How to Use the Grip Sandblaster

Cars are just one material that can be sandblasted.

Sandblasters can seem like intimidating pieces of machinery. They are loud, heavy and look as though you would need to be a qualified professional to use one. This is not necessarily the case. Tool manufacturer Grip produces heavy-duty sandblasters which a layman can use as long as they are careful and follow a few steps, as well as the always-helpful Grip manual.

Things You'll Need

• Abrasive material

Instructions

1. Read the Grip instruction manual carefully to ensure you are familiar with the sandblasting processes, and that you know where all the valves and switches are on your particular brand of Grip sandblaster.

2. Put on protective clothes. A powerful Grip sandblaster will throw dust and debris into the atmosphere so it is important that the user wears safety goggles, a dust mask and thick clothing.

3. Check to be sure that all the valves on the sandblaster tank are closed and fill the tank with the type of material suggested by the manufacturer. Many different materials can be used as an abrasive, such as dry ice, steel beads and ground corncobs, but it is recommended that you use a specialized substance such as J-Blast Supafine. Sieve the material into the tank to filter out any thicker pieces of abrasive that could block the nozzle.

4. Pull the ring closure up after you have filled the sandblaster tank. Once the ring closure is in the “up” position, you can turn on the air valve.

5. Open all other remaining valves on your Grip Sandblaster, but do not open the nozzle valve yet.

6. Aim the nozzle of your sandblaster at the material you wish to blast and slowly open the nozzle valve. Sweep the nozzle in a slow, gradual movement over the surface you are blasting until you are happy with the result.

Tips & Warnings

• If possible, do the sandblasting outside. The amount of dust produced does not make the job conducive to an enclosed space. It is also advisable to put down a sheet or tarpaulin so you do not damage your lawn or patio.

References

• migwelding: DIY Sand Blasting
• Dynamite Tool Co: Grip 15009 - 10 Gallon Sandblaster