What’s sandblasting?

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Sandblasting is a popular industrial method for refining surfaces using pressurized abrasive streams. There are different types of sandblasting, including shot blasting and micro-abrasive sandblasting. Portable and stationary machines are used, with varying strengths depending on the surface and grain used.

Sandblasting is a popular industrial method for smoothing rough surfaces or roughening smooth surfaces using pressurized abrasive streams. Both methods are done with the intention of further refining a wood, metal or ceramic surface. There are many tools used to accomplish this feat, including portable and stationary machines.
Depending on the type of surface and the grain used, pressure streams have a variety of strengths. The results can do a job that would take hours of hand sanding in minutes. This process has been used by metalworkers and carpenters since the mid-19th century.

Sandblasting is one of the most common types of sandblasting. This method involves blowing sand or small beads of sand-like material out of an air gun. This method is often used to remove paint from metal, to clean boat hulls, and even to scratch glass to create a frosted effect.

Shot blasting is another type of sandblasting, but is generally less popular than using sand. For this method, tiny glass beads are blasted from a high-pressure device to clean a surface without damaging it. This is often used to clean pools that have stains and fungus. Another popular use of this technology is to remove body paint without damaging the metal.

Micro-abrasive sandblasting is used when a more delicate, artistic touch is needed. Commonly known as pencil sandblasting due to its concentrated and fine grain flow, it can be used to create designs on many different surfaces. Another benefit of this method is its delicacy, often soft enough to carve into an eggshell.

There are two main types of sandblasting equipment used to handle different grits. A portable shot blast machine is the most commonly used type of machine, usually consisting of an air compressor and hose. These come in many sizes, ranging from models light enough to be carried around for small jobs to others so large and powerful that they need to be towed by a truck. The second type of blasting equipment is the stationary blast machine, often called a cabinet. A locker circulates the grainy material inside a large box, recycling it while the user keeps their hands inside thick gloves, holding the item that needs redoing.




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