{"id":12334,"date":"2026-03-02T06:13:17","date_gmt":"2026-03-02T06:13:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/?p=12334"},"modified":"2026-03-02T07:18:33","modified_gmt":"2026-03-02T07:18:33","slug":"plastic-media-blasting-step-by-step-setup-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/es\/resource\/blog\/plastic-media-blasting-step-by-step-setup-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Plastic Media Blasting: Step-by-Step Setup Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<!-- ============================================================\n     CLUSTER ARTICLE #11 \u2014 WordPress Post Content\n     Title: Plastic Media Blasting: Step-by-Step Setup Guide\n     \u7c98\u8d34\u65b9\u5f0f\uff1aGutenberg\u300c\u81ea\u5b9a\u4e49 HTML\u300d\u5757 \u6216 \u7ecf\u5178\u7f16\u8f91\u5668\u300c\u6587\u672c\u300d\u6a21\u5f0f\n     ============================================================ -->\n\n<style>\n\/* \u2500\u2500 \u5de5\u4e1a\u6a59 \u00d7 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*\/\n.pm-faq-item{border-bottom:1px solid #f1f5f9;padding:18px 0}\n.pm-faq-item:last-child{border-bottom:none}\n.pm-faq-q{font-size:16px;font-weight:700;color:#111827;margin:0 0 8px}\n.pm-faq-a{font-size:15px;color:#4b5563;margin:0;line-height:1.7}\n\n\/* Cluster links *\/\n.pm-cluster-group{margin:0 0 24px}\n.pm-cluster-label{font-size:11px;font-weight:700;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:.12em;color:#94a3b8;margin:0 0 10px}\n.pm-cluster-group ul{list-style:none;padding:0;margin:0;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:4px}\n.pm-cluster-group ul li a{display:flex;align-items:center;gap:8px;color:#c2410c;text-decoration:none;font-size:14.5px;padding:8px 12px;border:1px solid #e2e8f0;border-radius:4px;background:#fafafa}\n.pm-cluster-group ul li a:hover{background:#fff7ed;border-color:#fed7aa}\n.pm-cluster-group ul li a::before{content:\"\u2192\";font-weight:700;flex-shrink:0}\n\n.pm-section-divider{border:none;border-top:1px solid #f1f5f9;margin:48px 0}\n\n@media(max-width:640px){\n  .pm-equipment-grid{grid-template-columns:1fr}\n  .pm-nozzle-grid{grid-template-columns:1fr}\n  .pm-ppe-grid{grid-template-columns:repeat(2,1fr)}\n  .pm-calc-grid{grid-template-columns:repeat(2,1fr)}\n}\n@media(max-width:420px){\n  .pm-param-grid{grid-template-columns:repeat(2,1fr)}\n  .pm-ppe-grid{grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr}\n}\n<\/style>\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     INTRO\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<h1>Plastic Media Blasting: Step-by-Step Setup Guide<\/h1>\n<p>Plastic media blasting delivers consistently excellent results when the equipment is set up correctly and the operator understands the process variables that govern it. It delivers frustrating, inconsistent, or damaging results when those same variables are ignored. The difference between a well-run plastic blast operation and a poorly-run one is not exotic equipment or expensive media \u2014 it is disciplined setup, calibrated parameters, and systematic process control applied from the first blast forward.<\/p>\n\n<p>This guide is a complete, practical setup reference for anyone starting, overhauling, or troubleshooting a plastic media blasting operation. It covers the entire process in sequence: selecting and sizing equipment, choosing media and verifying it, dialing in blast parameters, setting up for the specific substrate, running the first qualification blast, and maintaining consistent results in production. Whether you are setting up a cabinet-based restoration operation, a production blast room for automotive stripping, or an aerospace depaint facility, the underlying setup logic is the same \u2014 and this guide covers all of it.<\/p>\n\n<p>For media type selection before you begin setup, see: <a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/plastic-blast-media-types-compared-urea-vs-melamine-vs-acrylic\/\">Plastic Blast Media Types Compared: Urea vs Melamine vs Acrylic<\/a>.For a broader overview of the full plastic media category, see: <a href=\"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/resource\/blog\/what-is-plastic-media-the-complete-guide-to-types-uses-applications\/\">What Is Plastic Media? The Complete Guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     TABLE OF CONTENTS\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<nav class=\"pm-toc\" aria-label=\"Table of Contents\">\n  <p class=\"pm-toc-title\">\ud83d\udccb Table of Contents<\/p>\n  <ol>\n    <li><a href=\"#su-overview\">What You Need Before You Start<\/a><\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"#su-step1\">Step 1 \u2014 Select and Size Your Compressor<\/a><\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"#su-step2\">Step 2 \u2014 Choose and Install Your Blast Equipment<\/a><\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"#su-step3\">Step 3 \u2014 Select and Verify Your Media<\/a><\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"#su-step4\">Step 4 \u2014 Install and Size Your Nozzle<\/a><\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"#su-step5\">Step 5 \u2014 Set Up Dust Collection and Ventilation<\/a><\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"#su-step6\">Step 6 \u2014 PPE and Safety Setup<\/a><\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"#su-step7\">Step 7 \u2014 Part Preparation and Masking<\/a><\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"#su-step8\">Step 8 \u2014 Dial In Your Blast Parameters<\/a><\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"#su-step9\">Step 9 \u2014 Run the Qualification Blast<\/a><\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"#su-step10\">Step 10 \u2014 Post-Blast Procedures<\/a><\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"#su-reclaim\">Setting Up Media Reclaim<\/a><\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"#su-nozzle\">Nozzle Wear: Monitoring and Replacement<\/a><\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"#su-troubleshoot\">Troubleshooting Setup Problems<\/a><\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"#su-checklist\">Master Setup Checklist<\/a><\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"#su-faq\">Preguntas frecuentes<\/a><\/li>\n    <li><a href=\"#su-related\">Related Guides<\/a><\/li>\n  <\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     OVERVIEW \u2014 WHAT YOU NEED\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<h2 id=\"su-overview\">What You Need Before You Start<\/h2>\n\n<p>Before any equipment arrives on site, clarify four things that determine every downstream setup decision:<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"pm-equipment-grid\">\n  <div class=\"pm-equip-col\">\n    <h4>\ud83c\udfaf Define Your Substrate and Objective<\/h4>\n    <ul>\n      <li><strong>What material are you blasting?<\/strong> Steel, aluminum, composite, mold tool \u2014 each has different media and pressure requirements<\/li>\n      <li><strong>What are you removing?<\/strong> Paint, coating, rust, flash, contamination \u2014 determines media aggressiveness<\/li>\n      <li><strong>What must the surface look like after?<\/strong> Bare metal, specific Ra, retained surface finish \u2014 determines media mesh and process control requirements<\/li>\n      <li><strong>Will parts go directly to coating, plating, or assembly?<\/strong> Determines how critical surface cleanliness and contamination control must be<\/li>\n    <\/ul>\n  <\/div>\n  <div class=\"pm-equip-col\">\n    <h4>\ud83d\udcd0 Define Your Scale and Throughput<\/h4>\n    <ul>\n      <li><strong>Part size:<\/strong> Determines whether you need a blast cabinet, blast room, or portable equipment<\/li>\n      <li><strong>Parts per day:<\/strong> Determines compressor sizing and whether media reclaim is economically justified<\/li>\n      <li><strong>Batch vs. continuous:<\/strong> Batch operations (load, blast, unload) vs. continuous-feed setups have different equipment implications<\/li>\n      <li><strong>Indoor vs. outdoor:<\/strong> Outdoor blasting has regulatory, wind, and containment considerations that indoor setups avoid<\/li>\n    <\/ul>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"pm-callout\">\n  <strong>The single most common setup mistake:<\/strong> Selecting and purchasing a blast cabinet or blast pot before calculating the compressor CFM requirement \u2014 then discovering the available compressor is grossly underpowered for the nozzle size chosen. Size the compressor first, then select the blast equipment to match. The compressor is the foundation that all other equipment decisions build on.