers. It can create workspace issues.

Machine maintenance

It is necessary to maintain the machine in good condition. Because if a machine is not in good condition then it may leak the sand during the operation. Also, the bad condition of the machine can cause an accident.