Types of electric sand blaster
An electric sand blaster is a device used for surface preparation, cleaning, or shaping various materials by propelling a stream of abrasive media. This is often aluminum oxide, sodium bicarbonate, or sodium bicarbonate at high speed onto the surface of the object to be worked on using compressed air. This application is commonly used to remove rust, paint, corrosion, weld splatter, and coatings. It is also used to prepare surfaces for painting or coating adhesion and remove burrs from metal parts. While the function of electric sandblasters may be similar, the types and operating mechanisms differ.
- Small portable electric sand blaster: This compact machine is portable and easy to maneuver on small items that need to be sandblasted. This includes things like small metal parts, glass, and wood. While it is easy to use, it does require some setup and preparation before using it on the items requiring surface treatment.
- Bench-top electric sand blaster: The bench-top electric sand blaster is a small to medium-sized device that is placed on a workbench or other comparable surface. While not portable like the previous example, it is still a functional size that is useful in many settings from home garages to professional workshops. Like the portable model, this machine also has an abrasive material and a nozzle that directs the flying particles at the surface of an object.
- Cabinet electric sand blaster: One significant difference between a cabinet sandblaster and a bench-top is that the former is encased to protect the user from the harmful dust generated from the blasting process. This machine also has a bigger capacity for holding items that require sandblaster treatment. It also has an operable window, and the items being worked on can be viewed through that window. The cabinet sandblaster comes in multiple sizes, from small to large, and sometimes even with a foot pedal that can control the level of sandblasting an object receives.
- Electric sand blaster with vacuum: This is similar to the cabinet sandblaster in that it is housed to protect the operator from the recoiling sand. However, the key difference is that this particular design has a vacuum that sucks back the used abrasive material. This feature helps to reduce the mess created by the process, and it also makes for easier abrasive media recycling.
Specification and maintenance of electric sand blasters
Specification
- Types of media: The media or abrasives used in electric sandblasting machines include aluminum oxide, garnet, glass beads, steel shots, walnut shells, and many others. Each of these media options has varying levels of aggression and applications.
- Sizes: Sandblasters are available in slight changes, from handheld units to gigantic cabinet models. Handheld devices are portable and easy to carry with one hand. Their dimensions are about 12 inches long, 10 inches wide, and 7 inches high. Electric sandblasting cabinets are more massive and have different sizes. For instance, the 1200 model has exterior dimensions of 48 x 23 x 57 inches and an interior dimension of 45 x 22 x 23 inches.
- Pressure: Electric sandblasting machines operate at different pressure levels. Low-pressure sandblasters are suitable for fragile objects like wood and low-powered generators. They are also great for cleaning without affecting the underlying surface. High-pressure sandblasters are more suitable for tough surfaces like metal and cement as well as getting to deeper levels. They are more aggressive and can cause damage to fragile objects.
Maintenance tips
Regular maintenance of electric sandblasting machines increases their lifespan and ensures they operate at optimal efficiency. Here are some scheduled maintenance tips:
- Clean the system: Regularly remove the abrasive residue from the electric sandblaster tank. Also, clean the hoses, nozzles, filters, and other components. This prevents clogs and maintains proper airflow.
- Inspect the parts: Check for those parts of the blasting machine that are subject to abrasions and tears. This includes the nozzles, hoses, and gaskets. Replace them if they are damaged.
- Lubricate moving parts: Some parts of the blasting machine require constant lubrication. This reduces friction and prevents avoidable tear and damage.
- Handle and wear safety equipment: To properly maintain the blast machine, it is crucial to handle it with care. Avoid sudden movements and drops. Users should wear safety equipment like goggles, gloves, and dust masks. Safety equipment is also critical for protecting the machine from damage.
Uses of electric sand blasters
The main use of sandblasting machines is to remove contaminants present on metal surfaces. These contaminants include rust, mill scale, oil, slags, and grease, among others. Different types and sizes of sandblasters are used in industries and the manufacturing of products for various purposes.
- Surface preparation: Cleaning the surfaces of metals, wood, glass, stones, etc., before applying paint or other coatings is another widespread use of electric sandblasters. A sandblaster prepares the surface to achieve better adhesion of paint or primer.
- Restoration: Sandblaster machines are commonly used to restore vintage or classic cars by removing layers of old paint from the bodywork. They are also used when restoring other items like furniture or bicycles to achieve a like-new finish. Similarly, sandblasters are used to uncover decorative patterns on glass by removing parts of the glass.
- Creating finishes: Sandblasters can create different polished finishes on metals, stone, and wood. Matte or distressed finishes can also be achieved on various surfaces.
- Tattooing: An electric sandblaster is used to make scratches and engravings on different types of materials.
- Sharpening: Sandblasters are used to remove or add material and textures to various surfaces like rubber, plastic, and ceramics.
In general, sandblasters clean a surface by uniformly etching it with abrasive material. The most common use of a sandblaster is to clean and prepare surfaces like metal, stone, and concrete for further processing or industrial applications.
How to choose electric sand blasters
The following factors to consider when choosing the electric sand blaster machine for sale:
- Applications: Businesses should take into account the types of surfaces and materials the electric sand blaster will be used on. There are different types of sandblasters available. For example, an electric micro sand blaster would not be suitable for use in metal surface painting.
- Media compatibility: Different sandblasters work with different types of blasting media, from sand to aluminum oxide to baking soda. Electric sandblasters for sale may not work with all media, yet some offer different levels of adjustment to cope with different types of media.
- Dust control: Built-in dust extraction or filtration systems can help contain harmful dust and keep the workspace clean.
- Cost: Assess the initial purchase price, ongoing maintenance costs, and potential savings in productivity and efficiency.
Electric sand blaster FAQ
Q1: Are sandblasters electric or air-powered?
A1: There are sandblasters electric and air-powered models. The two types function differently. An air-powered sandblaster needs an air compressor to work, while an electric sandblaster needs an electricity source.
Q2: What are the benefits of an electric sandblaster?
A2: Electric sandblasters have many benefits. They are usually more portable because they don’t need an air compressor. Electric sandblasters are also quieter than their air-powered counterparts. They are also compatible with fine abrasives, and users can choose those to reduce abrasive dust.
Q3: Does sandblasting damage metal?
A3: Sandblasting can damage metals, particularly larger ones if the machine is not used properly. It can also leave a rough surface on the metal. Using the correct blasting material and technique is the key to achieving good results without damaging the metal.
Q4: Can consumers use a sandblaster at home?
A4: This electro gizmo is perfect for DIY enthusiasts to use at home. They can use the machine to clean and prepare surfaces before painting or restoring parts.
