Steel structures are often used to build industrial plants. Metal is a material that is very strong, flexible, durable and easy to work with. It is also easy to assemble. However, the steel used to create such halls begins to wear out over time, and small micro-damage develops on its surface. For this reason, steel surfaces are subjected to a sandblasting process. What is the purpose of such an activity and how to perform it correctly? We answer.
What is sandblasting and why is it performed?
Sandblasting involves directing a stream of sand expelled under compressed air or dust pressure using a compressor, or pressure washer. Fine grains of abrasive material strike the surface of the steel structure. The abrasive striking the metal has an effect similar to that of a grinding wheel. However, sandblasting is more effective than grinding.
With sandblasting, the surface of the steel is smoothed and free of micro-damage. This activity additionally cleans it from rust and impurities. Sandblasting is very often a prelude to further maintenance of the steel structure, for example, its painting or galvanizing.
Sandblasting involves directing a stream of sand expelled under compressed air or dust pressure using a compressor, or pressure washer. Fine grains of abrasive material strike the surface of the steel structure. The abrasive striking the metal has an effect similar to that of a grinding wheel. However, sandblasting is more effective than grinding.
With sandblasting, the surface of the steel is smoothed and free of micro-damage. This activity additionally cleans it from rust and impurities. Sandblasting is very often a prelude to further maintenance of the steel structure, for example, its painting or galvanizing.
How to take care of safety during sandblasting?
How to sandblast steel? The process requires special safety measures, especially when using an abrasive such as quartz sand. The person who does the sandblasting should be equipped with protective clothing. In addition, the activity should be performed in a well-ventilated room with a supply of fresh air.
Neglecting safety can lead to the development of dangerous dust diseases, among others. The risk can be reduced by wet sandblasting. Another option is to use an abrasive that is safer than sand. Most quartz sand alternatives emit less dust and more efficiently sand subsequent components.
Types of abrasive for sandblasting
Sandblasting of metal is carried out in one of two ways, using different materials. The basic division distinguishes dry sandblasting, when the abrasive is pushed out by compressed air. The second type is wet sandblasting, which uses water flowing under high pressure.
The most popular abrasive is ordinary quartz sand. This is the most versatile material, but dangerous due to its high dustiness. This method should be done in a special chamber or in a protected space, such as a tent used for this purpose.
An alternative to dry grinding is glass microspheres or granules. This type of abrasive has less dust, making it safer to use. Expensive raw materials, such as ceramic microspheres, or very hard silicon carbide or electrocorundum, are also used for sandblasting.
Does the time of year affect the effectiveness of sandblasting?
Unlike painting, sandblasting does not have such strict weather requirements. We will effectively carry out sandblasting in hot weather, among other things. However, this does not mean that summer is the best time for this type of work. This is for several reasons.
First of all, sandblasting in summer does not make much sense if it is to prepare the surface for painting. Painting steel in the summer is not effective, as its surface is too hot to allow the formation of a tough, dense coating.
Secondly, sandblasting requires protective measures in the form of a suit. Being in such a suit in hot weather will limit concentration and motor efficiency. It is worth postponing the process to a cooler period for reasons of comfort and less physical exertion.
Tips – Sandblasting in the summer by yourself or with the help of professionals?
Sandblasting service for steel structures is available from RS-Mal. This company specializes in painting roofs, steel structures, creating waterproofing, or just sandblasting.
Using the services of RS-Mal we can count on full professionalism during the implementation of the work. They will be carried out by qualified professionals who know how to perform sandblasting in a way that is safe for the environment. This will comprehensively take care of the condition of the steel structure and prepare it for further maintenance work, such as painting. It is worth handing over this activity to professionals, ensuring accuracy and efficiency at every stage.
