Letter 33022

Does sandblasting warp 2mm steel sheet? [Wisconsin] 

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We are bidding a project where we buy an ecoated steel enclosure (for a generator set). We will modify the enclosure, have it sand blasted by a subcontractor, and then repaint it with special marine paints. The steel enclosure is made out of 14ga (2mm) and 16ga (1.5mm) steel.

Can thin steel like that be safely sandblasted? . . . or will the steel panels and doors warp severely?

Mark Anderson
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA

Distortion should not normally be a problem; however, pressure, angle and dwell time all play a factor in creating such a problem.

AF Kenton Nova Finishing Systems Inc. Huntingdon Valley, PA

They will absolutely distort. How much depends on the impact energy and how much material is removed. Sandblasting both sides tends to offset the warpage of the other side. Can you live with it?? That depends on what your limits are.

James Watts
- FL

I have 15+ years of sandblasting and used to blast many thin items. Car bodies, frames, steel sheet etc. Your sheets need to be blasted by sweeping them. I also used to blast with a 50/50 sand/sand powder mixture that cleaned very well. Instruct the blaster to stay at least 2 feet away from the sheeting and if possible have a solid back for the sheet. Shouldn't be a problem if the guy knowes what he's doing.

Good Luck,

Fred Read
- Duluth, MN, USA

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