\n<\/div>\n\n<hr class=\"pm-section-divider\">\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     STEP 1 \u2014 COMPRESSOR\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<div class=\"pm-step-block\" id=\"su-step1\">\n  <div class=\"pm-step-header\">\n    <div class=\"pm-step-num\">1<\/div>\n    <div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-title\">Select and Size Your Compressor<\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-subtitle\">The most critical equipment decision in the entire setup<\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n  <div class=\"pm-step-body\">\n    <p>The compressor must deliver adequate CFM (cubic feet per minute) of air at the target nozzle pressure \u2014 continuously, not just at startup. This is the constraint that most operators underestimate. Compressor specifications list <em>peak<\/em> o <em>displacement<\/em> CFM, not sustained delivery at operating pressure. The number that matters for blast operations is FAD (Free Air Delivery) at the target pressure \u2014 often 30\u201350% lower than the rated peak CFM.<\/p>\n\n    <h4>CFM Requirements by Nozzle Size<\/h4>\n    <p>These are the sustained CFM requirements at nozzle inlet \u2014 not at the compressor outlet. Account for 10\u201315% pressure drop across 50 feet of hose at blast flow rates:<\/p>\n\n    <div class=\"pm-calc-grid\">\n      <div class=\"pm-calc-card\">\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-nozzle\">3\/16\u2033 Nozzle<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-cfm\">25\u201335<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-unit\">CFM<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-psi\">at 40 PSI<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-calc-card\">\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-nozzle\">1\/4\u2033 Nozzle<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-cfm\">45\u201360<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-unit\">CFM<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-psi\">at 40 PSI<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-calc-card\">\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-nozzle\">5\/16\u2033 Nozzle<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-cfm\">70\u201390<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-unit\">CFM<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-psi\">at 40 PSI<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-calc-card\">\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-nozzle\">3\/8\u2033 Nozzle<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-cfm\">110\u2013140<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-unit\">CFM<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-psi\">at 40 PSI<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-calc-card\">\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-nozzle\">1\/2\u2033 Nozzle<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-cfm\">190\u2013220<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-unit\">CFM<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-psi\">at 40 PSI<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-calc-card\">\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-nozzle\">5\/8\u2033 Nozzle<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-cfm\">300\u2013350<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-unit\">CFM<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-calc-psi\">at 40 PSI<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <h4>Compressor Type by Application<\/h4>\n    <div class=\"pm-table-wrap\">\n      <table>\n        <thead>\n          <tr><th>Application Scale<\/th><th>Nozzle Size<\/th><th>Recommended Compressor<\/th><th>HP Range<\/th><\/tr>\n        <\/thead>\n        <tbody>\n          <tr><td>Cabinet blasting, small parts, mold cleaning<\/td><td>3\/16\u2033\u20131\/4\u2033<\/td><td>Reciprocating piston, single or two-stage<\/td><td>5\u201310 HP<\/td><\/tr>\n          <tr><td>Automotive panel stripping, medium cabinets<\/td><td>1\/4\u2033\u20135\/16\u2033<\/td><td>Rotary screw, continuous duty<\/td><td>10\u201320 HP<\/td><\/tr>\n          <tr><td>Full-vehicle strip, small blast rooms<\/td><td>5\/16\u2033\u20133\/8\u2033<\/td><td>Rotary screw, industrial<\/td><td>25\u201340 HP<\/td><\/tr>\n          <tr><td>Production blast rooms, aerospace depaint<\/td><td>3\/8\u2033\u20131\/2\u2033<\/td><td>Rotary screw, industrial; or towable diesel<\/td><td>50\u2013100 HP<\/td><\/tr>\n          <tr><td>Large-scale industrial \/ depot operations<\/td><td>1\/2\u2033\u20135\/8\u2033<\/td><td>Multiple compressors or large central plant<\/td><td>100+ HP<\/td><\/tr>\n        <\/tbody>\n      <\/table>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <h4>Air Quality Requirements<\/h4>\n    <p>Plastic media blasting requires dry, clean air. Moisture in the air supply causes media clumping, erratic blast flow, and \u2014 critically \u2014 moisture contamination of the blasted substrate before coating. Install an aftercooler, a refrigerated air dryer, and a coalescing filter downstream of the compressor. For large operations, a desiccant dryer downstream of the refrigerated dryer achieves dew points below 40\u00b0F at the nozzle, eliminating moisture-related process failures. Check the filter\/separator bowl daily; drain if accumulated liquid is present.<\/p>\n\n    <div class=\"pm-step-tip\">For production operations, size your compressor to deliver 125% of the calculated nozzle CFM requirement. This 25% margin accommodates nozzle wear (worn nozzles need more CFM at the same pressure), hose pressure drop variation, and the ability to run a second nozzle for increased throughput without a compressor upgrade.<\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"pm-step-warn\">Never use a standard shop compressor (5 HP \/ 20\u201330 CFM) with a 3\/8-inch nozzle. At 40 PSI, a 3\/8-inch nozzle requires 110\u2013140 CFM sustained \u2014 5\u20137\u00d7 more than a standard shop compressor delivers. The result is rapid pressure drop after triggering the gun, erratic blast flow, and poor surface results. The compressor cycles constantly trying to recover, shortening its service life dramatically.<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     STEP 2 \u2014 BLAST EQUIPMENT\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<div class=\"pm-step-block\" id=\"su-step2\">\n  <div class=\"pm-step-header\">\n    <div class=\"pm-step-num\">2<\/div>\n    <div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-title\">Choose and Install Your Blast Equipment<\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-subtitle\">Cabinet, blast pot, or blast room \u2014 matching scale to application<\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n  <div class=\"pm-step-body\">\n    <h4>Blast Cabinet<\/h4>\n    <p>Blast cabinets are self-contained enclosures with a window, gloves, internal lighting, and an integral media collection hopper. They are ideal for small-to-medium parts that fit through the cabinet door \u2014 electronics deflashing, mold cleaning, small automotive components, prototype parts finishing. Cabinets with suction-feed systems are suitable for light plastic media at low pressures. Pressure-pot-fed cabinets provide higher blast energy and are better suited for coating removal applications. When selecting a cabinet for plastic media, verify that the dust collector is sized for the finer particle density of plastic media dust (a collector rated for sand will typically suffice, but confirm the filter micron rating \u2014 5-micron absolute minimum for plastic media dust).<\/p>\n\n    <h4>Pressure Blast Pot<\/h4>\n    <p>A pressure blast pot is a sealed pressure vessel that holds blast media and pressurizes it to the operating pressure, feeding media and air to the blast nozzle through a single hose. This is the most efficient blast delivery system and the standard for all serious plastic media applications \u2014 automotive stripping, aerospace depainting, mold cleaning, industrial applications. Pots range from small portable 1.5-cubic-foot units to large 6-cubic-foot production pots mounted on wheeled frames. Key installation steps:<\/p>\n    <ul>\n      <li>Position the pot on a level surface within the blast area \u2014 pot must be upright to prevent media bridging<\/li>\n      <li>Connect the air inlet to the compressor with minimum 3\/4-inch ID hose; use 1-inch ID for runs over 50 feet<\/li>\n      <li>Set the inlet regulator to 10\u201315 PSI above target nozzle pressure to provide headroom for pressure drop across the hose and metering valve<\/li>\n      <li>Install an inline moisture separator between the compressor and the pot inlet<\/li>\n      <li>Test the remote deadman control (the safety valve that stops blast when the operator releases the handle) before first use \u2014 this is a life-safety device<\/li>\n    <\/ul>\n\n    <h4>Blast Room<\/h4>\n    <p>A blast room is an enclosed room-sized space designed for blasting large parts or assembled vehicles. Walls and ceiling are lined with rubber or polyurethane panels to absorb blast energy and protect the structure. The floor has a recovery system (typically a reclining floor with auger or pneumatic conveyor) to collect spent media and debris for reclaim or disposal. Blast rooms must have designed ventilation \u2014 typically 60\u2013100 air changes per hour \u2014 to maintain operator visibility and OSHA dust exposure compliance. For plastic media blast rooms, the ventilation must handle the finer, lighter plastic media dust that stays airborne longer than mineral abrasive dust.