Sandblasting

Sandblasting.
The first sandblasting process was patented as a cleaning method in the US in 1870. Sandblasting is often used for priming a surface for the application of paint or sealants. When painting, one doesn't want to trap dust, dirt, or bubbles in a previous layer of paint, or other imperfections under the new layer. By launching small bits of abrasive at the surface at a high speed, all imperfections are knocked loose and can then be easily washed off, creating an incredibly smooth surface upon which to lay the new layer of primer and then paint. Sandblasting may also be used for such projects as cleaning the hulls of ships or large structures such as bridges, large storage tanks, or other large metal projects.

Sandblasting is described as shooting very fine bits of material at a high-velocity to clean or etch a surface. At one time sand used to be the most commonly used material, but since diseases such as silicosis is caused by extended inhalation of the dust created, other materials are now used. Any small, relatively uniform particles, such as steel grit, copper slag, walnut shells, powdered abrasives, even bits of coconut shell will work. Due to the dangers of inhaling dust during the process, sandblasting should be carefully controlled by using an alternate air supply, protective wear, and proper ventilation. A sandblasting setup usually consists of three different parts: the abrasive, an air compressor, and a blaster nozzle. For etching and small object cleaning, a workstation to hold the piece of glass is also needed, as is some sort of collector to gather up excess dust. Sandblasting is primarily used for two somewhat different applications. The first of these is to clean a surface of anything that may be clinging to it. The second is to either etch or carve designs or words into glass or a similar material.

Comment on "Sandblasting"