http://sandblaster-parts.com/sandblasting-helmets-suits-capes| Sandblasting is a technical, detailed and dangerous job, so knowing the basics of what to do before you blast is pivotal for personal safety and the safety of others.

2. • For most sandblasting
applications, standard
dust masks and face
shields will not provide
sufficient protection.
• Always use specialized
safety glasses or goggles
to protect your eyes.
• A blasting helmet and
supplied air system may
be required for abrasive
sandblasting applications.

3. • Sandblasting suits are often constructed of
canvas or leather and are designed to
minimize blast impact.
• Use a suit that’s created just for
sandblasting to ensure ease of movement,
and therefore, overall productivity.
• Some suits come with a built-in sandblast
hood.
• To protect your hands, special gloves, such
as bead blaster gloves, are recommended.

4. • You may want to choose a gentle, natural medium to start,
such as walnut shells, corn cob, or pumice.
• Consider glass beads when looking for a soft, bright finish.
• Plastic beads deliver a high stripping rate without
damaging or warping the underlying material, and are
excellent for automotive sandblasting.
• For tough jobs, use the hardest medium available: silicon
carbide.
• Choose steel grit for items that will be painted. The grit
leaves an etched surface that makes it easier for paints to
adhere.
• Steel shot leaves a smooth finish and is an excellent media
choice for peening operations.

5. • All blast media is referenced by size or grit number.
• The smaller the particles, the higher the grit number.
• Larger grit will cut faster, leave a coarser finish, and generate more heat.
• Smaller grit will cut slower, leaving a smooth finish.
• For example, 220 to 400 grit is used for fine etching, whereas coarse applications, like
blasting large wood signs, may use grit sizes between 30 and 80.

6. There are many compressors on the market. To
choose the right sandblasting compressor for the
job, consider:
• Air delivery volume
• Horsepower
• Lubrication type
• Portability
• Power source (indoor or outdoor)

7. • Occasional blasting at home can likely be completed using a hobby-style blaster.
• If you’re considering using blast equipment as part of your business, bypass
inexpensive, mass-produced cabinets and blast posts.
• Remember that sandblasting will be rough on your equipment, so you want gear
that will last. Industrial-grade equipment is built to handle everyday wear and tear.

8. Despite the name, sandblasting is best done with a medium other than “beach sand.”
Many sands contain crystalline silica that breaks apart upon impact, creating a dust that
is incredibly dangerous when inhaled. Dust inhalation can cause long-term respiratory
problems like silicosis.

9. • Exposure to silica or crystalline silica can cause silicosis, with symptoms including
weakness and shortness of breath.
• The Occupational Safety and Health Administration monitors air sampling,
ventilation, personal protective equipment, blasting cabinet and room design, and
respirator usage to prevent silicosis.

10. Big A's Place is a direct distributor and aftermarket supplier of sandblasting gear and
equipment. They carry brands including Pirate, RPB, Goodyear, Thunder, Kennametal,
Malyn Ceramics, and Everblast.
For more info, visit http://sandblaster-parts.com/ or call 616-741-9237.

11. Summary
This presentation outlines the steps to take
before a sandblasting project, including
protective gear, sandblast equipment
selection, and safety tips.