Choosing the right blasting equipment is about adapting the choice to the task, the material to be treated and the environment in which the blasting will be carried out. Here we go through important factors to consider, which components are required and how to ensure a safe and efficient blasting process.

 

What should you consider before buying?

 

Before investing in blasting equipment, it is important to analyze your needs and working conditions. The following questions can help you determine which equipment is most suitable:

 

What material will be blasted? Different materials require different blasting agents and pressure settings.

Should the blasting be done indoors or outdoors? For indoor use, a blasting cabinet is often needed, while mobile blasting pots are better suited for outdoor work.

How often should the blasting be done? For occasional use, simpler equipment may be sufficient, while frequent use requires more robust systems.

What surface should be achieved? For fine surface treatment, a milder blasting agent may be better, while rough cleaning requires a more powerful option.

Which compressor is needed? Blasting requires a sufficiently powerful compressor to operate the equipment without interruption.

What is needed to blast?

 

To carry out a blasting process, the following equipment is required:

 

Blast gun or blasting pot – Depending on whether it is a closed or open blasting process.

Blasting agent – ​​Selected depending on the material and desired surface.

Compressor – Supplies the blasting equipment with compressed air.

Blasting cabinet or work area – For controlled blasting and collection of blasting agent.

Personal protective equipment – ​​Protects the user from dust and particles.

How big a compressor is needed for blasting?

 

The capacity of the compressor is crucial for effective blasting. To ensure continuous operation and the correct pressure, the following factors should be considered:

 

Airflow (FAD – Free Air Delivery): Measured in liters per minute (l/min) or cubic feet per minute (CFM).

Pressure (bar/PSI): Most blasting guns require between 4-8 bar for optimal operation.

Tank size: A larger tank means that the compressor does not have to work constantly, which reduces wear and tear.

Compressor capacity guidelines:

 

Smaller blasting guns: 250-400 l/min at 6 bar

Medium blasting guns: 500-800 l/min at 6-8 bar

Larger blasting equipment: 1000+ l/min at 6-8 bar

A compressor that is too weak will lead to uneven blasting and longer working times, while a compressor that is too powerful can cause unnecessary wear and higher energy consumption.

 

See our range of compressors here

 

Choosing a blast cabinet

 

Blaster cabinets are used to blast smaller objects in a controlled environment. When choosing a cabinet, the following factors should be considered:

 

Size of the cabinet – Adapt to the largest objects to be blasted.

Work lighting – Ensures good visibility while working.

Blast gun capacity – Should match the performance of the compressor.

Filtration system – To reduce dust and recycle blasting media.

Materials and construction – Durability and sealing are important for long life and efficient operation.

For workshops and industrial use, a larger cabinet with recirculating blasting media can be a good investment, while simpler cabinets are suitable for occasional use.

 

TIG welding is a welding method used to achieve high precision and quality in weld joints. One of the most basic decisions a welder must make is choosing between an AC/DC TIG welder and a DC TIG welder. This article will compare these two types of welds in detail, and explain how they differ in practice. See our range of TIG welders here.

 

Basics of AC and DC welding

DC (Direct Current):

 

Direction of Current: The current flows in a single direction.

Polarities: DC TIG welding uses two polarities – DCEN (Direct Current Electrode Negative) and DCEP (Direct Current Electrode Positive).

DCEN: Most common in TIG welding, where the electrode is negative and the workpiece is positive. This provides deep penetration of the weld.

DCEP: Rarely used in TIG welding as it generates high heat on the electrode, which can cause rapid degradation.

AC (Alternating Current):

 

Direction of Current: The current changes direction regularly, usually 50 or 60 times per second (Hz).

Balance Control: The ability to adjust the balance between the positive and negative halves of the AC cycle is critical for some materials, especially aluminum.

Material Compatibility

DC TIG Welders:

 

Steel and Stainless Steel: DC is superior for welding carbon steel, stainless steel, copper, and most other metals except aluminum and magnesium.

Advantages: Provides a stable arc, deep penetration, and a clean weld.

AC/DC TIG Welders:

 

Aluminum and Magnesium: AC current is necessary for welding aluminum and magnesium. These materials have an oxide layer that requires AC current for effective removal.

Oxide Breakdown: AC current helps break down and remove oxides from the surface of aluminum, which is necessary for a clean weld.