Abrasive blasting, sandblasting, bead blasting, and shot blasting—are they all the same?
The quick response is… yes! Since sand was the most popular blasting material for decades, everyone used the term “sandblasting.” However, today, with advancements in blasting technologies and increased awareness of health risks, silica sand is not recommended.
The simple idea to explain abrasive blasting is that it is when a combination of high-pressure compressed air and a fine or crushed abrasive material is forced out of a powered nozzle. The forceful contact of the abrasive particles effectively removes rust, paint, dirt, and other types of corrosion. There are many abrasive material options that are suitable based on certain requirements, constraints, and the type of substrate.