Editing Sandblasting

The term "sandblasting" is confusing, as, in its most specific interpretation, it means [[Media blasting|abrasive blasting]] using sand as the blasting medium. More commonly, "sandblasting" is used to refer to [[Media blasting|abrasive blasting]] using any blasting medium. This is somewhat of a misnomer, as sand is frequently a poor choice for a blasting medium. ==Sandblasting body panels is generally ill-advised== Sandblasting automotive body panels, using sand as the blasting medium, is not recommended, for the following reasons: *Sandblasting '''impinges''' sheet metal. *Prolonged sand blasting of thin sheet metal causes frictional heat that may warp metal. (''disputed; needs confirmation'') *Sand creates chloride ions and corrosive salts that promote [[rust]]. ''(this statement needs confirmation/expansion)'' ==Sandblasting engine parts is also generally ill-advised== Sandblasting looks like a nice and time saving method to get rid of all kinds of stuff sticking to the surfaces of engines. Unfortunately sandblasting also sends abrasive particles of all kinds at high speeds into all possible crevices and holes in an engine. While the removal and smoothing of the surface may be a short job cleaning any component afterwards in order to get rid of any sand particle completely will be very time consuming and is never accomplished 100 %. Lately I had to disassemble a 1970's Corvette big-block which had been completely rebuilt. The intake manifold had been sand blasted and thoroughly cleaned with compressed air. Unfortunately for the customer there were still sand particles (corund and glass beads) present in remote areas of the casting and the porosity of the cast. After 200 miles the engine was consuming 1 - 1 1/2 quarts of oil every 200 miles! After washing out the piston ring area with solvent and letting it settle and dry the microscope had shown the culprit particles. The abrasion on rings and piston was amazing. Particles were to be found down to the main bearings. The engine had to be completely rebuild a second time. While sandblasting has it's applications I would strongly dissuade everybody from using it on any engine part. ==References== *[http://www.hotrodders.com/forum/once-all-wiki-soda-blasting-162700.html Once and for all: wiki on Soda blasting] Hotrodders forum thread ==Resources== *[http://www.hotrodders.com/kb/media-blasting Media Blasting]Hotrodders Knowledge Base ;Crankcase Coalition article *[[Media blasting]] *[[Soda blasting]] [[Category:Body and exterior]] [[Category:Garage and shop]]

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