The operation of pneumatic devices provides for interfacing with additional technical equipment. The function of the power activator is performed by the compressor unit, due to which the jet is supplied. There is a wide range of pneumatic equipment, and for each device it is assumed the choice of special equipment. From this point of view, the compressor for sandblasting refers to standard solutions designed for domestic or semi-professional use. Although the device performs very important tasks, to ensure its function requires the average performance of an auxiliary installation - usually an air type.
Sandblasting technology
The essence of this operation is to spray a mixture containing air and abrasive elements. Almost all pneumatic pistols work on the same principle, only their tasks can be different. For example, a fairly widespread group of inflatable tools that allow you to inflate tires, mattresses, boats, etc. In turn, sandblasting is a subclass of “blowing” operations, the task of which is to displace dirt and other extraneous elements and masses due to force air flow. At the same time, a higher abrasive effect is noted in the sandblast, which is due to the content of small particles in the air stream.
Use sandblasting to ensure the grinding effect. This is not just cleaning the surface and removing dirt, but a complete update of the external structure of the material, which allows the implementation of a pneumatic apparatus. The compressor provides sufficient power to remove traces of rust, coatings, mold and other unwanted deposits.
Sandblast and compressor interaction
The quality of the operation depends on how correctly the model of the compressor unit for the sandblasting tool is selected. In addition, it is important to take into account the features of pairing two working components already in the process of performing the procedure. In particular, the compressor for sandblasting must be removed from the immediate place of work by at least 3 meters. If it comes to applying coatings, then you can observe this distance “by eye”, based on specific working conditions. However, spraying abrasives poses a serious danger to both the operator and other objects that are in the zone of functional coverage of the sandblast.
You should also responsibly approach the connection of the two units. For this, manufacturers complete the equipment with special hoses, fasteners and couplings.
Types of compressor equipment
There are several varieties of compressors, each of which theoretically can provide the function of a pneumatic tool. However, not every bundle will guarantee optimal performance and savings in energy consumption. Most often, air models are used to maintain the operation of pneumatic devices. They rationally consume electricity, while giving out the necessary power reserve. Such installations are usually used in auto repair shops. An air compressor for sandblasting and for domestic needs will find its application if, for example, it is necessary to clean individual sections of the facade or update garden equipment.
Pneumatic equipment is also supplemented by screw units for air supply, but these are already options for more complex tasks. In general, belt, screw and piston models are oriented to operation in industrial conditions and are rarely used in combination with compact pneumatics.
Key compressor specifications
The compressor is characterized by such indicators as power, performance and receiver volume. The first two parameters are interconnected, so they should be considered together. Small installations with a capacity of 1.5 kW are able to provide performance in the range of 50-100 liters per minute. This is the minimum level of power potential that a modern compressor for sandblasting has. Characteristics of more solid units suggest a volume in the range of 2-5 thousand liters.
As for the receiver, it is rarely present in the configuration of air compressors, and in equipping screw and piston models can hold about 200-300 liters. The presence of a receiver in the compressor for sandblasting is considered by many to be unnecessary, but such equipment is also found. In such cases, the damper volume varies from 40 to 100 liters.
Pressure indicators
Still, one of the most important operating indicators of the compressor is the pressure level. As such, this value does not affect either the productivity or the volume of the supplied jet. Pressure acts as a kind of regulator that converts power to the required flow rate. It should be borne in mind that the compressor for sandblasting must have a pressure corresponding to the tool being serviced. That is, if the maximum permissible value for the gun is 7 bar, then it is unacceptable for him to use a compressor of 10 bar. Working in this mode can physically break the sandblasting apparatus.
The best option is to purchase a compressor with the ability to adjust operating parameters. Such an option makes the equipment universal, as it can be used for tools with different operational indicators.
Compressor Maintenance
The main task of the user during the operation of the compressor is to regularly change lubricants and monitor the reliability of the connection of parts. Depending on the intensity of use of the unit, the intervals between preventive measures can be weeks or months. By the way, an oil change should be made every 300 hours of direct operation. Some models are sensitive to filter sponges.
Also, sandblasting can adversely affect the attachment of covers and receivers, while contaminating the compressor cavities. Therefore, along with the oil change, regular cleaning of the internal parts of the equipment should be carried out, eliminating it from the presence of condensate.
Operation Nuances
Preparing the equipment for use precedes the workflow. First of all, it is necessary to install the unit on a stable and even surface. The compressor must stand up so that its rear ventilation grille does not have any immediate obstructions at a distance of 0.5 m. Compliance with this condition is required because the obstruction of the flow leads to overstrain of the engine. It is also necessary to provide devices that will physically protect the sandblast compressor installed for a long period of operation. Some manufacturers initially complete the equipment with metal cases, but this equipment makes the compressors heavier and makes it difficult to access their working elements.
Compressor manufacturers
Leading positions in the compressor segment are held by manufacturers Abac, Fubag and Polair. The disadvantage of these brands is their focus on the professional needs of customers. Therefore, a targeted choice of installation for a pneumatic unit should be made in the segment of such companies as Zubr, Interskol, Resanta, etc.
In the families of these manufacturers you can find a compressor for sandblasting for little money and with optimal performance. Another thing is that in the process of long-term operation it is necessary to prepare to maintain the working life of the elements of technology, otherwise it will not last long.
Conclusion
Compressor equipment is often more expensive than the tool that it serves. When deciding which compressor to choose for sandblasting, one should not ignore the possibility of expanding the scope of operation of the unit. A low-power household device will not be able to provide assistance in large-scale construction work, however, a semi-professional model with average power will perform not only maintenance of a pneumatic gun, but also other, more complex tasks. Sets of universal fittings for connection make it possible to connect compressor equipment to hand tools in the form of the same sandblast, and to stationary production equipment.