What is metal sandblasting and why is it needed?
Sandblasting (abrasive blasting) is cleaning and preparing a metal surface by directing a stream of abrasive particles (quartz sand, corundum, steel shot) under compressed air pressure. It removes scale, rust, old paint, and contaminants, and creates a surface roughness necessary for good coating adhesion.
Which abrasive materials do you use?
Depending on the task, we use quartz sand, fused aluminum oxide, steel shot, or copper slag. Fused aluminum oxide is used for thin and critical surfaces – it removes minimal metal while providing high‑quality preparation. Steel shot is used for heavy structures where high roughness is needed for anti‑corrosion coatings.
What level of surface cleanliness does sandblasting provide?
Cleanliness level is controlled by pressure, type, and size of abrasive. We achieve degrees Sa 2½ and Sa 3 according to GOST ISO 8501-1 – complete removal of rust, scale, and contaminants, with a uniform grey‑white metal color. This degree is mandatory for most anti‑corrosion coating specifications.
Is sandblasting required before powder coating?
For products used in aggressive environments or outdoors, sandblasting before coating is a recommended or mandatory step. It creates a roughness Ra 6–12 µm, which greatly increases adhesion of powder or liquid coatings. Without it, paint may peel off in the first season.
Can I order sandblasting as a separate service?
Yes – we accept parts from external customers. We work with parts and structures made of steel, stainless steel, aluminum. Our blasting cabinet can handle parts of substantial size – please check dimensions with our manager by phone 8 (800) 201-81-98 or at ik37@bk.ru, we will reply promptly with timing and cost.
Does sandblasting damage thin metal?
With properly selected parameters – no, and our process engineers control this on every order. Pressure, abrasive type, and size are chosen for the specific material and thickness. For sheet metal thinner than 1 mm, we can suggest alternatives – chemical etching or mechanical matting – to avoid distortion.
How soon after sandblasting should metal be painted?
Cleaned metal begins to oxidize within 2–4 hours – especially in humid conditions. That is why at our facility, sandblasting and powder coating are done sequentially on the same site: after the blasting cabinet, the product goes directly to coating on the same day, without pause or intermediate storage.
