Back when sandblasting was first invented, it was a revolutionary concept. Used for everything from machine cleaning to surface preparation, this unique technique combined compressed air and sand (the abrasive media) to great effect. But over time, a few problems emerged.
As a blanket technique, sandblasting didn’t work perfectly for different tasks. For example, the sand would leave dust inside machinery or damage delicate surfaces during restoration. While it was effective in some places, others needed a new solution.
That’s when different blasting techniques started to emerge. If you’re considering hiring a team offering mobile sandblasting services, it’s vital to understand the difference between these techniques. That way, you can select the one that’s best for your needs!
Three Types of Mobile Sandblasting Services
There are three common types of mobile sandblasting services. Each one is uniquely suited to different applications, so always make sure to consult your chosen sandblasting specialist before selecting which service is best for you.
We’ve left a broad review below to get you started.
Vapour Blasting
First on the list is vapour blasting. This is a technique that combines specialised abrasive media like glass beads with compressed air and water. The water is what makes the real difference here, as it provides a cushion for the abrasive particles. This means this method can remove contaminants from surfaces without causing damage to anything delicate.
Vapour blasting also typically uses a lower air pressure than the other two versions, leaving a satin-smooth finish. That’s what makes this a popular choice for machine maintenance or vintage vehicle restoration!
Grit Blasting
Grit blasting lives on the other end of the spectrum from vapour blasting. Where the latter is designed for delicate surfaces and complex machinery, grit blasting is perfect for high-impact work.
The small, angular abrasive particles used in grit blasting are where this technique gets its name. The ‘grit’ particles are perfectly suited to cleaning metal surfaces, removing paint, and preparing surfaces for coating. They’re extremely abrasive and effective at removing rust, old paint, old coatings, or other contaminants in a flash.
However, it’s important to note that this high-impact method is not suitable for delicate surfaces. Using grit blasting on the wrong surface could damage it, so always consult with your blasting specialist before work begins.
Garnet Blasting
Finally, garnet blasting is exactly what it sounds like: sandblasting using small garnet particles. Garnet is a natural abrasive material that is highly prized for its hardness and durability. This makes it a great choice for removing rust and paint from tough surfaces, particularly when it comes to precision work.
So, how is this different from grit blasting? Well, garnet blasting is actually the most sustainable option of these three methods (if used correctly). Synthetic abrasives can create some environmental concerns, but the naturally angular pieces of garnet don’t have the same issue. Depending on the blasting equipment and the degree of contamination, blasting specialists can also occasionally recycle garnet abrasives several times.
The Different Uses of Sandblasting Services
These different mobile sandblasting services each have unique applications. To establish which technique is best for your needs, let’s review the three most common applications of sandblasting.
Machinery Maintenance
Machinery maintenance is all about blasting dust, rust, and other contaminants off the surface of complex equipment. Due to the nature of machinery blasting, you’ll sometimes be dealing with long-standing machinery, complex mechanisms, or deep-seated corrosion. In all these cases, you need something delicate enough to keep the machine’s surfaces intact but strong enough to blast away the contaminants.
In most cases, vapour blasting is the best choice here. The lower pressure and water help reduce dust left behind as well as leaving behind a smooth finish with no embedded particles.
Surface Preparation
Preparing surfaces properly is a vital step in the coating or painting process, usually requiring a fairly robust blasting technique. Not only most the surface be prepared to take a new coat or adhesive, but it must also be cleared of any old paint, coating, or adhesive.
Generally speaking, surface preparation can be accomplished with grit blasting or garnet blasting, depending on the specific surface being prepared.
Rust or Contaminant Removal
One of the best ways to remove deep-seated rust or corrosion is to blast it away. The same goes for any other long-standing contaminant on a surface. Depending on the surface you’re cleaning and the finish you’re after, you’ll need a different kind of blasting technique.
For example, restoring vintage equipment or vehicles requires a delicate touch, so vapour blasting would be best.
However, robust surfaces that need a thorough clean would do well with a high-impact grit blast.
While these broad guidelines are a great place to start, the best way to be sure of which of the mobile sandblasting services is best for you is to talk to your chosen blasting provider. That way you can discuss your unique needs, line up any peripheral services, and ensure your surfaces will stay in the best possible condition for years to come.
Reach out to Hamilton Blast & Paint for professional mobile sandblasting services.
Source professional mobile sandblasting services from an experienced team with Hamilton Blast & Paint. We offer high-quality grit, vapour, and garnet blasting at a cost-effective price.
Get in touch with us today for a free estimate for sandblasting services.