SandBlasting Equipments & Supplies

Sometimes Sandblasting is a labor-intensive, hazardous process that typically is accomplished with a device that blasts sand particles, metal particles or other materials at selected areas of denim garments. The process usually must be done in a room that is shielded from other manufacturing areas, and the worker doing the sandblasting must wear protective gear to prevent being hit by or inhaling airborne sand or other particles.

But now a company called TechnoLines is unveiling its latest laser-scribing system, which features a patented method for creating a worn look typically associated with sandblasting.

This OH-based firm invented the TechnoBlast technology in 1997, and since then has worked to improve and protect the intellectual property rights related to its laser-based scribing process and the software system that drives it. Last year, the U.S. patent office issued three patents to TechnoLines related to TechnoBlast. As of press time, two additional patents had been granted, and several others were pending.

This system incorporates a software program for designing the desired worn look, and a computer-driven laser that simulates the sandblasting process. The designer can use the software to select the placement of a worn section; determine the degree and shape of the worn area; and create unique abrasion patterns to be scribed onto the denim garment in a matter of seconds. For example, TechnoBlast can be used to create the popular feathered abraded look, in which whisker-like lines are scribed onto certain parts of the garment to simulate a worn-in look.

Sandblasting or bead blasting is a generic term for the process of smoothing, shaping and cleaning a hard surface by forcing solid particles across that surface at high speeds; the effect is similar to that of using sandpaper, but provides a more even finish with no problems at corners or crannies.

Historically, the material used for artificial sandblasting was sand that had been sieved to a uniform size. Sand used to be the most commonly used material, but since silicosis (a lung disease) is caused by extended inhalation of the dust created by sand, other materials are now used in its place.

Other materials for sandblasting have been developed to be used instead of sand; for example, steel grit, steel shots, copper slag, glass beads (bead blasting), metal pellets, dry ice, garnet, powdered abrasives of various grades, powdered slag, and even ground coconut shells or corncobs, walnut shells, Baking Soda have been used for specific applications and can produce distinct surface finishes.

This is just a small introduction to the sandblasting process. If you want to explore more advanced information just click below for:

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  Sandblasting Equipment
   
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  Sandblast Materials
   
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  Sandblasting Tips
   
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  Questions About Sandblasting

Question: “We have just purchased a horse trailer. It is steel and has some rust on the roof and other parts of the trailer. We want to sand it down and repaint it and are looking at sandblasting. Ebay has a “sand blasting gun” that you hook to a 5HP compessor, would this work to lightly remove the paint and rust? We are then going to prime it and then put an enamal auto paint, probably white b/c we think it might be more forgiving then a darker color, my dad owns a spray gun.

The local body shops are charging $500, we don’t really care how long it takes, but cannot afford that…

Answer: I have done my fair share of sandblasting .. if the spots are really big .. i would say just talk the trailer to a company that sandblast large items . get them to blast the entire trailer .. the you can fix any holes , prime and repaint trailer will look good as new. when you use a portable baster you use a lot of sand and a 5 horse power compressor will not be able to keep up with the demand of air for more than 5 to 10 minutes at a time. unless it is a small area .. it will take you weeks and cost a lot ..
it also makes a big mess will sand flying everywhere. Also you have to have a proper clothes ..it can be a big problem. In most cases the money you think you will save by doing it yourself , will turn out to cost you twice as much as you think your saving.

If you can’t find some one in the yellow pages that blast large items, then contact your local auto body shops. They will know of someone for sure.

Concerning the color; yes the lighter the color the less it shows. Also white will be cooler for the horses. Dark colors draw and build a lot of heat.. If you want to add a little color do it on the sides if you must but paint the top white; the horses will be grateful…