Sand blasting process, Industial worker using sand blasting process preparation cleaning surface on steel before painting in factory workshop.

Different types of abrasive blasting

Different types of sandblasting abrasives

Sandblasting is a process in which high-pressure air is used to force abrasive particles against a surface. The abrasives remove paint, rust, or other materials from the surface, leaving it clean and smooth.

There are several different types of abrasives that can be used for sandblasting, including sand, aluminium oxide, silicon carbide, and glass beads. Each type of abrasive has its own benefits and drawbacks, so the best choice for a particular project will depends on the material being blasted and the desired results.

In general, sand is the most commonly used abrasive for sandblasting because it is inexpensive and effective on most surfaces. However, it can also cause damage to delicate surfaces such as glass or chrome. For this reason, more expensive abrasives such as aluminium oxide or silicon carbide are often used for more delicate jobs.

Glass beads are also sometimes used for special applications where a very smooth finish is desired. No matter what type of abrasive is used, sandblasting is an effective way to clean and smooth a variety of surfaces.

Glass bead blasting

Glass bead blasting is a popular type of sandblasting that uses small glass beads to remove paint, rust, and other debris from a surface. The glass beads are fired at high pressure against the surface to be cleaned. The beads then shatter on impact, creating a series of small, precise blasts that remove the debris without damaging the underlying material.

Glass bead blasting is often used to clean metal surfaces prior to painting or welding. It is also used to clean plastic and glass surfaces prior to bonding or adhesion. Glass bead blasting is safe for most materials, but it can damage delicate surfaces such as wood and stone. For this reason, it is important to choose the right blasting media for the job at hand.

Soda blasting

Soda blasting is a safe and effective way to clean a variety of surfaces, including metal, wood, and masonry. The process uses baking soda as the abrasive, which is safe for both people and the environment.

Soda blasting is also less likely to damage the surface being cleaned than other methods, such as sandblasting. Additionally, soda blasting is effective at removing stubborn stains and build-up, making it an ideal choice for both residential and commercial cleaning projects.

If you are looking for a non-toxic way to clean your home or business, soda blasting is a great option to consider. 

Abrasive blasting with crushed glass

Abrasive blasting is a process that uses high-pressure air or water to remove surface contaminants from a variety of materials. Abrasive blasting is often used to clean metal surfaces, but it can also be used on wood, concrete, and fiberglass.

In the past, many abrasive blasting operations used sand as the abrasive material. However, sandblasting can release harmful silica dust into the air, posing a serious health risk to workers. As a result, many companies are now turning to crushed glass as an environmentally friendly alternative to sandblasting.

Crushed glass is made from recycled glass bottles and can be reused multiple times. In addition, crushed glass produces very little dust when used for abrasive blasting. As a result, it is a safer and more environmentally friendly option than sandblasting.

Black diamond blasting

Black diamond blasting is a high-pressure method of cleaning that uses black diamond particles as the abrasive. This type of blasting is typically used to remove paint, rust, or other build-up from metal surfaces. It can also be used to clean stone or concrete surfaces.

Black diamond blasting is an effective way to clean stubborn dirt and grime, and it can also be used to prep surfaces for painting or other types of finishes. When using black diamond blasting, it is important to use the proper safety equipment to protect yourself from the high-pressure stream of particles.

All of these methods have their own unique benefits, but which one is right for your specific needs? That’s something you will need to decide after weighing the pros and cons of each option.

Keep in mind that if you are unsure about which type of sandblasting is best for your project, it’s always a good idea to consult with an experienced professional who can help guide you through the process – such as us!

For more information on our sandblasting services or for a free estimate, please contact us today!