One of the best methods for eliminating rust during auto body restoration is sandblasting. This process uses abrasive media such as metal shot, glass beads and shell particles. These are blasted at a high velocity from speciality equipment. When the abrasive materials come in contact with rusted metal, they will strip the damaged outer layer with old paint and rust deposits. As a result, a fresh surface will be exposed, allowing for the restoration of the old vehicle. If you are planning on sandblasting for the first time, utilise the outlined precautions for the perfect results.

Acquire a Sandblaster

You should choose a good sandblaster for the auto restoration work. It is important to find a machine which will deliver the abrasive media to the body panels at the most effective rate. In general, you should consider the compatibility of the unit with different media. Also, check the blasting capacity in relation to the pressure and the holding capacity for the abrasive material. In addition, select nozzles that will improve the rust cleaning process. If you do not want to choose a professional for the sandblasting work, consider hiring a sandblaster from an equipment rental specialist.

Choose the Right Media

The type of media will determine the ease of cleaning the rusted auto surfaces. In simple terms, you should note that the cleaning capacities of different particles will vary. Therefore, compare the abrasive products and make your decision. The most efficient material for extremely rusted surfaces is aluminium metal shot. This material is hard and will strip the stubborn spots from the vehicle. However, the high pressure can cause significant damage to delicate panels.

When dealing with a flimsy material, it is advisable to look for a gentler abrasive medium. A good alternative to metal is glass beads. These have good stripping power, and they minimise the damage to the vehicle. You can also choose lightweight options like walnut shell particles. Their efficiency is limited, but the residues are better for the environment due to biodegradability. If you are uncertain about the best choice, reach out to an auto body specialist.

Prepare for the Work

Finally, you should set up your worksite for the sandblasting process. Poor preparation can cause dangerous incidents. For instance, it is advisable to protect the vulnerable parts of the vehicle such as the mirrors and windows. You can remove components or cover with a suitable layer. Also, you must use full protective gear because the abrasive particles released at high speed could cause serious personal injuries.

Contact a sandblasting service for more information.