What is a sandblasting job?

What is a sandblaster?

A sandblaster is an industrial equipment that uses high-speed jet abrasives (such as sand, steel shot, glass beads, etc.) to clean, strengthen or process the surface of an object. It is widely used in metal processing, automobile manufacturing, ship repair, construction and other industries.

What does a sandblaster do?

Metal processing: rust removal, oxide removal, electroplating/spraying pre-treatment
Automobile manufacturing: engine parts, frame cleaning
Ship/bridge: steel structure anti-corrosion treatment
Glass/ceramics: frosting effect, pattern engraving
Electronic industry: circuit board cleaning, deburring
Construction industry: concrete surface treatment, monument restoration

How to become a sandblaster

1. Basic requirements
(1) Age and physical condition
- At least 18 years old (some countries/regions may require 21 years old).
- In good health, without serious respiratory diseases (such as asthma, silicosis, etc.), and able to adapt to long-term standing work.

(2) Educational background
- Usually requires junior high school or high school education or above.
- Basic mechanical knowledge or related work experience (such as welding, metal processing) is preferred.

2. Skill training and certification
(1) Participate in sandblasting operation training
- Course content:
- The working principle and types of sandblasting machines (pneumatic, centrifugal, etc.).
- Selection and use of abrasive types (steel sand, glass beads, aluminum oxide, etc.).
- Surface treatment standards (such as Sa2.5, Sa3 rust removal grades).
- Safety operating procedures (dust prevention, explosion prevention, equipment maintenance).
- Training institutions:
- Vocational technical schools, welding/spraying training centers
- Certification courses provided by equipment manufacturers or industry associations (such as NACE, SSPC).

(2) Obtain relevant certificates (depending on regional requirements)
- Common certifications:
- NACE certification (International Association of Corrosion Engineers, suitable for high-end industrial sandblasting).
- OSHA certification (US occupational safety training, emphasizing work safety).
- Local special operation operation certificate (such as China's "Metal Surface Treatment Operation Certificate").