The article “What is Sandblasting?” on About Mechanics delves into the practice of propelling fine particles at high velocity to clean or etch surfaces, a technique crucial in various industries. Expertise in sandblasting contributes significantly to surface preparation and refining, ensuring immaculate surfaces for different applications.
Initially using sand as the primary material, sandblasting has evolved due to health concerns such as silicosis caused by sand dust inhalation. Alternatives such as steel grit, copper slag, walnut shells, powdered abrasives, and coconut shell bits are now used for the process. Sandblasting involves careful control, employing alternate air supply, protective wear, and proper ventilation to mitigate health risks.
The setup for sandblasting generally consists of the abrasive, an air compressor, and a blaster nozzle. This technique finds diverse applications, primarily focusing on surface cleaning and etching or carving designs on materials like glass.
The article highlights the historical significance of sandblasting, patented in the US in 1870, and its multiple applications, including surface preparation for painting or sealant application and cleaning structures like ships or large constructions such as the Golden Gate Bridge.
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