Help buying a media-blaster Options

[Literati914]

First of all, budget.. I'm thinking a HF model.. but which one?

I've come to the conclusion that with two project cars, I've got too many large-ish items that'll need to be media blasted. So, I'm thinking about purchasing a blaster, instead of paying someone to do it. I already have a small blasting cabinet (that I hate), that I can deal with for small stuff.. but I have various wheels, frt and rear control arms, cross members, sheet-metal, etc..

I do have a 25gal 5hp (8.2@40 - 5.6@90) direct drive compressor AND a separate 25gal tank (That I used to know how to run in tandem w/the compr. - but need to relearn). I also have an old 6-man camping tent that I plan on using for blasting (may be able to re-use some media, besides keeping the crap contained in general).

Not trying to blast the body, only medium large stuff. Anyone used an economical unit that they can recommend?


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[mepstein]

Just bought a big blaster. Pressure fed and suction fed in the same unit. The air supply is really important. The spec on the blaster is usually the minimum needed.

Blasting inside a tent sounds miserable.

[vitamin914]

Just bought a big blaster. Pressure fed and suction fed in the same unit. The air supply is really important. The spec on the blaster is usually the minimum needed.

Blasting inside a tent sounds miserable.

A tent doesn't sound that bad...
My blasting experience (IMG:style_emoticons/default/ar15.gif) ... 50 years of soot build up on the bricks above the wood burning fireplace mantle. Rented a 5 hp gas powered compressor ran a hose from outside and used soda to blast the soot off the bricks and mortar. Cleaned up amazing without damaging the brickwork. Of course even with taping plastic curtains everywhere with drop sheets and an open front door 15 feet away I spent days vacuuming up the soda residue. The wife was not amused - somehow she was over looking how clean the bricks were - I don't understand why... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/confused24.gif)

If you do use soda for blasting, remember it is a one time use material- it cannot not be recycled like other abrasives. Once the crystals shatter on impact (which is what does the cleaning) the soda turns to flour and won't flow properly from the hopper again. A full face respirator is also a necessity if you are not in a cabinet.