I see that some users get by with a 6.5 SCFM compressor (30 Gal), but a 11 SCFM is required which is now a 220v compressor. Any experience with a smaller compressor and cleaning smaller pieces? I know on a smaller compressor it wouldn’t keep up, but how long do you think it takes to clean a small part, waiting for the compressor?
What do you consider smaller pieces and what prep work do you plan prior to blasting?
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Mainly prep for powder coating. I was thinking smaller 2x6, 4x4, or 6x8 pieces/sizes. Could probably go up to 12x12
Every part will be different depending on rust and type of finish. I can’t think of hardly ever something taking less than 10 mins. And 11 cfm sounds low to me. Unless the tip has a 1/8” hole in it.
I have 23 cfm and it will just about run continuously while blasting. But I think the tip on my gun is at least 3/16 if not a quarter inch.
And remember the tip opening always gets Bigger as is wears and will consume more air
If you are going to try to blast off the mill scale I wouldn’t attempt it.
I use vinegar to remove mill scale then make sure all the slag ( dross )is off. Small pieces that will fit in my cabinet I do blast just to etch. Pieces that don’t fit I use a flap disk or a sander to ruff the surface.
To be honest if you think your compressor is to small it definitely is. I always try to tell people look at the cfm requirements of you largest demanding tool and shoot for double if you can afford it you will be happier. You could possibly get by with it for a while. You don’t have to run a high psi just to etch metal. That would help you out. Keep in mind your compressor won’t last long under constant abuse.
I had a black max 60 gallon single stage compressor that I destroyed pushing it to hard sandblasting
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I have used this method as well with decent results.
I tried to use Muratic acid once, and it worked very fast, but the obnoxious fumes made me revert to vinegar.
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That is some nasty stuff. Citric acid works well also. I have a tendency to let parts soak for a few days to a week depending on work schedule. It seems to settle out of the water and form s nasty crust on the metal. Maybe I am mixing to strong so back to old faithful.
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