If you want to change the finish of a plastic product from shiny to matte, sandblasting is a fantastic tool. However, you need to find a professional sandblaster who can perform this job for you quickly and effectively. Here is what you should know about this method before using it.

What Is Sandblasting?

Sandblasting can be used to smooth, clean, give shape to, or finish a hard surface by firing particles of sand at it. The sand ejects at high speed using a pressurized gun. The gun is made up of three major parts: the blasting nozzle, compressed air, and sand or other abrasive media. 

The word “sand” is general and can be used to describe beach, river, or silica sand. In certain circumstances, other media may be used in a sandblaster, like corn cob, plastic, steel grit, or aluminum oxide.

Metal and plastic products are often the best candidates for sandblasting. This method is a much more precise and efficient alternative to sandpaper.

The Sandblasting Process

First, your sandblasting professional will evaluate the tools needed for your particular job. Usually, they’ll choose a hand cabinet or portable blaster, but some companies might use robotic rigs. They’ll also select the blasting media and put on protective clothing, like goggles, a mask, and gloves. Then they’ll cover up the areas that shouldn’t be blasted with tape or plastic, especially if they’re creating a logo or pattern.

The sandblaster will do its job at about six to 12 inches away from the object’s surface. The amount of time needed will vary depending on the size of the item being sanded.

Why Choose Sandblasting?

If you need a plastic product to be matte instead of glossy, sandblasting is your best option. A professional sandblaster can block off pieces of your item to create a logo, message, or other design, which will make your plastic product stand out.

Sandblasting can also clean rust, paint, or dirt off of metal surfaces.

Min Plastics & Supply in Honolulu has offered sandblasting services to residents, contractors, and business owners all over Hawaii for over 60 years. They’re a member of the Association of Plastic Distributors, which means they have the highest quality standards in the plastic industry. Visit their website or call (808) 847-1511 to get started on a project.