My experience with blast cabinets hasbeen based around cheap Chinese made units. You know ...
To read the rest of this blog entry from The Garage Journal, click here.
- Thread starter Ryan
- Start date
My experience with blast cabinets hasbeen based around cheap Chinese made units. You know ...
To read the rest of this blog entry from The Garage Journal, click here.
ZRX61
Well-known member
I have their 960 model.
One thing you need to do is take a piece of sponge & stuff it in the vent on the back of the cabinet. it will still allow airflow, but will stop dust ending up all over your shop.
One thing you need to do is take a piece of sponge & stuff it in the vent on the back of the cabinet. it will still allow airflow, but will stop dust ending up all over your shop.
countryroad82
Well-known member
I have a 970 and can't be happier with it. It's been one of those tools I don't know how I lived without it!!
ebonyswan
Well-known member
$1700? Yeah, that's just not going to happen. I have much more time than money, even if I don't have much of either.
Trey T
Well-known member
I need one but I don't have space for one. Anybody leave it outdoor in the weather - is it good idea?
drivesitfar
Well-known member
Ryan: the original founder and owner of Skat blast cabinets just joined our forum and here's his information on his introduction thread.
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=289927&page=2
I think he still works there after passing on the business to his son. I don't have room for it or the funds currently since i have 2 kids still living at home and in college, but once i found their cabinet i pretty much quit looking because pretty sure it's the one i'll buy when i buy one. if i remember correctly they sell it assembled or you can buy it and assemble it for quite a bit less.
BTW I always enjoy reading your threads
http://www.garagejournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=289927&page=2
I think he still works there after passing on the business to his son. I don't have room for it or the funds currently since i have 2 kids still living at home and in college, but once i found their cabinet i pretty much quit looking because pretty sure it's the one i'll buy when i buy one. if i remember correctly they sell it assembled or you can buy it and assemble it for quite a bit less.
BTW I always enjoy reading your threads
You do know Skat has a DIY kit to build your own cabinet??
http://www.tptools.com/Skat-Blast-Master-Build-Your-Own-Foot-Pedal-Cabinet-Kit-45-XL-Lens,7196.html?b=d*8042
I built a huge one 60" wide. 36" tall and 36" deep. Much bigger than the plans but you can scale them anyway you want to.
I also could not afford $1700 for a cabinet. Mine is much bigger than that one and I am at about $800-$900 in materials. Plus all my hours of labor but that was fun for me!
I still would like to add an extension because a blast box is like an air compressor. I don't think you can get one that's too large!!
http://www.tptools.com/Sandblast-Cabinet-Extensions.html
The best thing I did was build it with wheels. Wonderful to be able to move it around.
.
.
.
http://www.tptools.com/Skat-Blast-Master-Build-Your-Own-Foot-Pedal-Cabinet-Kit-45-XL-Lens,7196.html?b=d*8042
I built a huge one 60" wide. 36" tall and 36" deep. Much bigger than the plans but you can scale them anyway you want to.
I also could not afford $1700 for a cabinet. Mine is much bigger than that one and I am at about $800-$900 in materials. Plus all my hours of labor but that was fun for me!
I still would like to add an extension because a blast box is like an air compressor. I don't think you can get one that's too large!!
http://www.tptools.com/Sandblast-Cabinet-Extensions.html
The best thing I did was build it with wheels. Wonderful to be able to move it around.
.
.
.
coljar
Well-known member
I bought the 960 model about 3 years ago. I've been very happy with it.
I had years of experience using industrial quality cabinets at work before going the HF route for home use. It was like going from a Ferrari to a Pinto. I ended up with a Skat Blast 780-TL which I am very happy with. As it is with many such things, once you have a unit you find that there is something that you can't quite get in the door and so you want a larger cabinet.
I think that if I ever do upgrade (size wise) I would go the **** DIY kit route and build a larger cabinet.
I think that if I ever do upgrade (size wise) I would go the **** DIY kit route and build a larger cabinet.
I would love a USA made one. I bought this grizzly for 625 shipped and it's a nice unit.
http://www.grizzly.com/products/24-inch-x-48-inch-Blast-Cabinet/G0708
http://www.grizzly.com/products/24-inch-x-48-inch-Blast-Cabinet/G0708
FRITZ OHIO
Well-known member
Looks real good Ryan and thanks for the plug! We are glad to have our equipment in use in your shop. Should you need technical assistance now or any time in the future, we are near as your phone and we answer our phones live, so no buttons to push or long recordings. Ouir new 164 page catalog is now available at www.tptools.com or call us at 800-321-9260. Catalogs are mailed via first class mail the same day requested and everything is in stock for quick shipment.
