How many CFMs for Abrasive Blasting...

[Paumanok]

I have a lead on this compressor:

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_454_454


Specs are 25CFM@175psi rated at 100% continuous duty, 30gal. tank, 3/4" outlet.


Iknow it only has a 30gal. tank, but I'm thinking the 100% continuous rating means it could still deliver 25cfm even if the tank is "empty", right??


Is ~25 CFM enough volume for soda/sandblasting? Also, does anyone have any experience with these particular compressors? Thanks GJ!

 

[Paumanok]

Bump for any feedback, as I'm heading out to look at it soon.......Somebody, anybody?? TIA

 

[njfl]

This compressor is more than enough for blasting. When looking at the gas-powered compressors, anything from 8hp and up will suffice. An 8-hp wheelbarrow style would give you a little more portability if that is of interest to you.

Take a look at the blast cabinets at TP Tools:

http://www.tptools.com/p/2709,53_960-T-Sandblasting-Cabinet.html

You'll see that the requirements are much less (10-15cfm @ 80-100psi).

The consumption is in the nozzle, so whether you are doing cabinet blasting or outdoors blasting the requirements would be similar.

 

[Packard V8]

"How many CFMs for Abrasive Blasting"

is akin to asking how high is up. Even the smallest blast units have four different nozzle sizes and the largest takes three times as many CFMs as the smallest. I have a BIG Clemco Zero Pulsar cabinet which needs 115 CFM with the largest nozzle sizes.

Bottom line - choose your blast unit first and then buy a compressor at least one size larger than the CFM requirement for the largest nozzle.

thnx, jack vines

 

[Paumanok]

Thanks guys!

I should add that my need for blasting would probably be maybe like a few days out of the year, so occasional blasting, but I want some assurance that the performance will be good with 25CFMs. It should also deliver quite a bit more oomph to my air tools: impacts, air rathcets, die grinders.

I'm considering making a basic square tube frame, and mouting it on some 6" pneumatic casters so I can just wheel it outside when I need it.I will be able to hoist it into the back of the truck(leaving the wheeled frame behind) for any off site/field use

 

[Major Ramifications]

Those type of compressors are typically mounted into the back of a truck, so they don't put big tanks on them. It will give you plenty enough air for blasting, as there are different nozzle sizes available.
Is there a reason you need a gasoline powered unit?