Compressor for sandblasting. Sandblasting

2024 Author: Howard Calhoun | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 10:16

The operation of pneumatic devices involves interfacing with additional technical equipment. The function of a power activator is performed by a compressor unit, due to which the jet is supplied. There is a wide range of pneumatic equipment, and for each device, a choice of special equipment is expected. From this point of view, the sandblasting compressor belongs to the standard solutions designed for domestic or semi-professional use. Although the apparatus performs very demanding tasks, to ensure its function requires the average performance of an auxiliary installation - usually an air type.

Sandblasting Technology

The essence of this operation is to spray a mixture containing air and abrasive elements. Almost all air pistols work on the same principle, only their tasks may be different. For example, a fairly widespread group of inflatable tools that allow you to inflate tires, mattresses, boats, etc. In turn, sandblasting is a subclass of “blowing” operations, the task of which is to displace dirt and other foreign elements and masses due to force air flow. At the same time,sandblasting has a higher abrasive effect, due to the content of fine particles in the air jet.

Sandblasted to achieve a sanding effect. This is not just cleaning the surface and removing dirt, but a complete renewal of the external structure of the material, which allows the implementation of a pneumatic apparatus. The compressor provides enough power to remove rust, paint, mildew and other unwanted deposits.

Interaction of sandblasting and compressor

The quality of the operation performed depends on how correctly the model of the compressor unit is selected for the sandblasting tool. In addition, it is important to take into account the features of the pairing of two working components already in the process of performing the procedure. In particular, the compressor for sandblasting must be removed from the immediate place of work by at least 3 meters. If it comes to applying paintwork, then this distance can be observed “by eye”, based on the specific working conditions. However, the spraying of abrasives poses a serious danger to the operator and to other objects that are in the zone of functional coverage of sandblasting.

You should also responsibly approach the connection of the two units. To do this, manufacturers complete the equipment with special hoses, fasteners and couplings.

Types of compressor equipment

There are several types of compressors,each of which can theoretically provide the function of a pneumatic tool. However, not every bundle will guarantee optimum performance and energy savings. Most often, air models are used to maintain the operation of pneumatic devices. They rationally consume electricity, while giving out the necessary power reserve. Such installations are usually used in auto repair shops. An air compressor for sandblasting will also find its use in domestic needs, if, for example, it is necessary to clean certain sections of the facade or update garden equipment.

Pneumatic equipment is also supplemented with screw air supply units, but these are already options for more complex tasks. In general, belt, screw and piston models are designed for industrial use and are rarely used with compact pneumatics.

Key characteristics of compressors

The compressor is characterized by such indicators as power, performance and volume of the receiver. The first two parameters are interrelated, so they should be considered together. Small units with a power of 1.5 kW are capable of delivering a capacity in the range of 50-100 liters per minute. This is the minimum level of power potential that a modern sandblasting compressor has. The characteristics of more solid units suggest a volume in the range of 2-5 thousand liters.

As for the receiver, it is rarely present incomplete set of air compressors, and in the equipment of screw and piston models it can hold about 200-300 liters. The very presence of a receiver in a sandblasting compressor is considered by many to be superfluous, but such equipment is also found. In such cases, the volume of the damper varies from 40 to 100 liters.

Pressure readings

Still, one of the most important performance indicators of the compressor is the level of pressure. As such, this value does not affect either the performance or the volume of the jet. Pressure acts as a kind of regulator that converts power into the required flow force. In this case, it must be taken into account that the compressor for sandblasting must have a pressure corresponding to the tool being serviced. That is, if the maximum allowable value for the gun is 7 bar, then it is unacceptable to use a 10 bar compressor for it. Operating in this mode may physically break the sandblaster.

The best option is to purchase a compressor with the ability to adjust operating parameters. This option makes the equipment versatile, as it can be used for tools with different performance indicators.

Compressor maintenance

The main task of the user during the operation of the compressor is to regularly change lubricants and control the reliability of the connection of parts. Depending on the intensity of the use of the unit, the intervals between preventive measures can be weeks or months. By the way, oil changemust be carried out every 300 hours of direct operation. Some models are sensitive to the condition of the filter sponges.

Also, sandblasting can adversely affect the fastening of covers and receivers, while contaminating the compressor cavity. Therefore, along with the oil change, regular cleaning of the internal parts of the equipment should be carried out, relieving it of the presence of condensate.

Exploitation nuances

Preparing the workflow for preparing equipment for use. First of all, you need to install the unit on a stable and level surface. The compressor must be positioned in such a way that its rear ventilation grill has no nearest obstacles within 0.5 m. Adequate provisions should also be made that will physically protect the sandblasting compressor when installed for a long service life. Some manufacturers initially complete the equipment with metal cases, but such equipment makes the compressors heavier and makes it difficult to access their working elements.

Compressor manufacturers

The leading positions in the compressor segment are occupied by manufacturers Abac, Fubag and Polair. The disadvantage of these brands is the focus on the professional needs of clients. Therefore, a targeted choice of installation for a pneumatic unit should be made in the segment of companies such as Zubr,Interskol, Resanta, etc.

In the families of these manufacturers you can find a compressor for sandblasting for little money and with optimal performance. Another thing is that in the process of long-term operation, one must prepare to maintain the working life of the elements of equipment, otherwise it will not last long.

Conclusion

Compressor equipment often costs more than the tool it serves. When deciding which sandblasting compressor to prefer, do not ignore the possibility of expanding the scope of operation of the unit. A household low-power device will not be able to assist in large-scale construction work, however, a semi-professional model with medium power will perform not only the maintenance of an air gun, but also other, more complex tasks. Sets of universal fittings for connection make it possible to connect compressor equipment to both hand tools in the form of the same sandblasting, and to stationary productive equipment.