Different types of sand are used for sandblasting, with silica sand being the most common due to its quality, durability, and availability. Other materials like glass beads, aluminum oxide, and crushed walnut kernels are also used. The health risks associated with each type of sand must be considered. The roughness of sand is measured by particle size and called “grit,” which affects the resulting finish after sandblasting. Darker sands are generally harder and more effective. Beach sand can be used but may contain salt deposits that can cause rust and corrosion.
There are many different types of blasting sand used for blasting applications, and their usage varies entirely depending on the job being performed and the material being blasted. The most commonly used type of blasting sand is white silica sand. Other materials, such as glass beads, aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, and even crushed walnut kernels, are also used for sandblasting applications. Regardless of the material used, however, there are different health risks associated with each type of sand that must be considered during the decision making process.
The most commonly used type of blasting sand is silica sand. Silica sand is mainly used because it is not only of good quality and durability, but it is also usually inexpensive and readily available. In addition to these benefits, silica sand can also be reused to some extent, unlike other materials. The main ingredient in silica sand is quartz, a tough crystal that allows for effective sandblasting. One of the biggest drawbacks and health risks of silica sand is that it can create large amounts of dust, which can be harmful if inhaled.
Almost any type of sand can be used for sandblasting. Sand, however, can consist of other materials other than silica, which can make some types of sand exclusive to certain materials. The sands found in tropical regions or along the coast are usually composed of limestone. Sand composed of gypsum and obsidian can also be found. A general rule of thumb for sandblasting is that the darker the color, the harder and more effective the sand.
Beach sand can be used as sandblasting sand. The only problem with using beach sand is that when it comes from a marine environment, it will contain salt deposits. Because sand is blasted at incredibly high speeds, salt deposited sand often incorporates salt into the material being blasted. This is very undesirable, especially when sandblasting metals, as it will make the metal much more prone to rust and corrosion.
Sandblasting sand is rated by its roughness, which is measured by particle size and called the “grit.” The resulting finish after sandblasting is determined by grit, with finer grits leaving smoother finishes and coarser grits leaving rougher finishes. Factors other than particle size affect the blasting and cutting processes, such as the shape of the sand.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
