Difference Between Shot-Blasting and Sandblasting

With thousands of various surfaces worldwide, there couldn’t be just a one-way solution for all surface preparation. Techniques and methods will vary according to the ideal solution for the unique application. The most common abrasive blasting methods are Sand Blasting and Shot Blasting. While two terms appear similar, Shot Blasting and Sand Blasting are separate processes applied to different situations. Here, we’ll discuss some of the distinctions and differences between Sand Blasting and Shot Blasting, where it’s commonly used, and other factors to consider to know which method is best for you and your application.

What is Abrasive Blasting?

Before we get to the details, let’s first understand what Abrasive Blasting is and its purpose. Simply put, Abrasive Blasting is a treatment process wherein an abrasive medium is utilized through compressed air and drives into the surface. By doing this procedure, it efficiently strips any underlying material to prepare the surface for coating. Abrasive Blasting is commonly used for various applications, such as surface preparation, clearing rust, glass etching, mold removal, etc. Aside from technique, the abrasive medium will also vary depending on your intended application. 

Difference between Sand Blasting and Shot Blasting

Since both methods are under Abrasive Blasting, the best way to differentiate the two is through the medium used and their blasting technique. Shot Blasting almost exclusively uses abrasives such as aluminum oxide and carbon grit. On the other hand, Sand Blasting usually uses milder abrasives such as organic media, silica sand, or glass. However, most people no longer use sand or abrasives due to concerns about silicosis and how it could potentially harm respiratory health. Another distinction between the two is the blasting technique. Sand Blasting utilizes compressed air to propel the abrasive media onto the surface. On the other hand, Shot Blasting employs centrifugal force from a mechanical device to drive blasting media onto the target surface. None of the two is better than the other. Depending on the intended application, it will always boil down to what surface material you are working on and choosing depending on the intended application. 

Choosing Between Sand Blasting and Shot Blasting

As mentioned earlier, shot blasting is ideal for harder surfaces as it propels steel abrasives under higher velocity compared to sandblasting. Sandblasting is a much more versatile choice for surface preparation as it can cover a wide variety of surface materials such as plastic, aluminum, wood, stone, glass, or other types of machinery.

Final Thoughts.

Both Shot Blasting and Sandblasting deserve their spot in abrasive blasting methods and are both proven to be effective surface preparation before painting. Understanding the similarities and distinctions between the two lets you gauge the better or ideal method to use in varied situations. That way, you or your company will be able to get the job done correctly and use each technique properly.

Whether you’re looking for sandblast equipments or prefer shot blasting, you can easily find everything you’ll ever need here at Redline Stands. Visit us and browse our available selections online today!

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