The same thing, or not quite?
In short: “sandblasting” is an older name for what we now call blasting. The underlying technology is the same — we use high-pressure air to propel media against the surface to remove dirt, rust or old paint.
The difference lies in the blasting media: in the past only sand was used (hence the name “sandblasting”), but today many different blasting media are available, so the correct technical term is blasting (or shot blasting / grit blasting).
Why do we no longer use sand?
Blasting with quartz sand poses a health hazard — inhalation of fine quartz particles can cause silicosis (a lung disease). For this reason dry blasting with quartz sand is strictly regulated in the European Union.
We use modern blasting media that are safer and more effective.
Types of blasting media
| Blasting medium | Characteristics | What’s it good for? |
|---|---|---|
| Steel shot | Hard, durable, reusable | Removing rust and scale from steel |
| Corundum | Very hard, sharp particles | Aggressive cleaning, rough surface |
| Glass grit | Medium hardness, gives a smooth surface | Finer cleaning, decorative finish |
| Glass beads | Soft, spherical particles | Fine polishing, does not scratch the surface |
The choice of blasting media depends on the material of the workpiece, the desired roughness, and the intended use. Unsuitable media or excessive pressure can cause deformation, especially on thin sheet metal.
When is blasting necessary?
- Rusty surfaces — powder coating does not adhere to rust
- Removing old paint — before a complete refinish
- Surface preparation before powder coating — powder coating adheres far better to a blasted surface
- Restoring alloy wheels — removing old brake dust, rust and paint
- Welded structures — removing post-weld slag and scale
Our blast cabin
The dimensions of the Pozsár Design Kft. blast cabin are: 10 metres long, 2.6 metres wide, 3 metres high. This allows us to handle large industrial structures, tanks and machines as well.
The blasting media we have available:
- Steel shot
- Corundum
- Glass grit
- Glass beads
Blasting and powder coating in one place
After blasting, the metal surface can flash-rust within hours. With us, the powder coating booth and oven are right next to the blast cabin, so blasted parts can go straight into coating — no transport, no waiting, no flash rust.
This is one of our biggest advantages: blasting and powder coating in one place, in a single facility.
Have a question? Call us: +36 20 455-25-44 or request a quote online.