Types of Abrasive Blasting and Their Benefits

Abrasive blasting, also known as sandblasting, is a method used to prepare surfaces for finishing. During the process of sandblasting, a sanding medium is blasted all over the workpiece using pressurized air. This process not only makes the workpiece smoother and stronger, but also removes any debris. Sandblasting is very common when working with glass and metal, but can be used for a wide variety of material. 

Abrasive blasting is very versatile, and can be used for both wet and dry blasting. While the name sandblasting implies the use of sand, any gritty materials can be used in the process of abrasive blasting such as copper, walnut, steel grit, and synthetic abrasive blasting material. Abrasive blasting is mostly used to prep surfaces for further finishing or painting, since abrasive blasting is not as effective as a vibratory finisher when it comes to deburring workpieces with holes or crevices. Common uses for sandblasting include cutting, etching, abrading, burr removal, oxide removal, surface cleaning, and surface preparation. 

While sandblasting offers many perks, inhaling the sanding media is very dangerous, and sandblasters must be controlled very carefully. Typically a facility must be specially outfitted for sandblasting, and safety protocol met before it can be used for mass finishing applications.  Mikro’s rigorous quality assurance programs ensure the safety of those operating the equipment. 

Many clients choose sandblasting because it gets the job done at the level you expect at a price you will like. At Mikro, we only carry the best abrasive blasting equipment, and require that all of our manufacturers meet very strict quality standards, ensuring our customers are well taken care of. 

If you are not ready to fully commit to an investment in sandblasting, contact Mikro and ask about or Job Shop. The Mikro Job Shop offers convenient, onsite sandblasting services that are fast and reliable. In addition to sandblasting, Mikro offers vibratory finishing, degreasing, and whatever cleaning services you might need to complete the process. Also, ask us about our custom process testing. Our team of engineers can ensure that your facility is operating at its highest possible efficiency, giving your customers their product in a timely fashion, and giving you more time to help more customers. Call Mikro today, and let us set you up for success.