<\/p>\n\n    <div class=\"pm-step-tip\">For a new blast room installation, specify the ventilation system for the dust density of plastic media specifically \u2014 not for sand or mineral abrasive. Plastic media dust has a lower settling velocity and requires higher air velocity to capture effectively. Request filter media calculations from the ventilation system manufacturer using plastic media dust particle size distribution (typically 90% passing 50 microns after fracture in service).<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     STEP 3 \u2014 MEDIA SELECTION AND VERIFICATION\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<div class=\"pm-step-block\" id=\"su-step3\">\n  <div class=\"pm-step-header\">\n    <div class=\"pm-step-num\">3<\/div>\n    <div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-title\">Select and Verify Your Media<\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-subtitle\">Media type, mesh size, and incoming lot verification<\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n  <div class=\"pm-step-body\">\n    <h4>Media Type Quick Reference<\/h4>\n    <div class=\"pm-table-wrap\">\n      <table>\n        <thead>\n          <tr><th>Tipo de medio<\/th><th>Mohs<\/th><th>Best For<\/th><th>Avoid On<\/th><\/tr>\n        <\/thead>\n        <tbody>\n          <tr><td>Type II Urea Formaldehyde<\/td><td>~3.5<\/td><td>Aluminum aircraft structure, automotive steel panels, general coating removal \u2014 the most-used type<\/td><td>CFRP composites, optical mold cavities, electroless nickel plating<\/td><\/tr>\n          <tr><td>Type III Melamine Formaldehyde<\/td><td>~4.0<\/td><td>Harder coatings, rubberized underseal removal, titanium, steel chassis<\/td><td>Aluminum aircraft skin at structural pressure limits, soft mold materials<\/td><\/tr>\n          <tr><td>Type V Acrylic (PMMA)<\/td><td>~3.0<\/td><td>CFRP composites, polished mold cavities, electronics deflashing, anodized aluminum, beryllium copper<\/td><td>Applications requiring fast strip rate on hard coatings<\/td><\/tr>\n        <\/tbody>\n      <\/table>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <h4>Mesh Size Selection<\/h4>\n    <p>Mesh size is the particle size specification, expressed as the mesh screen count that the particles pass through or are retained on. Lower mesh numbers = larger particles = more aggressive cutting action and faster strip rate. Higher mesh numbers = smaller, finer particles = gentler action, better surface finish, but slower strip rate. Select mesh based on the coating thickness being removed and the surface finish required after blasting:<\/p>\n    <div class=\"pm-table-wrap\">\n      <table>\n        <thead>\n          <tr><th>Aplicaci\u00f3n<\/th><th>Mesh Size<\/th><th>Raz\u00f3n<\/th><\/tr>\n        <\/thead>\n        <tbody>\n          <tr><td>Heavy coating removal, thick paint, underseal<\/td><td>Mesh 16\u201320<\/td><td>Larger particles carry more impact energy per hit; faster removal of thick, tenacious coatings<\/td><\/tr>\n          <tr><td>Standard automotive paint strip (3\u20138 mil total)<\/td><td>Mesh 20\u201330<\/td><td>Balanced strip rate and surface finish; most common for general automotive and aerospace depaint<\/td><\/tr>\n          <tr><td>Aerospace aluminum, sensitive substrates<\/td><td>Mesh 30\u201340<\/td><td>Finer particle = lower impact energy per hit = better protection for thin aluminum skins<\/td><\/tr>\n          <tr><td>Mold cleaning, pre-anodize finishing<\/td><td>Mesh 50\u201360<\/td><td>Very gentle action; surface finish preservation priority over strip rate<\/td><\/tr>\n          <tr><td>Electronics deflashing, optical surfaces<\/td><td>Mesh 60\u201380<\/td><td>Finest available; minimum possible impact energy; used where substrate damage tolerance is essentially zero<\/td><\/tr>\n        <\/tbody>\n      <\/table>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <h4>Incoming Lot Verification<\/h4>\n    <p>Before loading any media into your blast pot, perform three quick verification checks on the incoming lot:<\/p>\n    <ul>\n      <li><strong>Visual check:<\/strong> Media should be free-flowing with no clumping. Clumped or caked media indicates moisture absorption during storage \u2014 do not use until dried at 100\u2013120\u00b0F for 2\u20134 hours and re-tested for flow<\/li>\n      <li><strong>Moisture test:<\/strong> Take a small handful and squeeze firmly. If it compacts and holds shape when the hand opens, moisture content is too high. Dry, in-spec media should flow freely from the open hand<\/li>\n      <li><strong>Certificate of Conformance:<\/strong> For aerospace, defense, and other regulated applications, verify the lot CoC references each required MIL-P-85891A test parameter with actual measured values. Retain with your work order records<\/li>\n    <\/ul>\n\n    <div class=\"pm-step-warn\">Never mix media types or mesh sizes in the blast pot. Mixed media produces unpredictable blast characteristics \u2014 the coarser fraction dominates strip rate while the finer fraction affects surface finish, creating a parameter that cannot be reliably characterized or controlled. If you need to transition from one media type to another, empty and clean the pot completely before loading the new media.<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     STEP 4 \u2014 NOZZLE\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<div class=\"pm-step-block\" id=\"su-step4\">\n  <div class=\"pm-step-header\">\n    <div class=\"pm-step-num\">4<\/div>\n    <div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-title\">Install and Size Your Nozzle<\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-subtitle\">Nozzle bore, material, and pre-use inspection<\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n  <div class=\"pm-step-body\">\n    <h4>Nozzle Bore Selection<\/h4>\n    <p>The nozzle bore diameter determines the blast stream width and CFM requirement. For plastic media blasting, the most common nozzle sizes are 3\/16 inch to 1\/2 inch bore. Smaller bores provide more precise media placement for detail work (mold cleaning, electronics, aerospace spot repair). Larger bores provide higher throughput for large-area coating removal.<\/p>\n\n    <p>Nozzle geometry also matters: straight-bore nozzles provide the highest velocity and most focused stream, suitable for aggressive coating removal. Venturi nozzles \u2014 which flare from a constriction to a wider exit \u2014 draw in additional air at the flare exit, increasing media velocity beyond what the inlet pressure alone provides. Venturi nozzles increase strip rate 40\u201360% compared to straight-bore at the same inlet pressure and are standard for production blast work.<\/p>\n\n    <h4>Nozzle Material for Plastic Media<\/h4>\n    <p>Plastic media is significantly less abrasive to nozzle material than mineral abrasives. Standard boron carbide nozzles \u2014 which last 200\u2013300 hours with sand \u2014 can last 500\u20131,000 hours or more with plastic media. Tungsten carbide nozzles are also acceptable. Do not use ceramic or standard cast iron nozzles \u2014 the lower wear resistance produces faster bore growth, more frequent calibration drift, and higher replacement frequency than the cost savings justify.<\/p>\n\n    <h4>Pre-Use Nozzle Inspection<\/h4>\n    <p>Before each shift, inspect the nozzle bore with a nozzle wear gauge (a calibrated pin gauge sized to the maximum acceptable bore diameter). Record the measurement. A new 3\/8-inch nozzle measures exactly 0.375 inch \u2014 replace when bore reaches 0.4375 inch (1\/16-inch oversize). Worn nozzles are the single most common source of undetected parameter drift in blast operations:<\/p>\n\n    <div class=\"pm-nozzle-grid\">\n      <div class=\"pm-nozzle-card\">\n        <div class=\"pm-nozzle-head new\">\u2705 New \/ In-Spec<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-nozzle-body\">\n          <div class=\"pm-nozzle-size new\">Nominal<\/div>\n          <div class=\"pm-nozzle-desc\">Bore at or within 0.015\u2033 of new size. Stream focused, velocity at rated value, CFM consumption as calculated. Full blast effectiveness.<\/div>\n        <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-nozzle-card\">\n        <div class=\"pm-nozzle-head worn\">\u26a0\ufe0f Monitor Closely<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-nozzle-body\">\n          <div class=\"pm-nozzle-size worn\">+1\/32\u2033<\/div>\n          <div class=\"pm-nozzle-desc\">Bore 1\/32\u2033 oversize. CFM consumption elevated ~15%; velocity reduced; pattern slightly widened. Adjust pressure upward to compensate and schedule replacement soon.