Fred
TP Tools
Canfield, Ohio
Pictures of our facility attached. Our entire complex of buildings is over 100,000 sq. ft. and we have been manufacturing Skat Blast Cabinets since 1978. Our manufacturing plant is in the rear of the larger building. The smaller buildings in left foreground are two car museum buildings and two storage buildings in Canfield, Ohio. Also want to thank your forum members for their nice comments about our equipment.
Fred
TP Tools
Canfield, Ohio
Pictures of our facility attached. Our entire complex of buildings is over 100,000 sq. ft. and we have been manufacturing Skat Blast Cabinets since 1978. Our manufacturing plant is in the rear of the larger building. The smaller buildings in left foreground are two car museum buildings and two storage buildings in Canfield, Ohio. Also want to thank your forum members for their nice comments about our equipment.
Attachments
tcianci
Well-known member
I bought a Skat Blast cabinet at either Hershey or Carlisle, I can't remember. I have used the daylights out of this thing. I couldn't be more pleased with it. I can't imagine my shop without it!
dodge610
Well-known member
I have the skat blast 960 model bought it years ago. thinkin about selling it and going with a bigger model.
Iron-Iceberg
Well-known member
I've been wanting one for a few years now, but the shipping to California kills it for me.
Any chance we could have a CA group buy or something to get the shipping down to zone 1 cost?
Any chance we could have a CA group buy or something to get the shipping down to zone 1 cost?
Flowmeister
Active member
Now you need a screw compressor.
Mine works good with a two stage 7 hp piston compressor,
but you can never have too much air.
Mine works good with a two stage 7 hp piston compressor,
but you can never have too much air.
How about some pictures of your build?
volleyball
Well-known member
Yeah, we should have a show your cabinet thread. I like the idea of a build your own. No way can I afford a commercial unit but the kit seems right up my alley.
I also don't have the space so if anyone has built a cabinet that can be broken down and set aside for the majority of the time.
Fritz, I though maybe since you sell the kit, you'd have pictures of peoples home builts which would help you sell more. And expand your buyers pool to a larger geographical area.
I also don't have the space so if anyone has built a cabinet that can be broken down and set aside for the majority of the time.
Fritz, I though maybe since you sell the kit, you'd have pictures of peoples home builts which would help you sell more. And expand your buyers pool to a larger geographical area.
PCO6
Well-known member
volleyball - Here are some images of the Garage Journal's homemade (and other) sandblast cabinets.
https://www.google.ca/search?q=gara...v&sa=X&ei=41JLVdCDOYeYyASY7ICABw&ved=0CCoQsAQ
https://www.google.ca/search?q=gara...v&sa=X&ei=41JLVdCDOYeYyASY7ICABw&ved=0CCoQsAQ
Youngfd
Well-known member
I have the 960 model also. Recently upgraded to the HEPA vacuum system. It has never worked better!! Stored outside will not work unless maybe in AZ.. The blasters need dry sand and dry air!! I have 2 large filters inline on my air and keep one of those RV moisture collectors inside the cabinet when not in use.
bczygan
Well-known member
Trinco is the standard around here, since they are located in a Detroit suburb.
I have their smallest cabinet, bought used from a shop. Will need some rehab and a bigger compressor than I currently have hooked up. I'm also thinking of making additions to the box for longer items.
I have their smallest cabinet, bought used from a shop. Will need some rehab and a bigger compressor than I currently have hooked up. I'm also thinking of making additions to the box for longer items.
torqueman2002
Well-known member
My set-up: DYI TP Blast cabinet & mechanicals, and Husky badged Campbell Hausfeld 2 stage air compressor.
Last edited:
Falcon67
Well-known member
No. And especially in Houston, no. At the very least you'd have to remove all the material from the blaster and cover it with something. Blaster's require clean, very dry air to prevent material clotting.
nonhog
Well-known member
I have one that I bought in the 90's. Its (by nature) in need of some sealing.
It is a balance act of vacuum and pressure. I plan to add wheels on mine and only use it outdoors. Probably due for a new glass (plastic?).
Have a long list of things needing blasted now that I have dry air.
Been sitting over 5 years so I best study on current media to buy.
Glad I bought a good one as everything seems to be quality.
Although I've not used a cheapo to compare.
best pic I've got.
It is a balance act of vacuum and pressure. I plan to add wheels on mine and only use it outdoors. Probably due for a new glass (plastic?).
Have a long list of things needing blasted now that I have dry air.
Been sitting over 5 years so I best study on current media to buy.
Glad I bought a good one as everything seems to be quality.
Although I've not used a cheapo to compare.
best pic I've got.
