What Is a Sandblasting Cabinet?
A sandblasting cabinet is a closed system where abrasive media is directed at a workpiece using compressed air. The cabinet contains the blasting action, preventing mess and protecting the user. Inside the cabinet, users control the blasting gun through built-in gloves and view the work through a sealed window. Many cabinets feature lighting and dust extraction systems for visibility and cleanliness.
https://www.kramerindustriesonline.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-sandblasting-cabinets-what-they-are-and-how-they-work/
The Surface Prep Process: Step-by-Step
1. Select the Right Cabinet
Choose between suction (siphon) and pressure blasting systems. Suction systems are suitable for light-duty use, while pressure systems offer more power and are ideal for tough or industrial jobs.
2. Choose the Correct Abrasive Media
Different media types achieve different finishes. For surface prep, the most common media include:
Aluminum Oxide – Aggressive and durable, ideal for rust and paint removal.
Glass Beads – Less aggressive, good for cleaning without changing part dimensions.
Steel Grit – Excellent for heavy-duty rust and scale removal.
Garnet or Silicon Carbide – Sharp, angular media that provides excellent surface profiling.
3. Prepare the Workpiece
Ensure your part is clean and dry. Remove grease or oil before blasting, as media can’t effectively remove oily residues and it could damage equipment.
4. Adjust Settings for Consistency
Adjust the air pressure and nozzle size based on your media and material. Higher pressure increases cleaning power but can damage softer materials. Begin at a lower pressure and adjust upward as needed.
5. Use Consistent Technique
Hold the blasting gun at a steady angle (usually 45–60 degrees) and keep it moving to avoid pitting or uneven finishes. Overlapping passes ensure full coverage and uniform surface texture.
Benefits of Using Sandblasting Cabinets for Surface Prep
Controlled Environment – Keeps dust and debris contained, improving operator safety and cleanliness.
Repeatable Results – Allows for consistent finishes on multiple parts, essential for production or restoration work.
Media Recycling – Reduces material waste and operating costs.
Minimal Cleanup – All media and residue stay inside the cabinet, eliminating the need for extensive post-blasting cleanup.
Pro Tips for Mastery
Maintain Your Equipment – Regularly check for worn nozzles, clogged filters, and cracked gloves.
Monitor Media Quality – Reuse media responsibly; overused abrasive becomes less effective and may cause dust buildup.
Keep Lighting Bright – Clear visibility ensures you won’t miss spots or overblast sensitive areas.
Log Your Settings – For repeat jobs, keep a record of pressure, media type, and nozzle size for consistent results.
What Is a Sandblasting Cabinet?
A sandblasting cabinet is a closed system where abrasive media is directed at a workpiece using compressed air. The cabinet contains the blasting action, preventing mess and protecting the user. Inside the cabinet, users control the blasting gun through built-in gloves and view the work through a sealed window. Many cabinets feature lighting and dust extraction systems for visibility and cleanliness.
https://www.kramerindustriesonline.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-sandblasting-cabinets-what-they-are-and-how-they-work/
The Surface Prep Process: Step-by-Step
1. Select the Right Cabinet
Choose between suction (siphon) and pressure blasting systems. Suction systems are suitable for light-duty use, while pressure systems offer more power and are ideal for tough or industrial jobs.
2. Choose the Correct Abrasive Media
Different media types achieve different finishes. For surface prep, the most common media include:
Aluminum Oxide – Aggressive and durable, ideal for rust and paint removal.
Glass Beads – Less aggressive, good for cleaning without changing part dimensions.
Steel Grit – Excellent for heavy-duty rust and scale removal.
Garnet or Silicon Carbide – Sharp, angular media that provides excellent surface profiling.
3. Prepare the Workpiece
Ensure your part is clean and dry. Remove grease or oil before blasting, as media can’t effectively remove oily residues and it could damage equipment.
4. Adjust Settings for Consistency
Adjust the air pressure and nozzle size based on your media and material. Higher pressure increases cleaning power but can damage softer materials. Begin at a lower pressure and adjust upward as needed.
5. Use Consistent Technique
Hold the blasting gun at a steady angle (usually 45–60 degrees) and keep it moving to avoid pitting or uneven finishes. Overlapping passes ensure full coverage and uniform surface texture.
Benefits of Using Sandblasting Cabinets for Surface Prep
Controlled Environment – Keeps dust and debris contained, improving operator safety and cleanliness.
Repeatable Results – Allows for consistent finishes on multiple parts, essential for production or restoration work.
Media Recycling – Reduces material waste and operating costs.
Minimal Cleanup – All media and residue stay inside the cabinet, eliminating the need for extensive post-blasting cleanup.
Pro Tips for Mastery
Maintain Your Equipment – Regularly check for worn nozzles, clogged filters, and cracked gloves.
Monitor Media Quality – Reuse media responsibly; overused abrasive becomes less effective and may cause dust buildup.
Keep Lighting Bright – Clear visibility ensures you won’t miss spots or overblast sensitive areas.
Log Your Settings – For repeat jobs, keep a record of pressure, media type, and nozzle size for consistent results.