<\/div>\n        <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-nozzle-card\">\n        <div class=\"pm-nozzle-head replace\">\u274c Replace Now<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-nozzle-body\">\n          <div class=\"pm-nozzle-size replace\">+1\/16\u2033<\/div>\n          <div class=\"pm-nozzle-desc\">Bore 1\/16\u2033 oversize. Stream pattern severely degraded; velocity 20\u201330% below rated; strip rate dramatically reduced; raising pressure to compensate creates over-blast risk. Replace immediately.<\/div>\n        <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"pm-step-tip\">Keep a nozzle wear log with measured bore diameter, date, and cumulative blast hours. After tracking 3\u20135 nozzles on a specific application, you will know the wear rate for your media type and application \u2014 which allows proactive scheduling of nozzle replacement before performance degrades, rather than reactive replacement after discovering poor results.<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     STEP 5 \u2014 DUST COLLECTION\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<div class=\"pm-step-block\" id=\"su-step5\">\n  <div class=\"pm-step-header\">\n    <div class=\"pm-step-num\">5<\/div>\n    <div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-title\">Set Up Dust Collection and Ventilation<\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-subtitle\">Operator health, visibility, and regulatory compliance<\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n  <div class=\"pm-step-body\">\n    <p>Plastic media blasting generates two categories of airborne dust that require capture: fractured media particles (the fines produced as media pieces break apart during blast impact) and coating residue dust (paint, primer, and rust particles removed from the substrate). Both categories are respiratory hazards; coating residue may carry additional regulatory requirements depending on the coating chemistry (chromate primers, lead-based paint, isocyanate-containing topcoats).<\/p>\n\n    <h4>Dust Collector Sizing<\/h4>\n    <p>Size the dust collection system to maintain a minimum air velocity of 100 feet per minute at all capture points \u2014 enough to prevent dust from settling inside ductwork. For blast cabinets, the collector typically mounts to the cabinet&#8217;s integral exhaust port with a factory-specified CFM rating; verify it is appropriate for the media being used (some collectors specified for mineral abrasive are under-powered for plastic media&#8217;s finer dust). For blast rooms, the collector must process enough air to achieve 60\u2013100 room air changes per hour \u2014 calculate as room volume (cubic feet) \u00d7 60 to 100 \/ 60 = required CFM.<\/p>\n\n    <h4>Filter Selection<\/h4>\n    <p>For plastic media blast dust, specify cartridge filters rated at minimum 5 microns absolute, with MERV-14 or better for applications involving chromate primer or heavy metal coatings. Pulse-jet self-cleaning cartridge collectors are the most practical choice for production blast operations \u2014 they maintain consistent airflow without manual filter cleaning intervals. Replace filter elements when pressure differential across the filter exceeds the manufacturer&#8217;s maximum (typically 6\u20138 inches water column) \u2014 operating with a loaded filter both reduces airflow below the capture threshold and forces dust-laden air around the filter seals.<\/p>\n\n    <div class=\"pm-step-warn\">For blast operations on aircraft, vehicles, or structures coated with chromate primer (MIL-PRF-23377) or lead-containing paint, the dust collector exhaust must be HEPA-filtered or equivalent before discharge to atmosphere. The hexavalent chromium and lead in the stripped coating dust are federally regulated air pollutants. Operating without compliant filtration exposes both the operator and surrounding property to regulatory enforcement action.<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     STEP 6 \u2014 PPE\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<div class=\"pm-step-block\" id=\"su-step6\">\n  <div class=\"pm-step-header\">\n    <div class=\"pm-step-num\">6<\/div>\n    <div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-title\">PPE and Safety Setup<\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-subtitle\">Non-negotiable personal protection for every blast operation<\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n  <div class=\"pm-step-body\">\n    <p>Plastic media blast operations involve high-velocity particle streams, dust concentrations that can impair visibility in minutes, and potential exposure to the coating materials being removed. PPE is not optional \u2014 it is the last line of protection between the operator and the hazards inherent to the process.<\/p>\n\n    <div class=\"pm-ppe-grid\">\n      <div class=\"pm-ppe-card\">\n        <span class=\"pm-ppe-icon\">\ud83e\ude96<\/span>\n        <div class=\"pm-ppe-name\">Blast Hood<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-ppe-spec\">Full-coverage blast hood with polycarbonate lens and neck seal. Lens protector (sacrificial cover) required \u2014 replace when lens clarity compromises visibility<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-ppe-card\">\n        <span class=\"pm-ppe-icon\">\ud83d\udca8<\/span>\n        <div class=\"pm-ppe-name\">Supplied-Air Respirator<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-ppe-spec\">Grade D breathing air from a compressor with CO monitor. NIOSH-approved. Required for all blast room work and any application involving chromate or lead paint residue<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-ppe-card\">\n        <span class=\"pm-ppe-icon\">\ud83d\ude37<\/span>\n        <div class=\"pm-ppe-name\">P100 Half-Mask<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-ppe-spec\">NIOSH-approved P100 half-face respirator. Minimum acceptable for blast cabinet work and media loading. Inadequate for blast room \u2014 use supplied air instead<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-ppe-card\">\n        <span class=\"pm-ppe-icon\">\ud83e\udde4<\/span>\n        <div class=\"pm-ppe-name\">Blast Gloves<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-ppe-spec\">Heavy leather or blast-rated rubber gloves. Must extend past the wrist. Standard nitrile examination gloves provide zero protection against blast stream<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-ppe-card\">\n        <span class=\"pm-ppe-icon\">\ud83d\udc41\ufe0f<\/span>\n        <div class=\"pm-ppe-name\">Safety Glasses<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-ppe-spec\">ANSI Z87.1 rated, worn under the blast hood. Protects against ricochets during equipment inspection and setup before the hood is in place<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-ppe-card\">\n        <span class=\"pm-ppe-icon\">\ud83e\uddba<\/span>\n        <div class=\"pm-ppe-name\">Coveralls<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-ppe-spec\">Full-coverage disposable or fabric coveralls. Prevents skin contact with coating dust and media particles. Tyvek disposable suits for chromate or lead applications<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-ppe-card\">\n        <span class=\"pm-ppe-icon\">\ud83d\udc42<\/span>\n        <div class=\"pm-ppe-name\">Hearing Protection<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-ppe-spec\">NRR-25 or better plugs or muffs. Blast operations typically exceed 90 dB(A). Cumulative exposure without protection causes permanent hearing damage<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-ppe-card\">\n        <span class=\"pm-ppe-icon\">\ud83e\udd7e<\/span>\n        <div class=\"pm-ppe-name\">Safety Boots<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-ppe-spec\">Steel-toed boots. Protects against dropped blast pots, nozzle assemblies, and part handling. ASTM F2413 rated minimum<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"pm-step-warn\">The supplied-air respirator requirement is absolute for blast room operations. A standard dust mask or even a P100 half-face respirator is insufficient in a blast room environment where dust concentration can reach levels that saturate filter media within minutes. Grade D breathing air from a compressor equipped with a CO alarm and high-temperature shutoff is the only acceptable respiratory protection for enclosed blast room work.