How to Use Sandblasting Equipment
Sandblasting is a fast, convenient way to remove virtually any finish from a solid surface. Granules are forcefully projected with the use of a compressor in order to clean paint, dirt and other coatings from the surface of the target. The process is simple in theory, but there are certain precautions you should take when using a sandblaster that will help you complete the project in a timely and efficient way. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Plastic tarp
- Safety goggles
- Respirator
- Painter's suit
- Sandblaster
- Silica sand
Instructions
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Move the object you want to sandblast to an open environment, or ventilate the area surrounding an immovable object or surface. Clear the workspace of anything that might get hit by stray sand. Cover all vulnerable surfaces with heavy plastic tarp to keep them clean and unharmed.
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Put on safety goggles. Wear a respirator if you are working indoors. For the best protection, wear a full, hooded painter's suit.
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Check the valves on your sandblaster to ensure that they have been shut off. Fill the tank with a standard granule, such as silica sand. This is the most common media for a multipurpose application.
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Start the compressor by following the manufacturer's instructions. It will be ready for you to use once it has pressurized between 40 and 100 PSI.
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Set the pressure on low initially to avoid marring the targeted surface. Hold the sandblaster at least eight inches from your body and pull the trigger.
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Blast the surface from top to bottom to clean it thoroughly. Use controlled sweeping motions if you are cleaning the surface. Blast short bursts of sand for removing paint and other finishes. Gradually switch to a higher pressure setting as needed until you achieve the desired results.
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References
- Photo Credit tools image by Stelios Filippou from Fotolia.com
