Tools, Sharpening and Power Machinery - Sandblast Media

Well, I broke down and bought me a sandblster to clean off paint and rust from some lawn furniture. Now, the question.

Does anyone know of a good source for sandblast media?

Also, I have looked up different abrasives and it seems that aluminum oxide is a pretty good abrasive. Do you know of any environmental or health hazards caused by this media? I WAS planning on using the blaster in the open in my backyard.

Thanks,

John

I see you didnt get a reply,, so I give 2 cents. For rust on steel use silica sand. You can get it at the lumber yard. Use a good dust mask and stay upwind.

Another thing. Silica sand will clean rust well,, blasting paint off is another matter. You need coarse sand,,, hard and sharp. I am not sure where you might find that. I have sand processing plant near here and get it all by the ton but you probably dont have that option.

> Do you know of any environmental or health hazards caused by this media? I WAS planning on using the blaster in the open in my backyard.


Respiratory, injestion, cutting, eye, hearing hazards. Wear respirator, sand balsting gloves, non-ventilated goggles, a face shield and hearing protection (muffs and plugs are ideal).

Environmental hazards abound by the ticket book full. The EPA will be more then unhappy with you. It is not just the media you need to worry about. The air flow will also scatter whatever it is that you are removing as well. Don't know about anyone else, but I have only ever seen a sand blasting rig used in a confined area. I think that in using it in the open you will be begging for trouble.

When I use mine, I use play sand from the toy store. Works like a champ

Silca sand can cause a condition cause siliconosis (sp), which is a lung infection cause by inhaling sand particles. The use of a respirator (not just a dust mask) is highly recommended! Goggles, full clothing, etc should also be used, as the sand gets everywhere.

Walnut shells work well for taking off paint and rust without damaging the surface (important if it's soft metal like aluminum).

Remember that the material you take off could be considered haz-mat, especially if it's old lead paint.

Use a HEPA filter if at all possible. Outside of going to a supplied air system this will provide the best protection for you.