<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     STEP 7 \u2014 PART PREP AND MASKING\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<div class=\"pm-step-block\" id=\"su-step7\">\n  <div class=\"pm-step-header\">\n    <div class=\"pm-step-num\">7<\/div>\n    <div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-title\">Part Preparation and Masking<\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-subtitle\">Protect everything that should not be blasted before the gun starts<\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n  <div class=\"pm-step-body\">\n    <p>Masking is not a secondary concern \u2014 it is a primary quality control step. The blast stream reaches surfaces at 3\u20136 feet from the target area, and the damage it does to unprotected adjacent surfaces (glass etching, rubber erosion, sensor damage) cannot be undone. The five minutes spent masking correctly prevent hours of rework.<\/p>\n\n    <h4>Masking Materials by Surface Type<\/h4>\n    <div class=\"pm-table-wrap\">\n      <table>\n        <thead>\n          <tr><th>Surface to Protect<\/th><th>Masking Method<\/th><th>Notes<\/th><\/tr>\n        <\/thead>\n        <tbody>\n          <tr><td>Glass (windows, lenses)<\/td><td>3 layers heavy kraft paper + 18\u2033 rigid cardboard or plywood overlay<\/td><td>Masking tape alone is insufficient \u2014 blast will penetrate. Rigid backing essential. For blast rooms, use rubber sheet or polyurethane foam board over paper<\/td><\/tr>\n          <tr><td>Rubber seals and weatherstrip<\/td><td>Remove before blasting; if not removable, mask with dense foam + rigid backing<\/td><td>Blast embeds media in rubber. Once embedded, media particles cause slow deterioration of the seal over time. Removal is strongly preferred<\/td><\/tr>\n          <tr><td>Exposed sensors and electronics<\/td><td>Remove or cap with dedicated plugs; cover with rigid backing<\/td><td>Never rely on tape alone for electronic components. A single media particle in a sensor port can cause intermittent failures months after the blast operation<\/td><\/tr>\n          <tr><td>Painted surfaces adjacent to blast area<\/td><td>Paper + foam board; extend 12\u2033 beyond blast area perimeter<\/td><td>Overspray from plastic media at 40 PSI can etch and dull adjacent painted surfaces at 4\u20135 foot range<\/td><\/tr>\n          <tr><td>Chrome plating<\/td><td>Remove plated components or mask with rubber sheet + rigid backing<\/td><td>Plastic media will not remove hard chrome at standard blast parameters but will dull the surface; if chrome removal is not the intent, protect it<\/td><\/tr>\n          <tr><td>Threaded bores and ports<\/td><td>Install threaded plugs; cap with expanding foam backer rod<\/td><td>Media embedded in thread forms causes galling during reassembly. Plug every threaded feature before blast, without exception<\/td><\/tr>\n        <\/tbody>\n      <\/table>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"pm-step-tip\">For automotive applications, develop a standard masking kit specific to each vehicle platform you blast regularly \u2014 pre-cut paper and foam pieces sized to the window openings, pre-labeled plugs for each sensor and port type. A masking kit reduces setup time by 40\u201360% compared to cutting and fitting masking materials from scratch on each vehicle.<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     STEP 8 \u2014 DIAL IN PARAMETERS\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<div class=\"pm-step-block\" id=\"su-step8\">\n  <div class=\"pm-step-header\">\n    <div class=\"pm-step-num\">8<\/div>\n    <div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-title\">Dial In Your Blast Parameters<\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-subtitle\">Pressure, standoff, angle \u2014 the three variables that control everything<\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n  <div class=\"pm-step-body\">\n    <p>Three parameters govern blast effectiveness and substrate safety in plastic media blasting: nozzle pressure, standoff distance, and impingement angle. Every other variable \u2014 strip rate, surface profile, edge damage risk \u2014 is a function of these three. Set them correctly for your specific substrate, and everything else follows. Set them incorrectly, and no amount of technique compensates.<\/p>\n\n    <h4>Pressure: Measure at the Nozzle, Not the Regulator<\/h4>\n    <p>Install an inline gauge at the nozzle inlet \u2014 not at the blast pot regulator and not at the compressor. Pressure drop across the blast hose (from the pot to the nozzle) at high blast flow rates is typically 5\u201315 PSI depending on hose length, diameter, and flow rate. A regulator set to 45 PSI at the pot may deliver only 32 PSI at a nozzle 50 feet away \u2014 putting you 13 PSI below the intended operating parameter without any indication at the control point. Measure where it matters: at the nozzle inlet.<\/p>\n\n    <div class=\"pm-param-grid\">\n      <div class=\"pm-param-card\">\n        <div class=\"pm-param-value\">25\u201345<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-param-unit\">PSI<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-param-label\">Standard steel automotive panels (Type II, Mesh 20\u201330)<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-param-card\">\n        <div class=\"pm-param-value\">20\u201335<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-param-unit\">PSI<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-param-label\">Aluminum aircraft \/ vehicle structure (Type II, Mesh 30)<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-param-card\">\n        <div class=\"pm-param-value\">20\u201335<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-param-unit\">PSI<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-param-label\">CFRP composites (Type V Acrylic, Mesh 30\u201350)<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-param-card\">\n        <div class=\"pm-param-value\">45\u201360<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-param-unit\">PSI<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-param-label\">Chassis \/ heavy steel structure (Type II or III, Mesh 16\u201320)<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-param-card\">\n        <div class=\"pm-param-value\">12\u201325<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-param-unit\">PSI<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-param-label\">Mold cavities, polished tool steel (Type V, Mesh 50\u201380)<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-param-card\">\n        <div class=\"pm-param-value\">8\u201315<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-param-unit\">PSI<\/div>\n        <div class=\"pm-param-label\">Electronics deflashing, IC packages (Type V, Mesh 60\u201380)<\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <h4>Standoff Distance<\/h4>\n    <p>Standoff distance is the gap between the nozzle exit and the part surface. Increasing standoff reduces impact energy (the particle decelerates in air after leaving the nozzle) and widens the blast pattern. Decreasing standoff concentrates energy on a smaller area and increases strip rate \u2014 but at the risk of localized over-blasting if nozzle movement is not consistent. The practical standoff range for most plastic media applications is 6\u201312 inches:<\/p>\n    <ul>\n      <li><strong>6\u20138 inches:<\/strong> Maximum effectiveness for coating removal; requires consistent nozzle motion; suitable for experienced operators<\/li>\n      <li><strong>8\u201310 inches:<\/strong> Best balance of strip rate and substrate protection; default for most applications<\/li>\n      <li><strong>10\u201314 inches:<\/strong> Reduced strip rate but maximum substrate protection; use on thin aluminum, composite structures, and detail areas requiring lower impact energy<\/li>\n    <\/ul>\n\n    <h4>Impingement Angle<\/h4>\n    <p>The impingement angle is the angle between the blast stream centerline and the part surface. Ninety degrees (perpendicular) delivers maximum impact energy and fastest strip rate on flat surfaces. Angles below 90\u00b0 produce a tangential cutting action that is more effective on surfaces where the coating must be undercut from the edges \u2014 thick carbon deposits, heavily bonded primer \u2014 and reduces the risk of media embedment on soft substrates. For general coating removal on steel: 75\u201385\u00b0. For aluminum and composites: 65\u201380\u00b0. For mold cleaning and detail work: 60\u201375\u00b0.<\/p>\n\n    <div class=\"pm-step-tip\">The correct blast angle for parting lines, seams, and recessed areas is different from the main panel angle. Work these features at a shallower angle (40\u201360\u00b0) that allows the media stream to sweep along the feature rather than impact perpendicular to it \u2014 this undercuts residue from the sides more effectively than direct perpendicular impact.