Using little more than pressurized air and sand, sandblasting is capable of completely stripping a surface of paint, rust, and any other unwanted materials. Manufacturers offer a variety of sandblasters, each designed for different situations, but they all use the same basic principles to clean an object quickly. Below is a brief overview of how these machines work and how best to tailor them to your projects.

How Does a Sandblaster Work?

All sandblasters use pressurized air to fire silica sand or other abrasive mediums at a high velocity. Using a handheld gun, which is lined with ceramic to prevent erosion, the operator can easily control the direction of the sand and the width of the affected area. The differences between types of sandblaster are usually related to how sand is introduced into the gun.

Gravity-Fed Sandblasters

Gravity-fed sandblasters are relatively simple, consisting of an air compressor and hose attached to the nozzle. A small tank on top of the gun holds the sand, which is released when the operator pulls the triggering mechanism.

Siphon Sandblasters

With larger reservoirs than gravity-fed machines, siphon sandblasters are usually a choice for home hobbyists and handymen. These devices have two hoses: one attached to the air compressor and the other that connects to the underside of the sand tank. When the compressor is activated, the air pressure creates a vacuum, which siphons sand from the bottom of the reservoir.

Pressure Blasters

Auto shops and other businesses that rely on sandblasting often use pressure blasters, thanks to their effectiveness and ease of use. Instead of two containers, pressure blasters use a single tank, containing both abrasive material and pressurized air. When the trigger is pulled, the air and sand are released simultaneously, flowing through a single hose to the gun.

Whether you’re removing paint from a brick wall or cleaning up rusty equipment, Steve's Pressure Cleaning & Sandblasting, Inc. offers the reliable service and guaranteed results you need. Their team of highly trained technicians has been serving homes and businesses throughout the Tri-State Area of Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana since 1997, delivering exceptional results on every type of project. Visit their website for more on their sandblasting services, or call (513) 615-2871 to request an estimate today.