Essential Tools for Accurate and Safe Sandblasting

Sandblasting is one of the most effective ways of cleaning and stripping metal surfaces there is. The process involves propelling abrasive materials at an object for the purpose of altering it's texture or removing surface contaminants. Sand is one possible material but there are many more each with their own particular uses. It is an extremely valuable resource for any welding/fabrication company. However, it's important that you do it correctly and utilize the proper tools. Otherwise you might end up ruining your project or even injuring yourself. The sandblasting process is much quicker than attempting to clean or remove paint from a large surface by hand, saving you time, money and effort. However, the process is only as effective as the tools you use to carry it out.

Essential Sandblasting Tools

Sandblasting is effective but it must be done properly if you don't want to end up ruining your surface or sustaining serious injury. Below we'll go over a few of the most essential sandblasting tools.

1. Sandblasting Hood

As we discussed earlier the process of sandblasting involves ejecting abrasive material at extremely high speeds against a surface. A sandblasting hood is a protective piece of headgear made of extremely durable fibers that protect your face and head from any blowback. Sandblasting hoods also have large viewing windows so you can always see what you're doing when operating potentially dangerous sandblasting equipment.

2. Blast Cabinet

A blast cabinet is a closed loop system that allows you to recycle your chosen abrasive. After blasting the abrasive is collected back into the cabinet to be reused. There's no downside to recycling this material as it is not damaged or contaminated in any way during the blasting process.  

3. The Right Abrasive

The abrasive is central to the sandblasting process and choosing the right one for the job is possibly the best "tool" you have at your disposal. If you're sandblasting a relatively soft surface such as brick you don't want to use a hard metallic abrasive or you risk doing unwanted damage. On the other hand, using a soft abrasive like nut shells or corn starch on a hard metal surface may not be efficient if you're looking to alter the texture in any way.

With these tools sandblasting can be a safe and effective experience for cleaning or altering almost any surface. As long as you're properly informed on techniques and know how to use the equipment it can be a hugely effective tool for your welding/fabrication company. Make sure you have the right tools for the job and find the right people to wield them and you will be well on your way.