Sandblasting consumes compressed air faster than almost any other workshop process. The correct compressor is determined by the blast nozzle air demand and operating pressure, not by horsepower. A nozzle that needs more CFM than the compressor can deliver simply stops blasting effectively.
How to size
- Read the nozzle CFM rating at your working pressure
- Multiply by the number of nozzles running at once
- Add 25–30% for hose length, fittings and compressor wear
- Keep system pressure at the nozzle, not just at the tank
Common industrial nozzles need from about 10 CFM for light work to 50 CFM or more for large abrasive nozzles. A compressor that is 10% short means lost blasting speed and excessive machine run time.
Air quality for blasting
Moisture causes abrasive to clump and clog the pot. Fit a refrigerated dryer or aftercooler with a water separator and drain, and keep the receiver tank large enough to damp pressure pulses. This protects both the finish quality and the abrasive flow.
Duty cycle
Sandblasting is continuous, high-load work. Choose a machine rated for 100% duty at the required pressure, and prefer a screw compressor over a piston unit for sustained output.