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Sandblasting vs. Shot Blasting: How to Choose

admin02/12/2022

While they have similar names, similar goals, and are both abrasive material-blasting techniques to clean and restore materials. Sandblasting is the less aggressive of the two, but no longer uses sand to blast the surface to be restored. When preparing surfaces for painting, there are various ways of doing it. Sandblasting companies would argue that sandblasting is the best way to do it. However, shot blasting specialists would argue their technique is the way to go.

If you are looking for the best sandblasting service available, look no further than Industry Painting. We provide the best abrasive material preparation services available for a lasting finish to various surfaces.

How Does Sandblasting Work?

Sandblasting is an abrasive blasting technique used to prepare various surfaces for painting. It uses pressurized air to propel abrasive material at the surface removing the following types of debris:

  • Rust
  • Corrosion
  • Chipped Paint
  • Contaminants
  • Dirt

When sandblasting is completed, the surface is like new. When the material listed above is removed, it allows better adhesion between the newly applied coat of paint and the surface. With a greater degree of adhesion of the paint will last quite a bit longer.

Important Factors

The material used to treat the surfaces fall into two categories. They are:

  • Soft Abrasives
  • Hard Abrasives

Hard Abrasives Include the Following Material:

  • Silicon Carbide
  • Glass Beads
  • Aluminum Oxide
  • Steel Shot
  • Steel Grit

Soft Abrasives Include the Following Material:

  • Baking Soda
  • Plastic Beads
  • Walnut Shells

Hard abrasives are typically used when preparing metal alloys. Soft abrasives cannot prepare metal alloy surfaces adequately. When the scope of the job is considerable, it can take a great deal of blasting material to complete.

Shot Blasting

This technique is considered more aggressive than sandblasting. It is used in those situations where a denser material is needed to properly clean and prepare the surface. It is also used for larger applications.

Important Things to Consider with Shot Blasting

One of the biggest issues with shot blasting is there could be collateral damage if the process isn’t properly confined. It requires strict containment because of the amount of force produced when blasting the surface.

Which is Better?

Because sandblasting is a less aggressive process than shot blasting, it cleans the surface without damaging it, leaving the surface wholly intact. Less material is needed to prepare the surface making it a more cost-effective option too.

Reach out to Industry Painting, a leading metal sandblasting Toronto provider, for more details about why sandblasting is a much-preferred method over shot blasting. No matter the size of your project, we are the leader in sandblasting services. Contact us today to find out why we are the clear choice for all abrasive material treatment projects.

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