Attachments
Last edited:
wbrian63
Well-known member
Here are some pictures of the one I built using the TP Tools kit:
With just the overhead flourescent light on
With the halogen spotlights on
Interior views
After a bit of use, I discovered that I needed some light shining directly forward onto the item being blased, so I added 3 LED "puck" lights I got from SuperbrightLeds:
For dust collection/management, I connected the cabinet to my cyclonic dust collector used for woodworking. Surprisingly little actual dust is being collected, but it does get worse as the glass bead wears down. Suction with the blast gate only 1/4 open inflates the gloves when I close the door...
One other modification that I made was to cut a slot on the diagonal side of the door frame directly behind the face of the box. Then I added two channels I cut out of 1/2 baltic birch plywood to allow me to slide a piece of standard 1/8" window glass into place in front of the safety glass. I found that the mylar protection film was fogging up way to fast, even just using glass bead. The window glass is cheap, I bought one piece to test the concept and it is 95% clear after many, many hours of blasting. When it comes time to replace it, I'll probably buy a half-dozen from my glass supplier just to save on the hassle of returning for replacements.
Additionally, I added a Harbor Freight refrigerated air dryer to my compressor and that completely cured all my moisture problems in the cabinet and elsewhere in the shop. An added bonus is that with long-term use, the air coming out of the gun is nice and cool - keeps the temps in the cabinet very comfy, even with the bright lights.
I also replaced the gloves with a set of tight-fitting gauntlet gloves used in the farm-and-ranch industry (think of the horrible things one might have to do with cows, etc that would require gloves that have looong gauntlets). Since I only use glass bead, they're holding up just fine, and they work a treat for holding and picking up small pieces.
TP Tools makes good stuff. Customer support A+, delivery, A+. I'll bet the cabinet is a real pleasure to use.
With just the overhead flourescent light on
With the halogen spotlights on
Interior views
After a bit of use, I discovered that I needed some light shining directly forward onto the item being blased, so I added 3 LED "puck" lights I got from SuperbrightLeds:
For dust collection/management, I connected the cabinet to my cyclonic dust collector used for woodworking. Surprisingly little actual dust is being collected, but it does get worse as the glass bead wears down. Suction with the blast gate only 1/4 open inflates the gloves when I close the door...
One other modification that I made was to cut a slot on the diagonal side of the door frame directly behind the face of the box. Then I added two channels I cut out of 1/2 baltic birch plywood to allow me to slide a piece of standard 1/8" window glass into place in front of the safety glass. I found that the mylar protection film was fogging up way to fast, even just using glass bead. The window glass is cheap, I bought one piece to test the concept and it is 95% clear after many, many hours of blasting. When it comes time to replace it, I'll probably buy a half-dozen from my glass supplier just to save on the hassle of returning for replacements.
Additionally, I added a Harbor Freight refrigerated air dryer to my compressor and that completely cured all my moisture problems in the cabinet and elsewhere in the shop. An added bonus is that with long-term use, the air coming out of the gun is nice and cool - keeps the temps in the cabinet very comfy, even with the bright lights.
I also replaced the gloves with a set of tight-fitting gauntlet gloves used in the farm-and-ranch industry (think of the horrible things one might have to do with cows, etc that would require gloves that have looong gauntlets). Since I only use glass bead, they're holding up just fine, and they work a treat for holding and picking up small pieces.
TP Tools makes good stuff. Customer support A+, delivery, A+. I'll bet the cabinet is a real pleasure to use.
Last edited:
PCO6
Well-known member
wbrian63 - I like the lights that you added. 
I might do the same to mine.
Mine work well but that's a nice addition ...
View media item 38071
I might do the same to mine.Mine work well but that's a nice addition ...
View media item 38071
Vegaman_Dan
Well-known member
Lighting is one failing in all the cabinets. The stock lighting is just too inadequate for the task. Flourescents help, but those halogen bulb floodlights do two things bad- harsh stark light right in your field of vision, and two, they statically charge the air and particles to cause them to cling to everything unless you ground the cabinet.
LED lighting a better solution and have more options. Putting lights below the viewing window and between the glove access ports is a great use of those LED puck lighting systems. That, in combination with an overhead light really will kill off the shadows.
It doesn't matter what brand you get or how much you spend. All can be improved in some way or another.
Yes, I bought the cheap Chinese cabinet and spent a good day in assembling it correctly and making mods as I went. That is part of my enjoyment of building tools and using them. Modify them to make them your own. I would do it to the larger and more expensive cabinet as well. My point is, it isn't what you pay, it's what you do to it and with it. Make it yours.
LED lighting a better solution and have more options. Putting lights below the viewing window and between the glove access ports is a great use of those LED puck lighting systems. That, in combination with an overhead light really will kill off the shadows.
