SandBlasting Equipments & Supplies

You can think that sandblasting is always dry. The slightest amount of moisture will plug up a blaster. You ever go to the beach and pick up wet sand with your hand?, theres no way that will ever go though a nozzle.

But, in fact, there is a wet sandblasting type. Wet sandblasting is more like powerwashing,where sand is mixed in with the water for abrasive purposes.I’ve seen it used in industrial applications like bridges or on sidewalks.

Wet Sandblasting is a common procedure for removing paint and rust from steel or other metal surfaces. With this procedure we use an abrasive material mixed with the waterjet to create an abrasive spray to create the desired white metal finish, perfect for recoating.

A recent development along the lines of abrasive cleaning is “Water Soluble Media” (baking soda) which offers distinct advantages over wet sand blasting.

For most cleaning and depainting jobs, the new portable soluble media blasting media is largely desirable as disposal costs are usually greatly reduced. Because of the extreme abrasive qualities of different sand and garnet, baking soda based media is often preferred in certain applications such as glass, soft metals, brick and ceramic.

Here you have a small video showing a couple guys making some good time using a wet sandblaster pressure wash.

Hi.

I want to start making some custom wood signs using sandblasting. I’ve seen lots of different sandblasting kits and hoppers, and I’ve not found anywhere what is used for the masking.

Can you help with this?

Thanks!
K.Kinsala

“Resist” is the mask used to keep the abrasive off the areas you don’t want blasted. Hand cut masks are made by literally cutting the design out of a piece of material that will resist the abrasive long enough to get the effect you want on the wood.

You can draw on the resist or transfer the design with carbon paper.A good way is to print the design life size – Then use Spray Mount glue on the back side of the paper, stick it directly on the resist and cut through both to create the mask.Make sure to keep your knives sharp at all times or the mask will stretch as you cut it.Some start out using Contac brand paper for their first hand cut masks. It’s cheap, but it has its problems. The glue may not remove easily and it often takes several layers if you are using an aggressive material such as iron bits.

Layering makes it not so cheap but it is easily available. Use the
foam cushioned type for deeper cuts. It lasts a little longer and costs about the same. Several companies make vinyl and rubber resists intended for sandblasting. you get a better product for your money. They vary in thickness, The 8 to 25 mil varieties from 3M, Anchor
Continental and others cut easily and work well. To find sandblasting
resists, check in stained glass magazines for ads, ask at a local stained glass shop or do an Internet search. Another possible source is a commercial shop that advertises sandblasting work.

Thanks for this interesting question.

“The Sandblasting Expert”

Cleaning bricks with sandblasting techniques can be the perfect solution or a nightmare!

Dry sandblast cleaning is a relatively new method of cleaning recently built masonry, In spite the system has been used for many years in masonry restoration work.

Most experts prefer sandblasting over conventional wet (acid) cleaning because of possible adverse acid reactions with certain types of brick. Other designers are reluctant to permit sandblast cleaning from fear the blasting will erode the face of the brick and mortar joints. Nevertheless, with a qualified operator, proper specifications and good job inspection, sandblasting bricks is as good as any other system and is sometimes superior in many ways.

This is my recommended procedure for Sandblasting bricks:

• Wait for mortar to harden. Brickwork should be completely dry and at least seven days old, preferably 14 days.
• Remove all large mortar particles with hand tools before blasting. Use wooden paddle, the rough edge of a brick, or metal scrape hoe. Chisels may be used if necessary to remove hardened mortar or concrete. This “pre-cleaning” is a very important part of sandblast cleaning. Sandblast operator would irreparably damage wall if large droppings are left for him to remove by blasting.
• Provide adequate protection for all non-masonry surfaces adjacent to work areas, Use plastic sheeting and duct tape to protect windows, doors, etc. If possible, painting, caulking, etc. should be done after sandblast operation is completed.
• When all surfaces are prepared and protected, the operator can begin a first test cleaning.