What exactly is a blasting cabinet? It is a closed loop system allowing the user to blast the part whilst recycling the abrasive, according to wiseGEEK. There are three standard systems in a blasting cabinet: siphon, pressure, and wet. The abrasive can range from mineral to agricultural, and varies depending on the desired outcome of the blasting. But what can a blasting cabinet be used for? Here are a few purposes of blasting.
1. Blasting is often used to create works of art. It spreads from engraving on modern cemetery monuments to glasswork, creating the illusion of frosted or glazed glass. As the Merritt Gallery stated, glasswork has advanced as a contemporary art form, focusing on manipulating glass surfaces as part of creative expression. This art style has gained traction in recent years, and its increasing popularity is converting sandblasting into something more accessible to the public.
2. Another key aspect of blasting is its use in cleaning. Boat hulls, concrete work, brick and stone – harsh, abrasive materials that are difficult to clean will be quickly and efficiently polished by blasting. The propulsion of tiny rough particles against these surfaces speeds up cleaning of commercial and industrial structures.
3. One lesser known purpose of blasting is how it is used in fashion. Ever heard of worn jeans with frayed ends? A large proportion of consumers are willing to pay more for jeans that have the illusion of being used and torn. Blasting is employed to create this very effect, with gentler abrasives being deployed in blasting cabinets to give fabrics the perfect worn look.
Blasting has many varied purposes, and you can try some of them out for yourself. Take glasswork for instance – its surge in popularity indicates avenues for you to experience it firsthand. Just grab a blasting cabinet, some safety goggles, and a certified instructor (if you have no clue what you are doing) and have at it!
