sand blaster / bead blaster?

[Chevalier]

I saw a post from Fibregeek(I think?) saying that he uses a bead blaster on parts before he anodizes them to remove native oxide. I'm just wondering what kind of setup you have, do you have one in a pre-made cabinet or did you make your own? What size is your compressor? I am looking at one on e-bay(#2378236622) would this be suitable for doing small parts. I've never had one before so I am not sure if I should be using sand or beads, will that one on e-bay do both?

Thanks.
PS. I am looking at a small one so I can get it posted to Ireland!

[gouche]

thats only the kit, you'll need to buy a cabinet and compressor separate.

the size of the cabinet and compressor depends on how much you want to be blasting. i would reccomend something around 30ish gallons and 5 hp for the compressor if you're doign alot, otherwise i would go cheaper. the cabinet can be had pretty inexpensively from ebay for around 100 if you're not doing alot. but a nice big standup model is sure nice for the extra room inside.

[NeoMoses]

That blaster kit looks like it might work. You should definately build a cabinet around it unless you plan on using a completely enclosed helmet with supplied air. Silicosis is a very nasty condition to have!

Also, most sand blasters I've seen use a lot of air. a 3-5 HP compressor with about a 60 gallon tank is usually used, although this particular kit might need less. I didn't see any pressure/CFM ratings in the auction.

Glass beads (bead blasting) are not as aggressive as sand (sand blasting) and will leave a smoother finish. Sand can be purchased in varying sizes, thus allowing various finishes/roughness. Other media, such as corncob and walnut shells can be used for cleaning/polishing with little to no cutting action. Rouge impregnated walnut shells are also available, which will have a very fine cutting action.

Good luck, and be safe!