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How to Tips on Auto Sandblasting

Sandblasting is a mechanical technique that is commonly used to remove rust and old paintwork from auto body parts. It is a more aggressive method than conventional sanding and allows for the removal of pitted rust as well as any corrosion that sits on the surface of a car. However, sandblasting can leave small indentations in metal. For this reason, the process should only be used on thick metals that will not warp or disintegrate easily.

Instructions

1

Remove all external fittings from the auto body parts and, wherever possible, remove panels from vehicles completely. Place the removed panels on a panel stand and score the existing paintwork lightly with a metal scraper. Put on a pair of protective gloves and apply a generous coating of water-washable paint stripper to the paintwork, leaving it on for 15 minutes. Use the metal scraper to remove paint from the surface and rinse the panel with warm water to kill off the active ingredient in the stripper. Dry the panel thoroughly with workshop wipes.

2

Use a P80 grit sanding disc on an orbital sander to remove any remaining traces of paint or primer. Ensure the entire panel is sanded to remove all surface rust and clean it thoroughly before inspecting. Any remaining instances of rust should now be clearly visible and these will be sandblasted to ensure adequate removal.

3

Place the auto body panel in the sandblasting booth on a sturdy stand. Plug the sandblasting machine into a main outlet and fit an air-line over the appropriate coupling. Put on a pair of protective coveralls, safety goggles, a face mask and gloves before beginning to work. Ensure that no areas of your skin are exposed. Turn on the extraction unit of the sandblasting booth using the operation panel provided and ensure that all entry points to the booth are closed and sealed.

4

Switch on the sandblasting machine. Place the nozzle of the sandblasting machine over the rusted area of the panel and pull back the trigger to release the particles of sand. These will penetrate the rust. They should only be aimed at the panel for a few seconds at a time. Carry out regular visual checks to ensure that the particles of sand are not permeating the metal. Continue this until all of the rust has been removed.

5

Turn off the sandblasting machine. Blow off all of the particles of sand from the auto body panel and remove the panel from the sandblasting booth once it has been turned off. A small application of body filler will be required if the sand has pitted the metal before priming can take place.

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