Media blasting is a powerful cleaning and surface preparation technique that uses pressurized air to propel abrasive media against a surface at high velocity. This forceful impact removes contaminants, rust, paint, coatings, and other substances, leaving a clean and textured finish.

The process is sometimes referred to as sandblasting, though silica sand is no longer used due to respiratory concerns.

The Media Blasting Process

The following components are essential in media blasting:

• Media: Various types of natural and organic abrasive material are used for blasting; each has specific properties and applications. Common materials include glass beads, ceramic grit, steel shot, aluminum oxide, garnets, corn cobs, walnut shells, and sodium bicarbonate.
• Blast pot: This pressurized container holds the media and dispenses it through a nozzle.
• Nozzle: The nozzle directs the media stream toward the surface with controlled pressure and direction.
• Compressor: Provides compressed air to propel the media at high velocity.

The first step in the media blasting process involves choosing the proper blasting material based on the surface material and desired level of removal. As a general rule of thumb, it’s best to start with a very fine media; if that doesn’t do the trick, you can always try a more aggressive medium. The operator directs the pressurized media stream toward the surface, removing the contaminants and coatings. Any residual media and dust are removed from the blasted area during cleanup.