Sandblasters

[Sean O'Hare]

Okay I've been interested in getting a sandblaster for finishing work for some time now. I finally found a really good deal on a table top model which I purchased. Having a limited budget I bought it with the intention of buying a compressor at a later date.

My question is how big of a compressor will I need to run this thing?

The cabinet calls for 5-15CFM at 120psi. When I've been looking around I've found 7.6CFM @ 90psi, would this do okay or is it still too small?

Thanks,
Sean

 

[Mike Hull]

It would probably work. You need at least a 31/2 HP unit, with a minimum of a 20 gallon tank, to keep it from melting from overwork.
Another way to make it work better is to replace the nozzle in the handpiece with one that has a smaller opening. Say from 3/8" to 1/4", and get a ceramic nozzle if you can, they last way longer.

Get the biggest compressor you can afford, 5 HP +, with a 60 gallon + tank would be best. Get one with cast iron cylinders.