OT: Blast Cabinet/Bench Idea... video rendering within., suggestions or ideas welcome Options

[snflupigus]

blastcabinet avi

I would probably build the base out of 2x4 and the top would be like 1 inch mdf. the frame for the blast cabinet itself would probably be 1" steel screwed into the top/bench 1" mdf... I was going to use a piano hinge for the pivot but i think 2 large bolts on each edge of the frame in back would be stronger.

for the catch i will have to figure out some heavy duty rubber or something to fall into my little carry around sand blaster from sears that way its a continuous feed of sand.

it would be side load with both sides hinged.

when opened there will be lock pins through the side frame to the front of the work area base.

i think i can order just the gloves from a company i found online.

maybe some gas struts to help open it too.

i dont know how much dust is generated as ive never used a sand blast cabinet before.. should i look at plumbing in a dust catcher?

I just cant see myself spending 300 for a metal one from harbor frieght but i want one big enough to do things like sway bars and wheels. BUT i dont want to loose a whole section of garage to have one.

thanks.

[Joe Owensby]

For smaller items, I have made a blasting cabinet from a large cardboard box. It is about 3 feet square. I have it so it folds down when not in use. I take it outside and place it on sawhorses. I have plastic sheet for the top and front window. I have a cheap Sears sandblasting unit that has a plastic hopper and a nozzle. The entire deal took about 1/2 hour to make.

I just used it to clean all my engine tin. Typically got one piece clean, and then had to use a small dust pan to transfer the sand back from the box to the plastic hopper. I don't have much extra space in my garage. so I didn't want to buy a more permanent unit. I don't have a vacuum vent, so some sand gets outside the box, but surprisingly little. I have two holes about 5 inches diameter that I put my hands through. Just use cloth gloves, a good dust mask ( I have a Hobby air full face mask), and a face shield to catch any dust that comes through. I use media that does not have silica. If you use any of the blasting media that has silica, you need a very good dust collecting system, or good breathing apparatus. I would imagine that the old paint also has lead in it, and would not be good to inhale. The set up I have is only for use outside. Joe