It doesn't matter what brand you get or how much you spend. All can be improved in some way or another.
Yes, I bought the cheap Chinese cabinet and spent a good day in assembling it correctly and making mods as I went. That is part of my enjoyment of building tools and using them. Modify them to make them your own. I would do it to the larger and more expensive cabinet as well. My point is, it isn't what you pay, it's what you do to it and with it. Make it yours.
ratdoggy
Well-known member
Please don't use sand....Not good for you as it can cause silicosis....
FRITZ OHIO
Well-known member
Ditto on not using sand. ** WARNING ** Severe health hazard. In addition to being a health hazard - and never to be used for blasting, sand breaks down quickly to dust, which then does not cut fast, and also results in poor visibility inside the cabinet. This dust clogs the vacuum bag and/or filter, and leakage of this dust around the cabinet is common, resulting in an even greater health hazard. Note that it is never economical to use ANY abrasive after it breaks down. It is more economical to change abrasive on a regular basis for maximum efficiency and lowest final net cost.
Here is a link showing some choices of abrasives that provide various finishes that can be used inside any cabinet:
http://www.skatblast.com/abrasives.html
Or for a Free Catalog or online information listing many Abrasives (except sand), see www.tptools.com or call TP Tools in Canfield, Ohio at 800-321-9260. TP answers their phones live and can get your Free 164 page Catalog and Sales Flyer out to you via first class mail the same day you call. No buttons to push and no long recordings or waiting times. Orders can also be placed by phone, or on their Internet site.
And the many great ideas posted on lighting inside a sandblasting cabinet, (as well as other enhancements) are carefully noted and greatly appreciated!
Happy Blasting - Fred
FRITZ OHIO
Well-known member
I've got an old Sanblast cabinet I rebuilt. I love it...
Before
After
Wow Coop VA- looks better than new. Can you use a current Manual and a set of Skat Blast Labels? (Not available without a picture of old cabinet, which you have posted). If so, just call us at 800-321-9260 and mention Fred's post on the Garage Journal Forum. They will mail the logos, manual and our latest catalog via 1st class mail free of charge. Our Office Manager is aware of this offer if any questions when you call.
Fred
Trey T
Well-known member
agree... it can be really humid and mess up the blasting material.
zakmartin
Well-known member
Awesome cabinet. Trade your Craftsman 16 Gallon vac up for a nice American-made Shop-Vac and you're golden. 
I had a look at the Harbor Freight blast cabinet last year and didn't think it would be big enough to be useful on automotive restoration projects; plus, the build quality left a bit to be desired.
I expect to be buying the cabinet you just purchased (or one very close to it) in the next few years (after I move out of the city and get a shop on some acreage in Central Washington.) Thanks for the review!
I had a look at the Harbor Freight blast cabinet last year and didn't think it would be big enough to be useful on automotive restoration projects; plus, the build quality left a bit to be desired.I expect to be buying the cabinet you just purchased (or one very close to it) in the next few years (after I move out of the city and get a shop on some acreage in Central Washington.) Thanks for the review!
MoparTrucks
Well-known member
Just requested a catalog, lots of stuff in there I am interested in besides the blast cabinet.
FRITZ OHIO
Well-known member
How about this FREE OFFER for a set of Plans to Build Your Own Blasting Cabinet?
If you are posting on this thread ("A Real Blast Cabinet") and would like a Free Set of Plans to build your own cabinet, we can supply the following FREE OF CHARGE and we will send by First Class Mail the same day:
1) Set of Plans - see http://www.tptools.com/Build-Your-Own-Cabinet-Plans,337.html?b=s*PLANS (Regular $9.95).
2) Latest TP Tools Catalog describing all of our cabinets, cabinet parts, abrasives and more - 164 Pages.
3) Current Sales Flyer.
Offer good only for posters on this thread until June 30, 2015.
PHONE: This can be done by calling TP Tools at 800-321-9260 between 8 AM and 4:30 PM weekdays and asking for either of our two Office Managers, who are aware of this offer. Give your name used on this site for reference, along with your mailing address. They will check to be sure you are currently posting on this thread. If not yet posting, go ahead and do so before calling. All the above will be sent via 1st Class Mail the same day at no charge - U.S. & Canada only.
EMAIL: Since offer is at no charge, you can also order by email by sending your information with your request to: info@tptools dot com * Our actual email address not posted to minimize spam - you can figure it out however. Sorry no export other than to Canada.
numan3
New member
Awesome cabinet. I would like to have one for my shop & this just may be the ticket.
caesar2001
Well-known member
I will be requesting this today! Thanks.
cowboy73
Well-known member
Thanks so much for the free plan offer! Heckuva nice thing to do.