Sandblasting is the use of high-pressure media to clean dirt, paint, grease, and other debris from mechanical parts and equipment. It is widely used in industrial circles to prepare items for painting and assembly. Many people who are unfamiliar with the process have questions, and below are answers to some of the most common inquiries.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sandblasting?

How does a sandblaster work?

Sandblasters use an air compressor to blow finely ground silica through a nozzle at high speed. The abrasion cleans the surface, usually metal, of rust, dirt, paint, and other undesirable surface materials. All varieties utilize a pressurized air gun with a ceramic barrel to aim the stream of blast material. The method of feeding the air gun varies. Some models use a gravity-fed system while others use a canister of silica sand under high pressure.

Can you sandblast wood?

You can, but you must be very careful to monitor and adjust the pressure, so you don’t damage the material. The high-pressure media could leave gouges in the wood. It takes a very experienced sandblaster to sand wood without leaving any superficial or structural damage.

What blast media can you use?

The most popular media is silica sand, which is easy to find and inexpensive. Other standard media are tiny glass beads and aluminum oxide, but these are more expensive and not as readily available. When sandblasting occurs inside a booth—rather than outdoors—the media can be reclaimed and recycled to reduce the expense.

What sized items can you sandblast?

Outdoors, you can sandblast items of any size, such as fences, concrete walkways, aluminum buildings, etc. However, indoor blasting booths range in size from just a few inches on each side to 50 feet on each side. It depends on the company you choose for the task, and you should inquire out specifications before you choose a sandblasting provider. 

To schedule reliable, affordable sandblasting, contact Steve's Pressure Cleaning and Sandblasting Inc. in Harrison, OH.  They are locally owned and operated and have served businesses and homeowners around the Greater Cincinnati region since 1997. They also specialize in industrial cleaning, house washing, and patio cleaning. Visit their website to message them online or call (513) 615-2871 to arrange a consultation.