<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     STEP 9 \u2014 QUALIFICATION BLAST\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<div class=\"pm-step-block\" id=\"su-step9\">\n  <div class=\"pm-step-header\">\n    <div class=\"pm-step-num\">9<\/div>\n    <div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-title\">Run the Qualification Blast<\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-subtitle\">Verify parameters on a test area before committing to production parts<\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n  <div class=\"pm-step-body\">\n    <p>Before blasting any production part or primary structure, run a qualification blast on a representative test area. For automotive work, this is typically a small hidden panel section \u2014 an inner door area, the underside of a hood lip, or an inner wheel arch. For aerospace, it is a non-flight-critical area of the same substrate material. For mold cleaning, it is a non-cavity area on the back face of the mold.<\/p>\n\n    <h4>Qualification Procedure<\/h4>\n    <ul>\n      <li><strong>Blast a 4 \u00d7 4 inch test area<\/strong> at your target parameters for the same duration you expect to use on the production surface<\/li>\n      <li><strong>Inspect immediately<\/strong> under good raking light: is the coating removed completely? Is the substrate visible beneath with a consistent, matte, uniform appearance?<\/li>\n      <li><strong>Check for damage indicators:<\/strong> Warping (run your hand across the surface \u2014 any deflection indicates excessive blast energy), directional scoring, or discoloration of the substrate<\/li>\n      <li><strong>Measure surface profile<\/strong> with Testex Press-O-Film replica tape if your application has a profile specification. Compare to the specified range<\/li>\n      <li><strong>Adjust if needed:<\/strong> If coating is not fully removed at target parameters, increase pressure in 3 PSI increments \u2014 not 10 PSI jumps \u2014 and re-test. If substrate damage is visible, reduce pressure before proceeding to production<\/li>\n    <\/ul>\n\n    <h4>What a Good Qualification Result Looks Like<\/h4>\n    <p>A correctly qualified blast area on steel shows: completely removed coating revealing a clean, matte grey steel surface with a light, even texture and no directional grinding marks. The surface should have a chalky, slightly rough appearance \u2014 not shiny (which would indicate the coating was not fully removed) and not deeply scored (which would indicate excessive blast energy). On aluminum, the correctly blasted surface shows a uniform, slightly rough matte finish with no tool marks from the original machining, no streaks, and no shiny spots indicating missed coverage.<\/p>\n\n    <div class=\"pm-step-warn\">If the qualification blast produces surface warping on steel panels, stop immediately. Warping means blast energy is too high for the panel gauge \u2014 reduce pressure by 10 PSI and re-test. Never proceed to production with parameters that produce warping on the qualification test area. Warped panels in a restoration or collision repair context require metal straightening that costs far more than the time saved by skipping parameter qualification.<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     STEP 10 \u2014 POST-BLAST PROCEDURES\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<div class=\"pm-step-block\" id=\"su-step10\">\n  <div class=\"pm-step-header\">\n    <div class=\"pm-step-num\">10<\/div>\n    <div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-title\">Post-Blast Procedures<\/div>\n      <div class=\"pm-step-subtitle\">Everything that happens in the first four hours determines coating quality<\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n  <div class=\"pm-step-body\">\n    <p>The surface produced by plastic media blasting is chemically active bare metal \u2014 more reactive than an unmachined surface because the blast process has removed the natural oxide layer and created a fresh, high-energy surface. That reactivity is what makes blast-prepared surfaces bond so well to coatings \u2014 and also what makes them susceptible to rapid re-oxidation and flash rusting if not immediately protected. Post-blast procedures are not optional follow-up steps; they are integral parts of the process that determine whether the blast work produces the coating performance it was designed to enable.<\/p>\n\n    <h4>Immediate Post-Blast Sequence<\/h4>\n    <ul>\n      <li><strong>Compressed air blow-off:<\/strong> Use a clean, dry air blow gun at 80\u2013100 PSI to remove all media particles, coating debris, and dust from every surface. Work from the highest point downward, covering all features, pockets, and recesses. Any media particle left on the surface will be sealed under the coating and become a corrosion nucleus.<\/li>\n      <li><strong>Inspecci\u00f3n visual:<\/strong> Inspect the blown-off surface under strong raking light. Any residual coating shows as a gloss contrast against the matte blast surface \u2014 spot-treat remaining coating areas before the overall surface oxidizes.<\/li>\n      <li><strong>IPA wipe (optional but recommended):<\/strong> A light wipe with isopropyl alcohol on a lint-free cloth removes dust residue and any oil contamination from hands or tools. Do not use acetone, lacquer thinner, or MEK \u2014 these solvents are too aggressive and may re-deposit contamination from the cloth onto the bare surface.<\/li>\n      <li><strong>Apply primer within 4 hours (steel):<\/strong> For bare steel, apply the first coat of primer \u2014 typically 2K epoxy primer \u2014 within 4 hours of blast completion in normal shop conditions. In humidity above 70% RH or temperature above 80\u00b0F, reduce this window to 2 hours. Flash rust that appears on the surface before priming must be removed \u2014 it cannot be primed over \u2014 requiring a second blast cycle and resetting the clock.<\/li>\n      <li><strong>Apply primer within 2 hours (aluminum):<\/strong> Bare aluminum begins oxidizing immediately. For applications where the oxide layer thickness matters (anodizing, plating, precision coating), the window between blast completion and first surface treatment is shorter than for steel. Apply etch primer, conversion coating, or transfer to the anodize\/plate line within 2 hours.<\/li>\n    <\/ul>\n\n    <div class=\"pm-step-tip\">Plan your blast sessions so primer application immediately follows blast completion for each section \u2014 not so you complete all blasting and then prime the entire part. On a full vehicle, blast one section (door, quarter panel, hood), prime it, then move to the next section. This prevents the first-blasted areas from flashing before the last area is ready to prime.<\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     MEDIA RECLAIM SETUP\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<h2 id=\"su-reclaim\">Setting Up Media Reclaim<\/h2>\n\n<p>Media reclaim systems recover used plastic blast media, separate it from coating debris and broken media fines, and return usable media to the blast pot for reuse. For any operation consuming more than approximately 50 pounds of media per week, a reclaim system reduces effective media cost by 60\u201380% and is typically recovered in media savings within the first month of operation.<\/p>\n\n<p>The reclaim system operates in three stages: mechanical collection (floor sweep, auger conveyor, or vacuum recovery system moves used media from the blast floor to the reclaim unit), air wash separation (an upward air current at calibrated velocity removes lightweight coating dust and fines while allowing heavier, intact media particles to fall through to the clean media hopper), and screen classification (a vibrating screen removes oversize particles and confirms that remaining media is within the target mesh size range before returning it to the blast pot).<\/p>\n\n<p>The most common failure mode in media reclaim systems is the air wash calibration. Set too low, coating debris and broken media fines pass through to the clean media hopper \u2014 loading the blast pot with contaminated media that produces poor surface results and clogs nozzles. Set too high, intact usable media is carried over with the debris stream \u2014 reducing media recovery rate and increasing the volume of waste requiring disposal. Calibrate the air wash velocity for your specific media type and mesh size: the correct velocity is just above the terminal velocity of the intact media particles and just below the velocity that would carry over the coating debris. Most reclaim manufacturers provide calibration charts for their systems by media type \u2014 use them as the starting point and verify with a test run before production.<\/p>\n\n<hr class=\"pm-section-divider\">\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     NOZZLE WEAR MONITORING\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<h2 id=\"su-nozzle\">Nozzle Wear: Monitoring and Replacement Schedule<\/h2>\n\n<p>Nozzle wear is the parameter drift source that most operators discover too late. A worn nozzle operating at the &#8220;correct&#8221; compressor setting is actually delivering under-pressure, widened-pattern blast at the part surface \u2014 producing lower strip rates, requiring longer cycle times, and potentially producing an uneven surface profile. Because the operator sees the same gauge reading at the pot, there is no visible indication that anything has changed. Only nozzle bore measurement reveals the drift.