Sandblasting Air Consumption

Sandblast Nozzles

When it comes to abrasive blasting, the appropriate mixture of air and media is essential.  We refer to it as sandblasting air consumption.  It is extremely important to understand, that when it comes to the mixture, more is not always better.  This applies to the air and media.  Too much air or too much media creates problems just as too little.  Lets “blast” into sandblasting air consumption and its components.

Siphon Sandblasting Air Demands

In our siphon blasting machines, the air introduces a vacuum effect which draws media into the air stream.  Click here to learn more about siphon blasting.  The air stream and media in combination are aimed at the part(s) and the work begins.  A small piece, called an orifice, controls the amount of air permitted into the mixing sandblast gun chamber.  As orifice size increases, more air flows through the mixing chamber and thus the more media you consume.  We measure airflow in Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) of media. These factors all impact sandblasting air consumption.

Sandblasting and Air Compressors

Air in our blasting process is produced by an air compressor.  Air compressors are typically electric powered devices.  They take air into a special chamber designed to handle high pressure.  Then, when the user opens a valve or sandblast gun, the high pressure air begins to flow outward from the pressure tank.  Typically, the more pressure, measured in Pounds per Square Inch (PSI), the more airflow potential you direct to the mixing chamber.  This combination determines how much media is consumed.  

Finally, to generate a desired CFM, you need an air compressor capable of handling that amount of load.  Air compressors are typically have a horsepower rating when you by them.  If you have any questions about this process, please feel free to call us or email us.  All Cyclone cabinets are fully welded steel, sealed, and powder coated to last.