Sand Blasting Process

1. Abrasive Material: While traditionally sand was used, various other materials such as glass beads, aluminum oxide, steel grit, and silicon carbide are now commonly used due to health and environmental concerns associated with silica dust.
2. Equipment:
   • Blasting Cabinet: For small-scale, contained work.
   • Blasting Room: For larger projects, allowing operators to work inside a controlled environment.
   • Portable Blasters: For fieldwork, where mobility is essential.
3. Nozzle and Air Compressor: High-pressure air from a compressor is used to propel the abrasive through a nozzle onto the surface being treated.

Applications of Sandblasting

1. Surface Preparation: Removing old paint, rust, or other contaminants to prepare surfaces for new coatings or finishes.
2. Cleaning: Cleaning machinery, tools, and industrial equipment.
3. Deburring: Removing burrs and flash from machined or fabricate parts.
4. Etching and Carving: Creating designs or patterns on glass, stone, and other materials.
5. Restoration: Restoring old buildings, monuments, and other structures by removing grime and pollutants.

Safety Considerations

1. Protective Gear: Operators should wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators, protective suits, gloves, and eye protection to prevent inhalation of dust and contact with abrasive materials.
2. Ventilation: Adequate ventilation in the work area is crucial to prevent the accumulation of dust and hazardous materials.
3. Material Handling: Proper handling and disposal of abrasive materials to avoid environmental contamination.
4. Training: Operators should be properly trained in the use of sandblasting equipment and safety procedures.

Environmental and Health Concerns

• Silica Dust: Traditional sand blasting can generate silica dust, which is a serious health hazard leading to lung diseases like silicosis. Many regulations now require the use of safer alternative abrasives.
• Waste Management: Proper disposal of used abrasives and contaminants is essential to avoid environmental pollution.

Alternatives to Sand Blasting

Given the health risks and environmental concerns, several alternatives to traditional sand blasting have been developed, including:

• Soda Blasting: Uses baking soda as the abrasive, which is less aggressive and safer for softer surfaces.
• Dry Ice Blasting: Uses dry ice pellets that sublimate upon impact, leaving no residue.
• Laser Cleaning: Uses laser technology to remove surface contaminants without the need for abrasive materials.

By understanding the sand blasting process, its applications, and the necessary safety measures, operators can effectively and safely use this powerful technique in various industrial and artistic applications.

At Evercast, we also have our own sandblasting machines to handle the loose structures or burrs on the surface after die casting. This process also prepares the surface for subsequent plating or coating processes. Currently, we use rounded steel grit for sandblasting, with sizes ranging from 60 to 180 mesh, depending on the product requirements.