Sandblasting is a process of stripping away the old to reveal the new. The technique has transformed over the years, and it is essential to know about the different blast cleaning equipment, abrasive media, and more. Whether you are looking forward to buying sandblasting equipment or spare parts, choosing a leading manufacturer in the surface treatment industry is essential.
Automotive, aerospace, construction, railway, and military are a few industries in which sandblasting is a widespread technique.
Please keep reading to learn about the different products, industry applications, and tips for choosing suitable abrasive media.
What is Blast Cleaning?
The process of removing dirt, rust, corrosion, etc., from metal or another object using abrasive media is called blast cleaning. Blast cleaning is a common sandblasting application used to recondition, maintain or manufacture a metallic surface. However, clean the wet contaminants before using the blast cleaning equipment.
Chloride tests and comparison charts are standard methods for assessing the blast cleaning application quality for successful application. Glass beads are popular abrasive media used for cleaning metal surfaces. Blast pots, blast rooms, and automated machines are standard blasting tools.
What are the Product Categories?
Various products are present to help you optimize your manufacturing process.
Sandblasting Equipment – Both manual and automated systems are available. A few equipment options are portable sandblasters, sandblasting cabinets, booths, and automated sandblasting systems.
Dust Collection Systems – You can consider the downdraft tables to eliminate airborne contaminants from the sources. The dust collection and filtration systems ensure a clean environment. Make use of cartridge-type dust collectors and baghouses.
Shot Blasting Machines – These machines are excellent for high-volume applications. The speed and effectiveness will meet your specific needs.
Spray Equipment – The line of spray booth systems is used for liquid paint and powder coating. A few products under this section are paint spray booths, spray gun cleaners, paint pail washers, can crushers, etc.
These are only a few categories from an arsenal of products. However, the product availability may vary from one manufacturer to another.
Industry Applications
International manufacturers and subcontractors in the aerospace industry often partner with manufacturers in the surface treatment industry. From large trailers to buses, a variety of automobiles undergo sandblasting methods. Large sandblasting rooms are utilized to sandblast oversized vehicles.
The technique is also used to improve the braking systems on trains. Military equipment and vehicles are also cleansed in the sandblasting rooms. The usage is widespread, and industries like shipyards, foundries, and general manufacturing also use this equipment and methods for optimizing their manufacturing processes.
Tips for Choosing Abrasive Blast Media
- If you are unsure about the surface handling of more abrasive material, it is recommended to go with a gentler medium.
- If you wish to attain a smooth and shiny finish, glass beads can be an excellent option. Glass beads are also recyclable and can be used entirely before replacement.
- Aluminum oxide is a good option for removing paint. It is sharper and harder than the glass beads.
- Automotive and aerospace applications are best when using plastic as a medium. Plastic is soft, making it an ideal option.
Bottom Line
Before beginning with the application, it is essential to know about the equipment upgradation and medium availability. Technology is constantly evolving, and new advancements occur now and then. It is best to stay updated to make the most conscious choices.
Do not confuse yourself due to the availability of numerous equipment suppliers. Researching beforehand will help you make a sound decision. Choosing a supplier with ample experience and a wide selection of products is recommended.