The full set up of a sandblasting equipment and a sponge blasting equipment may differ slightly depending on the specific equipment and application, but here are some of the main components required for each:

Sandblasting Equipment Set Up:

  1. Sandblasting Cabinet: This is a sealed enclosure where the sandblasting process takes place.
  2. Blasting Gun: This is the tool used to blast the sand onto the surface being treated.
  3. Compressor: This is used to create the air pressure required to blast the sand out of the gun.
  4. Abrasive Material: This is typically sand or another abrasive material that is fed into the gun.
  5. Protective Gear: Workers must wear protective gear, such as gloves, goggles, and respirators, to protect themselves from the dust and debris created by the sandblasting process.

Sponge Blasting Equipment Set Up:

  1. Sponge Blasting Machine: This is a specially designed machine that uses a sponge media to blast surfaces.
  2. Blasting Gun: This is the tool used to blast the sponge media onto the surface being treated.
  3. Compressor: This is used to create the air pressure required to blast the sponge media out of the gun.
  4. Sponge Media: This is the blasting media used in the sponge blasting process.
  5. Dust Containment System: Sponge blasting is designed to be a dustless process, so a dust containment system is required to collect and dispose of any debris created during the process.
  6. Protective Gear: Workers must wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, to protect themselves from any debris that may be created during the sponge blasting process.

Overall, both sandblasting and sponge blasting require a similar set of basic components, including a blasting gun, compressor, and blasting media. However, sand blasting equipment requires additional components, such as a dust containment system, ensuring that the dust environment is contained. Additionally, sandblasting requires more protective gear for its worker as compared to sponge blasting.

Here are some other key differences between sandblasting and sponge blasting machines:

  1. Blasting Media: As mentioned, sandblasting machines use sand as the blasting media. This type of media can create a lot of dust, which can be hazardous to workers and the environment. Sponge blasting machines, on the other hand, use a sponge media that is designed to be dustless and eco-friendly.
  2. Surface Preparation: Sandblasting is a highly effective method for surface preparation, but it can be too abrasive for some surfaces, such as delicate or thin materials. Sponge blasting is a gentler method that can be used on a wider range of surfaces without causing damage.
  3. Noise and Vibration: Sandblasting machines can create a lot of noise and vibration, which can be uncomfortable for workers and can also damage nearby structures. Sponge blasting machines are designed to be quieter and produce less vibration, making them more suitable for use in sensitive environments.
  4. Cost: Sandblasting machines tend to be less expensive than sponge blasting machines, but they can also be more costly to operate due to the need for sand and the cost of disposing of the resulting dust. Sponge blasting machines can be more expensive to purchase initially, but they are more cost-effective over the long term due to the lower cost of the media and the reduced need for dust containment.