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"pm-table-wrap\">\n  <table>\n    <thead>\n      <tr><th>Nozzle Bore (nominal)<\/th><th>Replace at (max bore)<\/th><th>Typical wear interval with plastic media<\/th><th>Action at replacement trigger<\/th><\/tr>\n    <\/thead>\n    <tbody>\n      <tr><td>3\/16\u2033 (0.1875\u2033)<\/td><td>0.250\u2033 (+1\/16\u2033 oversize)<\/td><td>300\u2013600 hours<\/td><td>Replace immediately; do not operate with over-worn nozzle<\/td><\/tr>\n      <tr><td>1\/4\u2033 (0.250\u2033)<\/td><td>0.3125\u2033 (+1\/16\u2033 oversize)<\/td><td>400\u2013700 hours<\/td><td>Replace immediately<\/td><\/tr>\n      <tr><td>5\/16\u2033 (0.3125\u2033)<\/td><td>0.375\u2033 (+1\/16\u2033 oversize)<\/td><td>400\u2013700 hours<\/td><td>Replace immediately<\/td><\/tr>\n      <tr><td>3\/8\u2033 (0.375\u2033)<\/td><td>0.4375\u2033 (+1\/16\u2033 oversize)<\/td><td>500\u2013900 hours<\/td><td>Replace immediately<\/td><\/tr>\n      <tr><td>1\/2\u2033 (0.500\u2033)<\/td><td>0.5625\u2033 (+1\/16\u2033 oversize)<\/td><td>500\u2013900 hours<\/td><td>Replace immediately<\/td><\/tr>\n    <\/tbody>\n  <\/table>\n<\/div>\n\n<hr class=\"pm-section-divider\">\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     TROUBLESHOOTING\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<h2 id=\"su-troubleshoot\">Troubleshooting Setup Problems<\/h2>\n\n<div class=\"pm-trouble\">\n  <h4>Media not flowing from pot \u2014 no blast output or erratic pulsing<\/h4>\n  <div class=\"pm-trouble-row\"><span class=\"tc\">Cause: Moisture-bridged media blocking metering valve; insufficient pot pressure; clogged metering orifice<\/span><\/div>\n  <p>First check: squeeze a handful of media from the pot hopper. If it clumps and holds shape, moisture contamination is the cause \u2014 empty the pot, dry the media at 100\u2013120\u00b0F, and refill with dried media. If media flows freely, check that the pot pressure regulator is set correctly (typically 10\u201315 PSI above target nozzle pressure). If pressure is correct, inspect and clean the media metering valve orifice \u2014 plastic media fines can pack into small orifice ports and restrict flow.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"pm-trouble\">\n  <h4>Pressure drops immediately when blast trigger is pulled \u2014 cannot maintain target PSI<\/h4>\n  <div class=\"pm-trouble-row\"><span class=\"tc\">Cause: Compressor undersized for nozzle CFM requirement<\/span><span class=\"tf\">Fix: Reduce nozzle size or upgrade compressor<\/span><\/div>\n  <p>This is the undersized compressor problem. Verify by checking the compressor&#8217;s rated FAD (free air delivery) at operating pressure against the nozzle CFM requirement table in Step 1. If the compressor FAD is less than 1.25\u00d7 the nozzle CFM requirement, the compressor is inadequate for the selected nozzle. Immediate solutions: reduce to a smaller nozzle bore, reduce operating pressure (if substrate allows), or rent a higher-capacity compressor. Long-term solution: upgrade to a properly sized rotary screw compressor.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"pm-trouble\">\n  <h4>Coating removing in patches \u2014 uneven coverage with bare and coated areas adjacent<\/h4>\n  <div class=\"pm-trouble-row\"><span class=\"tc\">Cause: Inconsistent nozzle travel speed; worn nozzle; media moisture; media bridging in metering valve<\/span><\/div>\n  <p>Uneven coverage is almost always an operator technique problem (inconsistent nozzle speed) or a media flow problem (intermittent bridging causing pulsed rather than continuous blast output). Practice maintaining consistent nozzle travel speed across the panel surface \u2014 use overlapping passes at a steady walking pace. If the uneven areas correspond to the blast rhythm (alternating stripped and unstripped bands), the media flow is pulsing \u2014 investigate metering valve and moisture content. If the uneven areas are random, the issue is operator technique.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"pm-trouble\">\n  <h4>Substrate warping visible after blasting \u2014 particularly on thin steel panels<\/h4>\n  <div class=\"pm-trouble-row\"><span class=\"tc\">Cause: Blast pressure too high for panel gauge; dwelling in one spot; nozzle too close<\/span><span class=\"tf\">Fix: Reduce pressure immediately; check nozzle standoff; never dwell<\/span><\/div>\n  <p>Panel warping from plastic media blasting should not occur at correctly qualified parameters. If warping appears, reduce pressure by 10 PSI immediately and do not proceed until you have re-qualified the lower pressure on the test area. Common mistakes that cause warping even at nominally correct parameters: standoff closer than 6 inches (increasing effective blast energy above the qualified level), dwelling at parting lines or body lines, and using parameters qualified for standard-gauge steel on thin-gauge panels (less than 20 gauge \/ 0.036 inch). Thin-gauge panels require a separate parameter qualification at the actual panel thickness.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"pm-trouble\">\n  <h4>Flash rust appearing on bare steel within minutes of blast completion<\/h4>\n  <div class=\"pm-trouble-row\"><span class=\"tc\">Cause: Relative humidity above 70%; steel surface temperature at or below dew point<\/span><span class=\"tf\">Fix: Control humidity; warm the substrate; prime immediately after each section<\/span><\/div>\n  <p>Flash rust appearing within minutes indicates that ambient humidity or substrate temperature conditions are outside the acceptable range for blast-and-prime operations. The correct response is environmental control first: dehumidify the blast area to below 65% RH and verify that the substrate temperature is at least 5\u00b0F above the current dew point before blasting. If environmental control is not possible, adjust the process: blast one small section at a time and apply a flash rust inhibitor or self-etching primer immediately after each section before moving to the next. Do not try to continue blasting while flash rust is appearing \u2014 each newly blasted section will rust before you can prime it.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<hr class=\"pm-section-divider\">\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     MASTER CHECKLIST\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<h2 id=\"su-checklist\">Master Setup Checklist<\/h2>\n\n<p>Use this checklist at the start of each new blast operation setup, and as a verification checklist at the start of each production shift for established operations:<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"pm-table-wrap\">\n  <table>\n    <thead>\n      <tr><th>Categor\u00eda<\/th><th>Check Item<\/th><th>Verified?<\/th><\/tr>\n    <\/thead>\n    <tbody>\n      <tr><td>Compressor<\/td><td>FAD rating confirmed adequate for nozzle size and operating pressure<\/td><td>\u2610<\/td><\/tr>\n      <tr><td>Compressor<\/td><td>Air dryer and coalescing filter installed and operational; bowl drained<\/td><td>\u2610<\/td><\/tr>\n      <tr><td>Blast equipment<\/td><td>Pot pressure-tested; deadman control functional; all connections leak-free<\/td><td>\u2610<\/td><\/tr>\n      <tr><td>Media<\/td><td>Correct type and mesh size loaded; lot CoC available; moisture check passed<\/td><td>\u2610<\/td><\/tr>\n      <tr><td>Boquilla<\/td><td>Bore measured and within specification; no chipping or cracking at nozzle exit<\/td><td>\u2610<\/td><\/tr>\n      <tr><td>Nozzle pressure<\/td><td>Inline gauge at nozzle confirmed; pressure measured at nozzle inlet (not regulator)<\/td><td>\u2610<\/td><\/tr>\n      <tr><td>Dust collection<\/td><td>Collector operational; filter pressure differential within limits; exhaust directed away from personnel<\/td><td>\u2610<\/td><\/tr>\n      <tr><td>PPE<\/td><td>All required PPE present, in good condition, and worn correctly before blast area entry<\/td><td>\u2610<\/td><\/tr>\n      <tr><td>Part preparation<\/td><td>All glass, rubber, sensors, threads, and adjacent surfaces masked or plugged<\/td><td>\u2610<\/td><\/tr>\n      <tr><td>Qualification blast<\/td><td>Test area blasted and inspected; no substrate damage; coating removed completely<\/td><td>\u2610<\/td><\/tr>\n      <tr><td>Surface profile<\/td><td>Profile measured (if specified) and within required range<\/td><td>\u2610<\/td><\/tr>\n      <tr><td>Post-blast window<\/td><td>Primer or surface treatment ready to apply within the applicable time window<\/td><td>\u2610<\/td><\/tr>\n      <tr><td>Environmental<\/td><td>Temperature above 50\u00b0F; RH below 70%; substrate temperature at least 5\u00b0F above dew point<\/td><td>\u2610<\/td><\/tr>\n    <\/tbody>\n  <\/table>\n<\/div>\n\n<hr class=\"pm-section-divider\">\n\n\n<!