Sandblasting is a technique that uses high-speed abrasive materials to clean, smooth, or shape a surface. The main component of this system is the abrasives, which come in various forms. These are abrasive materials with solid properties that can be used to clean dirt, rust and old paint from materials such as metal, wood, concrete, glass, etc. Compressed air or water evolution provides abrasive is run so much that it can hit the top needing treatment.
Because sand has historically been the primary abrasive in this process, the name "sandblasting" is often used. However, the use of sand can pose health risks, especially if silica dust from the sand enters the lungs. For this reason, many modern sandblasters now use safe and effective alternatives. Materials such as glass beads, aluminum oxide, metal alloys, and plastics are examples of these alternative rolling materials.
Types of Sandblasting Abrasives
Different types of sand grinders are used and each with unique characteristics suitable for specific applications.
- Aluminum oxide is a hard abrasive material commonly used for surface cleaning. It is one of the most durable and recyclable materials. All aluminum oxide can remove scratches, paint and rust from surfaces.
- Glass beads are made from crushed glass, which makes them more delicate. The best way to clean surfaces with the least amount of waste is to use glass beads. They are usually applied in metal for aesthetic purposes or on soft surfaces such as wood.
- Heavy abrasives such as steel grit and shot are widely used in industrial applications. Steel shot has a smooth, rounded surface and is smoother than steel grit, which is aggressive and square.
- Plastic Media: Because plastic abrasives are gentle and less aggressive, they are ideal for removing or repairing non-corrosive materials. It is widely used for sensitive parts, especially in the aerospace industry.
- Silicon carbide, one of the hardest abrasive materials, is useful for fast cutting. It works well on hard surfaces like metal or stone.
Each of these abrasives has different properties, which means they are suited to specific jobs. Choosing the right abrasive depends on the surface being treated and the type of finish required.
Quality of Sandblasting Abrasives
The highest quality sandblasting abrasives are essential for the best results. They use high quality abrasives that are uniform in thickness and hardness for an even finish and high performance on the surface. Surface areas may be untouched or excessively stained due to inconsistent results from abrasives of different sizes or compositions Good abrasives work well, last longer, and do not produce dust much less, all of which improve working conditions and reduce health risks.
Sandblasting poses a serious dust build-up problem because it can damage eyesight and pose a health hazard. The amount of dust has a direct effect on the abrasive properties. Poor-quality abrasives tend to crack and produce large amounts of dust, which can be injurious to workers if inhaled.
Best Uses of Sandblasting Abrasives
Each abrasive has a specific function. Some common types of sandblasting abrasives are as follows.
- Surface preparation: Before painting or covering, the surface must be clean and free of paint, rust and other debris. Surfaces such as steel, concrete, or steel are typically prepared for further processing by abrasive processes such as iron ore or aluminum oxide.
- Cleaning soft surfaces: Glass beads or plastic media are low-impact abrasives that can be used when working with soft surfaces such as wood, plastic, specific metals etc. These abrasives can clean surfaces losing nothing due to convenience.
- Polishing and Finishing: A polished finish can also be achieved by sanding. Aluminum oxide or glass beads are often used for smooth surfaces or for transparency and reflection.
- Paint or rust removal: Strong abrasives such as steel grit, aluminum oxide and others are often used to clean scale, old paint, rust or metal surfaces with the ability to quickly remove the layer to expose it that it lies empty at the bottom.
- Dimensions and thickness: Silicon carbide and aluminum oxide can be used for solid surfaces such as steel or stone or for precision fabrication.