• For most sandblasting

applications, standard

dust masks and face

shields will not provide

sufficient protection.

• Always use specialized

safety glasses or goggles

to protect your eyes.

• A blasting helmet and

supplied air system may

be required for abrasive

sandblasting applications.

• Sandblasting suits are often constructed of

canvas or leather and are designed to

minimize blast impact.

• Use a suit that’s created just for

sandblasting to ensure ease of movement,

and therefore, overall productivity.

• Some suits come with a built-in sandblast

hood.

• To protect your hands, special gloves, such

as bead blaster gloves, are recommended.

• You may want to choose a gentle, natural medium to start,

such as walnut shells, corn cob, or pumice.

• Consider glass beads when looking for a soft, bright finish.

• Plastic beads deliver a high stripping rate without

damaging or warping the underlying material, and are

excellent for automotive sandblasting.

• For tough jobs, use the hardest medium available: silicon

carbide.

• Choose steel grit for items that will be painted. The grit

leaves an etched surface that makes it easier for paints to

adhere.

• Steel shot leaves a smooth finish and is an excellent media

choice for peening operations.

• All blast media is referenced by size or grit number.

• The smaller the particles, the higher the grit number.

• Larger grit will cut faster, leave a coarser finish, and generate more heat.

• Smaller grit will cut slower, leaving a smooth finish.

• For example, 220 to 400 grit is used for fine etching, whereas coarse applications, like

blasting large wood signs, may use grit sizes between 30 and 80.

There are many compressors on the market. To

choose the right sandblasting compressor for the

job, consider:

• Air delivery volume

• Horsepower

• Lubrication type

• Portability

• Power source (indoor or outdoor)

• Occasional blasting at home can likely be completed using a hobby-style blaster.

• If you’re considering using blast equipment as part of your business, bypass

inexpensive, mass-produced cabinets and blast posts.

• Remember that sandblasting will be rough on your equipment, so you want gear

that will last. Industrial-grade equipment is built to handle everyday wear and tear.

Despite the name, sandblasting is best done with a medium other than “beach sand.”

Many sands contain crystalline silica that breaks apart upon impact, creating a dust that

is incredibly dangerous when inhaled. Dust inhalation can cause long-term respiratory

problems like silicosis.

• Exposure to silica or crystalline silica can cause silicosis, with symptoms including

weakness and shortness of breath.

• The Occupational Safety and Health Administration monitors air sampling,

ventilation, personal protective equipment, blasting cabinet and room design, and

respirator usage to prevent silicosis.

Big A's Place is a direct distributor and aftermarket supplier of sandblasting gear and

equipment. They carry brands including Pirate, RPB, Goodyear, Thunder, Kennametal,

Malyn Ceramics, and Everblast.

For more info, visit http://sandblaster-parts.com/ or call 616-741-9237.

Summary

This presentation outlines the steps to take before a sandblasting project, including protective gear, sandblast equipment

selection, and safety tips.