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\n     FAQ\n\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\n<h2 id=\"su-faq\">Preguntas frecuentes<\/h2>\n\n<div itemscope itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/FAQPage\">\n\n  <div class=\"pm-faq-item\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n    <p class=\"pm-faq-q\" itemprop=\"name\">Can I use a standard shop air compressor (5 HP \/ 60-gallon) for plastic media blasting?<\/p>\n    <div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n      <p class=\"pm-faq-a\" itemprop=\"text\">A standard 5 HP shop compressor delivers approximately 15\u201320 CFM at 90 PSI \u2014 sufficient for a 3\/16-inch nozzle at low blast pressures (20\u201325 PSI), but nothing larger. For cabinet blasting of small parts (electronics, small automotive components, mold cleaning) with a 3\/16-inch pencil nozzle, a 5 HP compressor is marginally adequate. For any application requiring a 1\/4-inch or larger nozzle \u2014 automotive panel stripping, full-vehicle blast work, aerospace depainting \u2014 a 5 HP shop compressor is grossly inadequate. It will not maintain pressure, will cycle constantly trying to recover, and will overheat and fail prematurely under sustained blast loads. For serious blast work, the minimum practical compressor is a 10\u201315 HP rotary screw unit with continuous duty rating. For full-vehicle stripping, 25\u201340 HP minimum.<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <div class=\"pm-faq-item\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n    <p class=\"pm-faq-q\" itemprop=\"name\">How do I know if my blast parameters are correct without sophisticated measurement equipment?<\/p>\n    <div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n      <p class=\"pm-faq-a\" itemprop=\"text\">Three field checks work well without lab equipment. First, the visual surface check: after blasting a test area, the surface should show uniform, consistent coverage with a matte, slightly chalky appearance \u2014 no shiny areas (indicates coating remaining), no deep grooves or directional scoring (indicates too-aggressive parameters), and no color variations (indicates uneven coverage). Second, the panel distortion check: run your open palm lightly across the blasted surface from 2\u20133 inches above, feeling for any waviness or high spots. A correctly blasted thin steel panel should be completely flat. Any detectable waviness means your parameters are too aggressive. Third, the white glove test: wipe the blasted surface with a white cotton rag. If it picks up any color beyond light grey dust, the coating was not fully removed in that area. Supplement these field checks with an inline nozzle pressure gauge (mandatory) and Testex Press-O-Film replica tape for surface profile measurement (inexpensive and available from most abrasive media suppliers) to get quantitative confirmation of your parameters.<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <div class=\"pm-faq-item\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n    <p class=\"pm-faq-q\" itemprop=\"name\">How often should I change the media in the blast pot during a production operation?<\/p>\n    <div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n      <p class=\"pm-faq-a\" itemprop=\"text\">In a production operation with media reclaim, you typically do not change the entire media charge on a scheduled interval \u2014 instead, you top up the reclaim system with fresh media to replace what is lost to attrition and disposal. The usable media fraction leaving the air wash separator is returned to the blast pot; the fine debris fraction is sent to waste. Monitor the effective mesh size of the reclaimed media by periodic sieve analysis \u2014 when a significant fraction has shifted to mesh sizes finer than the original specification (typically when 20% or more has shifted one mesh size finer), it is time to discard the current charge and reload with fresh media. Without reclaim (single-use media), the change frequency depends on throughput: typically after each vehicle in automotive strip work, or when strip rate visibly decreases in production operations. Never run media that you can see is producing inconsistent results \u2014 visual strip rate decline is a lagging indicator that the media has already degraded past its effective service range.<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <div class=\"pm-faq-item\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n    <p class=\"pm-faq-q\" itemprop=\"name\">What is the correct way to dispose of spent plastic blast media?<\/p>\n    <div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n      <p class=\"pm-faq-a\" itemprop=\"text\">Disposal classification of spent plastic blast media depends entirely on what coatings were removed during the blast operation. The media itself (plastic resin) is not inherently hazardous. However, the coating debris mixed into the spent media may be \u2014 specifically, if you blasted surfaces coated with chromate primers (MIL-PRF-23377), lead-containing paints (common in pre-1978 vehicles and some aerospace applications), or other heavy-metal-containing coatings. Spent media from these applications must be tested by TCLP (Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure) for the relevant heavy metals. If TCLP results exceed regulatory thresholds (5 mg\/L for lead, 5 mg\/L for chromium under RCRA), the waste is classified as hazardous and must be managed accordingly \u2014 licensed transporter, licensed disposal facility, and EPA Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest for each shipment. Spent media from applications involving only non-hazardous coatings (modern waterborne automotive paints, powder coats, non-chromate primers) is typically non-hazardous solid waste \u2014 but confirm with a TCLP test before making that determination for your specific application. Never assume spent media is non-hazardous without characterization testing if the coatings removed are unknown or legacy.<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <div class=\"pm-faq-item\" itemscope itemprop=\"mainEntity\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Question\">\n    <p class=\"pm-faq-q\" itemprop=\"name\">Can the same blast pot setup be used for both plastic media and other abrasives like sand or aluminum oxide?<\/p>\n    <div itemscope itemprop=\"acceptedAnswer\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Answer\">\n      <p class=\"pm-faq-a\" itemprop=\"text\">The same blast pot can physically hold and deliver different abrasive media types, but cross-contamination is a serious problem that makes shared use inadvisable for precision applications. Mineral abrasives (sand, aluminum oxide, glass bead) leave residual particles in the pot, hose, and nozzle after use. When the pot is subsequently loaded with plastic media for a substrate-sensitive application (aluminum aircraft structure, mold cleaning, electronics deflashing), those residual mineral particles \u2014 far harder than the plastic media \u2014 will be carried through the system and blasted onto the substrate, potentially causing exactly the substrate damage the plastic media was chosen to prevent. If you must use the same pot for multiple media types, perform a complete pot clean-out between media types: empty the pot entirely, flush with compressed air, inspect and wipe all internal surfaces, and verify the hose and nozzle are clear of residual abrasive before loading the new media. In aerospace and critical applications, dedicated pots for plastic media that have never been used with mineral abrasive are required by most quality systems.<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Plastic Media Blasting: Step-by-Step Setup Guide Plastic media blasting delivers  [&#8230;]<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":12354,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[62,177,138],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12334","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog","category-material","category-resource"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12334","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12334"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12334\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12405,"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12334\/revisions\/12405"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/12354"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12334"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12334"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hlh-js.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12334"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}