Suppose folks are in the business of metal fabrication. In that case, they know that sandblasting is crucial in metal fabrication, and choosing the right sand blasting equipment for a business is essential.
Read on to learn more.
What is a sandblasting machine?
A sandblasting machine is also known as a Sand Blaster or Abrasive Blasting Machine. It uses compressed air to blast abrasive particles at high velocity against a surface. It is a popular surface preparation method used in various automotive, marine, construction, and other industries. It removes rust, paint, and debris from metal surfaces to prepare them for painting or welding and can also be used to clean or etch glass, stone, and other materials.
Especially in the metal fabrication industry, there are many factors to consider when choosing the right sandblasting equipment for the business. The type of surface folks work on, the amount of space they have, and the level of automation they need are all important factors to consider.
This post will give tips on choosing the right sandblasting machine equipment.
Types of sandblasting machines:
The most common types are:-
Portable Sandblasters: This sandblasting equipment is made to last for years with an indestructible pressure vessel, rugged valves, piping, and fittings. The machine is equipped with a manual abrasive metering valve, enabling the user to control the air/media mix for optimal performance.
Cabinet Sandblasters: These 10-12 gauge industrial-grade welded metal sheets are the most robust and durable products in their category. This tool can be used for various applications, including cleaning, etching, sculpting, finishing, deburring, or peening.
Sand Blasters Booths: Galvanized steel panels and structural beams sturdy enough to support the weight of lifting equipment make this cage strong. The booths have an abrasive-resistant lining to protect the operator and prolong the life of the equipment.
Once fellows have considered the types of sandblasting machines, they need to consider the type of industry they will be working in.
Consider the industry you’re in:
Different industries have different requirements for sand blasting machines. For example, the automotive industry requires high-precision devices that can blast small areas. On the other hand, the construction industry needs machines that can shoot large areas quickly.
Consider the industry you’re in and the specific requirements of your project before choosing a machine.
Choose the suitable abrasive:
Many different types of abrasives are available, each with its advantages and disadvantages. The abrasive you choose will depend on the material you’re blasting and the desired finish. Some common types of abrasives include:
-Aluminum oxide: This is a popular choice for blasting metals because it is fast-cutting and economical.
-Glass beads: One of the most popular choices for cleaning aluminum casting, automotive parts, and stainless steel parts, this abrasive produces a smooth, glossy finish.
-Walnut shells: This soft abrasive is often used for delicate surfaces such as wood and stone.
Size and shape of the item:[1]
The size and shape of the item you want to sandblast will dictate the type of equipment you need.
For instance, if you are only dealing with small parts such as the piston or brake calipers of a car, then a blast cabinet is the ideal choice. Whereas, if you are planning to sandblast large components such as the chassis of a car, then a blast booth will be the best choice.
Level of automation:[2]
While an automated machine is the ideal choice as it is more precise and suitable for extensive projects, it is not suitable for every project, especially if there are any budget constraints.
A manually operated system may suffice if you only need sandblasting for one or two items.
However, if you do not want to leave any room for error, and require consistent results throughout, then opting for an automated system will be better, assuming the project volume is also big.
The bottom line
Depending on the business, there are many factors to consider when choosing the right equipment. With so many machines on the market, it can be challenging to know where to start. However, by keeping the above factors in mind, any business can find the perfect machine for their needs. In the end, the suitable machine will save time and money and keep the business running smoothly.
Client Feedback – This doesn’t seem right. What you can say is that the type of equipment depends on the products you are dealing with. A blast booth is much more expensive than a blast cabinet. So, if your part fits inside a cabinet, the cabinet is the right choice. If the part is a truck, a heavy vehicle or a huge welded construction that doesn’t fit in a cabinet, then the blast booth is the only option.
Client Feedback – Actually, an automated system is much more expensive than a manual cabinet. However, it provides steady results and repeatability. So, it is the ideal choice for mass production of products where you want to reproduce the exact results from one part to another. This is particularly true for pass-through automated systems, basket blasters, and other systems that are designed for high-volume production. Single part production can also be suitable for robotic blast cabinets, again, when you want to produce steady results and don’t want to rely on a human that can miss a spot or mess up the production on a Friday afternoon thinking about the weekend.
Paul is an content marketing strategist and serial entrepreneur.