Sandblasting, also known as abrasive blasting, is a very common process in the industrial and construction sector. During this process, a jet of air, water and sand hits the surface of the objects, polishing them and preparing them for future manufacturing.
SANDBLASTING: HOW DOES IT WORK?
Sandblasting works by sending tiny grains of sand with an abrasive action. The air pressure gives the sand the speed necessary to cause an abrasion. However, this pressure changes according to the size of the object and its material. Depending on the diameter of the sand grains used and the power of the jet, the finishing changes.
After sandblasting, steel and cast iron surfaces will have a silvery appearance, while bronze and brass surfaces will be dull.
It is a very versatile process that provides satisfying results in a short time. In fact, it is used in many different fields:
- pre-treatment of electroplating, paint-spraying, coating, etc.
- riconditioning of sporting cars and motorcycles’ parts
- removal of color and prints
- improvement of the surface hardness of the metal workpiece
- anti-slip treatment on the surface of metallic and non-metallic objects
- cleaning:
- the surface of non-metallic objects
- ceramic surfaces
- the mold without damaging the print
SAFE WORKPLACE
Sandblasting is an extremely dangerous process, as the jet of air is pretty rough. If sand accidentally reaches the skin, it can cause serious damage to the skin, such as abrasions or other injuries. The biggest risk is that if can settle under the skin, causing painful infections.
This is the reason why sandblasting usually takes place in a hermetically sealed plexiglass cabinet. This cabinet has two holes with rubber blasting gloves which allow an operator to work on the object. If the object is too big and it doesn’t fit in the tank, the process takes place in a hermetically sealed room.
Anyone performing sandblasting must always wear appropriate safety equipment:
- protective gear
- diving suit
- safety shoes
- protective vest
- leather gloves
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