Which sand for sandblasting should you choose?

Types of abrasive for sandblasting

Not every sand is suitable for sandblasting. In fact, classic quartz sand is used less and less often because it can generate harmful silica dust. What abrasive for sandblasting is currently used?

1. Quartz sand – a traditional, but not always the best solution

Quartz sand used to be the most commonly used sandblasting material. It is cheap and readily available, but its use may be harmful to health. During work, silica dust is produced, which can lead to silicosis. Therefore, in many countries its use has been restricted.

2. Steel shot – for heavy-duty applications

Steel shot is an ideal solution for aggressive sandblasting of metal, removing rust and paint. It is very durable and can be used multiple times. It works great in cabinet sandblasters and siphon sandblasters, available from industrial machinery manufacturer Cormak.

3. Fused alumina – for precision processing

Fused alumina is one of the hardest abrasives, making it an ideal choice for sandblasting demanding surfaces. It is often used for cleaning steel elements and preparing surfaces for painting.

4. Glass microbeads – gentle processing

If you are wondering which sand for sandblasting wood to choose, glass microbeads can be a good solution. They allow gentle surface cleaning without the risk of damage. They also work well for aluminum and other soft metals.

5. Plastic media – for precise restoration

This is one of the gentlest abrasives, often used to clean car bodywork components and injection molds. Ideal for sandblasting plastics and parts with complex shapes.

What grit size for sandblasting sand?

Besides the type of abrasive, its grit size is also important. Which grit size for sandblasting sand will be best?

• Fine fraction (0.1–0.3 mm) – for precision work, e.g. on wood, aluminum.
• Medium fraction (0.3–0.8 mm) – for general use, e.g. cleaning metal.
• Coarse fraction (1–2 mm) – for aggressive sandblasting, e.g. removing thick layers of rust.

How much does sandblasting sand cost? The price of the abrasive depends on its type and quantity. Indicative prices are:

• Quartz sand – approx. €4.60–€9.20 per 25 kg.
• Fused alumina – from €22.99 per 25 kg.
• Glass microbeads – from €18.39 per 25 kg.
• Steel shot – from €27.59 per 25 kg.

Which sand for sandblasting with a gun?

Are you wondering which sand for sandblasting with a gun to choose to get good results? For sandblasting with a gun, fine abrasives work best, e.g. fused alumina or glass microbeads. They provide precision and minimize the risk of damaging the surface.

Can you sandblast with ordinary sand?

Ordinary construction sand is not suitable for sandblasting. It may contain contaminants and unsuitable grit size, which leads to nozzle clogging and an uneven sandblasting effect. It is definitely better to choose professional abrasives available in specialist stores.

Where to buy sandblasting sand?

It is worth buying abrasives from proven suppliers who offer high-quality materials with the right grit size.

Summary

What you should sandblast with depends on the material you want to process and the effect you want to achieve. Which sand for a sandblaster should you choose? If you want gentle processing, it is worth choosing glass microbeads. For aggressive cleaning, steel shot or fused alumina will work better. If you plan sandblasting in enclosed cabinets, it is also worth considering cyclone dust collectors for sandblasters, which improve efficiency and work safety. If you are looking for professional metalworking machines, check the Cormak offer, where you will find cabinet sandblasters and siphon sandblasters.

By properly selecting the grit size and the type of abrasive, you will achieve the best sandblasting results while minimizing material consumption and the risk of damaging the processed surface.