For metal and especially heavy metal parts coating like truck/automotive components, shot blasting and sandblasting are two popular solutions for surface cleaning treatment, but they have differences in working principle, application, and final results are also different. In this article post we will introduce and compare the two from the most concerned points and help select the appropriate solution in actual practice.
Working Principles
Shot blasting is processed by a high-speed shot blasting agent (such as steel grit, aluminum sand, etc.) onto the workpiece surface under the action of compressed air or mechanical force, use the force impact and friction of shot blasting agent to remove dirt, oxide layer or old coating, while improving the surface quality.
Sandblasting makes use of compressed air as the power to form a high-speed jet to spray blast material to workpiece surface. The workpiece appearance or shape changes due to the force impact and cutting effect, the surface obtains a certain cleanliness and different roughness, so that the mechanical properties of the workpiece surface are improved, the fatigue resistance of the workpiece is improved and the adhesion with coating is increased, the durability of the coating film is prolonged, and it is also conducive to the leveling and decoration of the coating.
Application
Shot blasting: it is commonly used for deburring, rust removal, cleaning, and surface strengthening of metal surfaces. It is widely used in automotive, aerospace, shipbuilding, bridges, steel structures & foundry industries.
Sandblasting: it is suitable for the surface treatment of various materials, including thin metal, wood, plastic, etc. It is often used in art carving, glass decoration, furniture manufacturing & stone processing fields.
Does sandblasting and shot blasting damage the material?
Answer: Sandblasting and shot blasting will bring a certain damage to the material surface, especially the sandblasting will increase the surface roughness of the material. Therefore, the characteristics and requirements of the material need to be considered when choosing a blasting or shot blasting method.
Surface effect
Shot blasting: Shot blasting can produce changes in roughness and surface texture, resulting in better adhesion and appearance for subsequent coating, spraying, or coating.
Sandblasting: Sandblasting can produce grinding marks of different particle sizes and shapes, which can change the gloss, texture and appearance of the surface.
Equipment Operation
Shot blasting: usually requires a specialized shot blasting machine or blasting equipment to operate, including spray guns, drive systems, recovery systems, etc.
Sandblasting: can be performed using a hand spray gun or blasting equipment of various sizes, with adjustable blasting pressure and sand flow as needed.
What is the difference in the cost of sandblasting and shot blasting?
Answer: Generally speaking, the cost of sandblasting is lower because the equipment and material requirements are relatively simple. The cost of shot blasting is higher because of the need for complex equipment and higher quality blasting material.
It should be noted that whether it is shot blasting or sandblasting, it is necessary to select the appropriate shot blasting agent or sandblasting material according to the specific application and requirements, and take necessary safety measures, such as wearing protective equipment and with dust control etc.
