Sandblasting uses compressed air to shoot abrasive materials at surfaces. It cleans, strips, or smooths them.
The type of sand or abrasive material you pick really matters for both results and safety. Some people still think silica sand works, but honestly, you should never use it—it’s dangerous for your lungs.
Luckily, there are safer options that actually work better. Some abrasives are gentle enough for delicate jobs, while others power through rust and thick paint.
Choosing the Best Sand for Sandblasting
The sand for sandblasting you choose can make or break your sandblasting project. Different sands suit different jobs, and things like hardness and size play a big role.
4 Types of Sand Used for Sandblasting
Silica sand used to be the go-to for sandblasting. It’s just quartz, and it does clean metal and concrete well.
But now, silica sand is banned in lots of places because inhaling the dust can wreck your lungs. It’s not worth the risk.
River sand is a softer, gentler option. The grains are rounded, so they don’t chew up wood or thin metal.
It’s cheaper, but honestly, it doesn’t last long. If you’re blasting something fragile, though, it’s not a bad pick.
Angular sand is a whole different animal. The sharp edges slice through tough coatings and rust fast.
It’s the choice when you need to clean heavy steel or iron, but it will leave a rougher finish.
Manufactured sands give you more consistency. These are made by crushing and sorting to get just the right size and shape.
They tend to work more predictably than whatever you scoop out of a river or beach.
4 Key Properties for Effective Sandblasting
Particle size changes how aggressive your blasting will be. Fine sand (80-120 mesh) is for gentle cleaning and smooth finishes.
Coarse sand (16-30 mesh) rips off heavy paint and rust way faster. It’s not subtle, though.
Hardness tells you how well the sand will cut. Harder sands last longer and clean faster.
Softer sands break down quickly. They won’t wreck a delicate surface, but you’ll go through more of it.
Shape matters too. Angular grains cut deeper and rougher, while round grains leave things smoother but take longer.
Dust content is a big deal for health and visibility. Low-dust sands keep the air clearer and are just safer to work with.
Comparing Sand to Alternative Media
Glass beads are a nice alternative. They clean without gouging, and you can reuse them several times.
They’re pricier than sand but worth it for aluminum or stainless steel. The finish is pretty slick.
Steel grit is the heavy hitter. It’ll chew through the worst coatings and rust, and it lasts a long time.
It’s heavier and costs more up front, but if you’re working on industrial stuff, it’s the top choice.
Plastic media is surprisingly gentle. It strips paint without hurting the surface underneath.
This makes it perfect for aircraft parts or sensitive equipment, though it’s definitely the most expensive option.
Walnut shells are kind of the eco-friendly pick. They break down naturally and won’t mess up the environment.
They’re good for wood and soft metals, but don’t expect them to handle heavy rust. They’re just not strong enough.
Safety and Environmental Considerations
Sandblasting isn’t just messy—it can be dangerous for your health and the environment. You really need to pick safer materials and follow the right safety steps.
Health Risks of Using Traditional Sand
When you blast with silica sand, it creates dust that’s basically deadly. The tiny particles get deep into your lungs and cause silicosis.
Silicosis doesn’t show up right away. Over time, it scars your lungs, and you can’t undo the damage.
Common symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent cough
- Chest pain
- Fatigue
The disease can keep getting worse even after you stop being exposed. Long-term exposure sometimes leads to lung cancer or other serious breathing issues.
Lots of countries have banned or restricted silica sand for blasting. If you’re in an older facility or somewhere with weak rules, you’re at higher risk.
Even a little exposure can hurt you. New workers might not realize the risk until years later when symptoms show up.
Safe Handling and Usage Tips
Wearing the right safety gear is non-negotiable. Everyone blasting should use approved respirators.
Essential safety equipment:
- Supplied-air respirators if you’re in a closed space
- Full-face shields for your eyes and face
- Heavy-duty gloves to protect your hands
- Protective clothing that covers your skin
Ventilation is huge. You need to get rid of the dust, and if you’re outside, pay attention to the wind so you don’t blow it everywhere.
Never eat, drink, or smoke in the blasting area. Dust sticks to your hands and clothes, and you don’t want to ingest it by accident.
Regular health checks are smart. Companies should offer lung function tests to catch problems early.
Training is key. New workers need hands-on experience before they go solo, and everyone should know the risks and procedures.
Eco-Friendly Sandblasting Options
There are several alternatives to traditional sand that offer safer, more environmentally friendly options. These materials either break down naturally or you can reuse them several times.
Popular eco-friendly options:
| Material | Benefits | Best Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Walnut shells | Biodegradable, soft | Paint removal, delicate surfaces |
| Corn cob | Natural, low dust | Cleaning, light rust removal |
| Recycled glass | Reusable, effective | Heavy-duty cleaning |
| Aluminum oxide | Long-lasting, precise | Metal preparation |
Sodium bicarbonate works nicely for sensitive surfaces. It dissolves in water, so you don’t have to worry much about leftover waste or harming nearby plants.
Some facilities now mix water with abrasive materials for wet blasting. That move cuts dust by as much as 90% versus the old dry methods—pretty impressive, honestly.
Vacuum recovery systems grab used materials so you can reuse them. Over time, this reduces waste and saves a bit on material costs.
Many companies go for enclosed blasting booths to keep particles and dust contained. This setup helps protect both workers and the environment around the site.