What Is Sandblasting?

There are plenty of companies that deal with coatings and sandblasting, but not everyone knows what this is. It can seem like a complicated process, but once you understand how it works, it will make a lot more sense. The general term means to propel fine particles of materials at a surface to create an etching or to clean off debris. Sand was the most commonly used material to achieve this, which is why it got its name. Sand was eliminated over time because it led to inhaling of the materials and causing disease. A variety of materials are now used for blasting instead of sand, including walnut shells, steel grit, copper slag, coconut shells and powdered abrasives. It is a carefully controlled process and the area in which a person works must be well-ventilated. Proper protective gear is also required.

There are usually three components to a work area. They include an air compressor, the abrasive material and a nozzle. There might also be something to secure the item being blasted, depending on its size and durability. The two main uses for blasting are cleaning materials from a surface and etching or carving designs into an item. The latter is typically used on glass.

The process was invested in the late 1800's. It was first used as a cleaning method and to prime a piece for painting. Blasting made it possible to remove imperfections from a piece before painting over it. This created a smooth surface that helped paint adhere to the item. It was also used for cleaning large surfaces such as vehicles, ships or buildings and architectural structures.

It is one of the best methods for decorating glass. Hand-etching is possible, but blasting is less expensive and less time consuming. It is precise and when done properly, has limited risks. It can be used for both etching and carving. Etching is used to turn glass opaque. Usually this is done when someone wants to put an image or lettering onto glass. The darkness or color of the etching is dependent on the speed and angle of the blasting. Carving is used when someone wants to put the image of a stencil onto a piece of glass. The carving can be very elaborate and decorative.

The cost of blasting varies depending on the materials needed and the intricacy of the project. It is possible to do blasting at home, but the setup and materials are quite expensive. Professional service is probably your best bet, especially if you are in need of a larger job. Regardless of whether you are using blasting for cleaning or for etching and carving, it is important to make sure you find someone qualified with experience with your particular type of project. This ensures they are familiar with the material you want carved, etched or cleaned and that they have the general ability to complete a blasting project. Cost should be a consideration when choosing a professional blaster, but certainly not the only determining factor.


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Stewart Wrighter recently worked with a San Antonio Coatings firm as new developments occur regularly in this field. He worked with a San Antonio sandblasting firm as he sought quotes for an abatement project.