Sandblasting media

Metal Shop
#2

April,

Where do we get the sandblasting media to refill the hopper? I see this giant thing that looks like it is meant to grind coal slag, is that where the media is coming from?

As tempting as it is for me to tell you otherwise, the answer is NO - that giant thing is the coal forge for the Blacksmithing Committee and the only thing which comes out of that is hot metal and slag. The blast media has all been used. (and whomever used up the last of it did not notify the Metal Shop - coal in your stocking this year)

I already emailed Danny Meeks and he said he was going to pick some up. Let me check on the status of that again.

JAG “Why YES… You Can Use Pine Cones In the Blaster Cabinet - There Is An Adapter Around Here Somewhere” MAN

#3

Awesome! I would bring my own, but as I am unsure what would be acceptable
for the general public, I wouldn’t know what to get.

#4

Sand?

Richard “What is this stuff, anyway” Alexander

#5
1 Like
#6

Please do not use play sand or anything not meant for blasting.

Please see these. http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/category_abrasive-sand-blasters+blasting-media Make sure it has no crystalline silica in it.

For your health and others around you. http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/92-102/

Sandblaster Safety and Troubleshooting Tips
#7

Alex,

While I am sure Richard was kidding, thank you for bringing up the danger of silicosis.

I am pretty sure it was glass beads made for cabinet blasting:

ALC Medium Glass Bead Blasting Abrasive — 25 Lbs.

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200136774_200136774

On the page you linked, it also listed many materials such as walnut shells and aluminum oxide which is probably not traditionally used in that cabinet.

Harbor Freight also carries what appear to be a compatible material:

Northern Tools is a nice place, but they are sometimes inconveniently located depending on where you live.

But again, let me make sure that Danny Meeks hasn’t already purchased media. I have already emailed and texted him. I will call tomorrow.

JAG “My Middle Name Schtick is Apparently Contagious - Please Vaccinate or You May Get Silly-Cosis” MAN

1 Like
Sandblaster Safety and Troubleshooting Tips
#8

If someone reads this that is extremely interested in sandblasting that sandblaster has some terrible leaks and need either replacement or some TLC.

If someone would look into a replacement that offers filtered viewing ventilation as well as a solid build that does not leak that would be extremely helpful.

Desired End State:
A sandblaster that does not have any leaks
A dust collector installed to pull sandblasting media out of the air so you can see clearly.
A solid sand blasting gun that does not clog.

Optional Objectives:
Increased air drying
larger boar air lines if needed currently 20 CFM

#9

I take it you mean “fills the air with dust while in use” leaks?

#10

EXACTLY! As in hold your breath and put on a respirator.

#11

I may have a few leads for new sand blasting cabinets that are nicer and safer to use. If your serious about wanting a new one I could put together a proposal for with 2 or 3 options.

#12

I just don’t understand this fixation on being able to breath… I have always felt that noxious air helps strengthen our lungs. Its just like exercise for them!

3 Likes
#13

I vote for a better cab, it is one of the primary pieces of equipment I use
up there.

1 Like
#14

April,

I vote for a better cab, it is one of the primary pieces of equipment I use up there.

Agreed.

I love blast cabinets and I would like to see one that is larger and leaks a lot less.

JAG “Caution - Abrasive Personality” MAN

#15

We need people to bring options to the BOD meetings and things usually happen.

But it takes legwork to get the quotes etc.

1 Like
#16

What appears to this novice to be a good option

#17

Robert,

But it takes legwork to get the quotes etc.

@Nick already offered so here is his cue and I have started coming to the BOD meetings.

JAG “Now in 60 Grit Grade” MAN

#18

@wandrson
Personally, I like the direct pressure options over the siphon option. Direct pressure gives a more consistent stream of media at a higher speed. Something more along the lines of this, but I’m looking for a adjustable height option, because ergonomics are very important and the cabinet we have now is not nice to blast at stand or sitting.

I’ve used this blaster and it is amazing. it is meant for sitting and the foot pedal raises and lowers to be comfortable to use.
https://ikonicsimaging-c7f.kxcdn.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/736x460/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/c/r/cryelite_1.jpg
http://ikonicsimaging.com/crystalblast-trade-1.html

1 Like
#19

http://dallas.craigslist.org/dal/tls/5119659891.html

#20

April, @amp1276

Ok, NOW we have some suitable abrasive in the Metal Shop to use in the cabinet, but there is of course, a curse upon the blast media.

Cursed Blast Media.jpg2688×1520 1.23 MB

According to Ed, the pile shown here in my photo has some debris in it which needs to be filtered out before being put inside the cabinet hopper. All we need is some 3/16" window screen or other coarse sifting grid to winnow out the crap. If this is not done, then slag ghouls will arise from the coal forge and install Windows Millennium on all of the DMS computers.

Does anyone know if we have some up at the space? (screening material that is - any copies of Millennium were destroyed in the last Clone Wars) Otherwise, Ed related that we use the $10 per 50 lb. bag of stuff from Northern Hydraulic. (but there are two to choose from, so you might ask @AlexRhodes first)

Glass Blast:

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200644633_200644633

Black Diamond

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200022824_200022824

JAG “However, There is Also A Curse Upon Windows Millennium” MAN

2 Likes
#21

Ive ordered a 1/8 sieve that I should receive monday, Ill bring in.

2 Likes