Sandblasting is a process for finishing surfaces, and it uses a powerful sandblasting machine with an air compressor. It sprays abrasive particles against a surface using high pressure. Essentially, it blasts particles of sand, and as they hit the surface, they make it smoother and add texture. Take a look at some tips and techniques for this process.
Make Sure That You Choose the Right Sandblaster
There are different types of sandblasters, and they are all best for different types of jobs. The two main categories are siphon sandblasters and pressurized sandblasters. Siphon sandblasters are best for jobs outside. They are slower than pressurized sandblasters, but they are easier to handle. It can be more efficient because the spray is slower than pressurized sandblasters.
When you have a big job, you will want to use a pressurized sandblaster. It takes some time to learn how to use it, but it is able to finish large jobs more quickly. This type of sandblaster is powerful and has a fast spray. It is better when you need to be precise.
Make Sure That You Use Clean, Dry Sand
Another important thing to remember is that you need to use clean, dry sand. This is true no matter which type of sandblaster you are using. You can buy high-quality sand from a supplier to make sure that the sand doesn’t clog up your sandblaster.
Consider Safety
It is important to exercise safety precautions when you are using a sandblaster. You need to wear protective gear, including goggles, gloves, and a bodysuit. It is very important to make sure that your skin doesn’t ever come into contact with the spray of sand, as it can injure you.
You should also make sure that you hold the sandblaster firmly, and don’t let your body get into uncomfortable positions when you are working. It can be very dangerous to drop the sandblaster, so you need to make sure that you pay attention when you are sandblasting.
Make Sure That You Prep Before You Sandblast
It is important to prepare any surface before you sandblast it. It should be clean, and the best way to prep it is to powerwash it. This will help to cut down on the time it takes to sandblast, especially when there is grease or oil on the surface. In addition, power washing helps with salt contamination, and the salt needs to be removed if you plan to paint because it will prevent paint from adhering to the surface.
You should also remove any decals or stickers from surfaces before you sandblast. You will want to keep any blasting abrasives out of holes, cavities, and cracks, so use plugs or threaded bolts to plug these holes.
Techniques for Sandblasting
How you hold the sandblaster is also important. When you are sandblasting the ground, you should hold the blast hose against your body. By holding it this way, you will be able to absorb the force of the air pressure with your body weight. Keep the hose in front of your body or over your shoulder.
If you are high-pressure sandblasting, you should position the nozzle at 90 degrees to the work surface. This way, you will be able to produce a clean anchor pattern when you sandblast the surface. With small parts, you should try working with a low table. Place the item on the table and start with the part that is facing you.