Abrasive blasting machines, also known as sandblasting machines, are used to clean, deburr, or etch a wide variety of objects. Abrasive blasting machines are composed of a small air compressor, air storage tank, hopper, abrasive blast gun, and nozzle. Abrasive blasting machines are used in a variety of industrial and maintenance applications, often associated with large-scale equipment, components, and structures.
Abrasive blasting machines, also known as blast cupboards, provide a quick, economical, and efficient way to descale, clean, surface-smooth, and etch a wide variety of materials. They are used in many industries such as automotive, aircraft, furniture, and military for industrial applications requiring corrosion resistance, surface finish and lack of paint, rust, or scratches. Abrasive blasting machines can handle parts up to 12 feet in length and up to 40 inches in width. The abrasive blast guns used on abrasive blasting machines are usually manufactured from sturdy aluminum and steel and are equipped with angled nozzles that can be adjusted based on the project.
The abrasive blast gun is connected to the air storage tank and hopper that provides the necessary air pressure and volume of abrasive media that is needed to efficiently and safely clean the object. The air pressure is adjusted according to the size of the piece being cleaned as well as the desired velocity. This allows the operator to adjust the pressure to give the desired cleaning or etching effect or even to control the amount of removal or abrasive action while cleaning.
The type and size of media used in sandblasting is determined by the finish, surface texture, and size of the part being worked on. Commonly used media include aluminum oxide, steel shot, glass beads, and ceramic beads. Depending on the type of material to be cleaned, the media size, shape and hardness may be adjusted to maximize efficiency and minimize the amount of material being removed.
An important aspect of abrasive blasting machines is the blasting environment’s air flow, including the air pressure, speed and direction of the air, and the quality of the air filter being used. The quality of the filter affects the displacement, number of passes required to achieve the desired result, and the surface finish of the piece being worked on. Air pressure and speed should be adequate to dislodge the contaminants and the surface should be prepped with a quality filter to remove and contain dust, debris and fumes prior to and during the sandblasting process.
Additional procedures may be required during the abrasive blasting process, such as removing buildup in the air storage tank, adjusting abrasive flow, and changing media. Adjusting the air pressure or even using different blasting media may also be required to achieve the desired results.
When sourcing a company to provide abrasive blasting services, it is important to ask the company about the types of abrasive blasting machines they use. A quality abrasive blasting company should be familiar with the most common sandblasting machines, the types of media and the air flow that is necessary for each project. It is also important to ensure that the company is familiar with the proper procedures for safe and effective sandblasting and is diligent in following safety regulations.
