What do we mean by maximum abrasive velocity? Simply put, it’s the fastest you can propel abrasive against a part without the abrasive exploding into smaller, useless pieces.
Pro Tip: When you’re using a Siphon delivery method you also need to be very careful about the air pressure you use. Nearly all abrasives will reach maximum impact velocity in a siphon blasting cabinet using 90 to 100 psi blasting pressure, 50 psi using direct pressure abrasive delivery.
9 Things to Know About Maximum Abrasive Velocity & Blast Cabinets
- Siphon velocity and pressure velocity are different at the same blasting pressure.
- Most abrasives delivered using siphon reach maximum impact velocity at 90 to 100 psi.
- Most abrasives delivered using direct pressure reach maximum impact velocity at 50 psi.
- Glass beads can normally impact a steel part and bounce off at 80 psi using siphon and 40 psi using direct pressure. Higher blasting pressures will fracture and break beads that lesson the recycle rate.
- Plastic abrasive can be used in siphon and pressure machines.The type of machine depends on the type of application.
- Exceeding maximum impact velocity can occur with all abrasive types, even steel shot, grit and cut wire.
- Impact velocity lessens, as the part being cleaned gets harder. Most impact velocities are measured using CRS (cold roll steel).
- Exceeding maximum impact velocity will quickly overload any machine dust collector
- Abrasive recycle rate (time used) is more the lower the blasting pressure used.
To Sum It Up
If you try to blast at a speed that exceed’s your abrasive’s maximum impact velocity you’re going to decrease visibility inside your cabinet, waste abrasive, and create a big mess. If you think you’re running into this problem, our experts are happy to help guide you through choosing the right abrasive and velocity for your application.