What is Sandblast Hose?

The sandblasting hose, also known as a blast hose or abrasive blasting hose, is designed to transport abrasive materials from the blast pot to the nozzle. Its structure, characteristics, abrasion resistance, and applications are crucial for its performance and efficiency in sandblasting operations. Here’s an overview:

Structure:

Inner Tube: The inner part of a sandblasting hose is typically made from high-quality, abrasion-resistant rubber that can withstand the high-speed impact of abrasive particles such as sand, steel shot, or grit. The material must be tough to reduce wear and tear.

Reinforcement: Around the inner tube, there are layers of fabric or metal reinforcements that provide the strength needed to resist kinking and to withstand the high pressure generated during the blasting process. These reinforcements are often made of materials like nylon, polyester, or steel wire.

Outer Cover: The outer layer of the hose is also made of rubber, but with additional properties to resist weathering, ozone, and other environmental factors. It also protects the reinforcement layers from damage.

Characteristics:

High Abrasion Resistance: As the primary characteristic, the hose is designed to resist wear from the transfer of abrasive materials.

Flexibility: Despite its tough construction, a blast hose must remain flexible enough to allow for easy handling and maneuverability around corners and in tight spaces.

Pressure Resistance: It can handle the high pressures used in sandblasting operations, typically ranging from 10 to 20 bar (150 to 300 PSI), and sometimes higher.

Diameter: The inner diameter can vary according to the application, but it must be matched with the nozzle size and the flow rate of the abrasive material.

Abrasion Resistance Coefficient:

The abrasion resistance coefficient is a measure of the material’s ability to withstand wear. In sandblasting hoses, this is usually rated according to international standards or the manufacturer’s specifications.

The coefficient is determined by tests such as the DIN 53516: 1987 (Deutsche Industrie Norm) abrasion test, which measures the volume loss of the material after a certain number of cycles against an abrasive medium.

The lower the volume loss, the higher the abrasion resistance coefficient and the longer the hose will last. 

Usually our European standard wear resistance coefficient is 60 and the national standard wear resistance coefficient is 90. The lower the wear resistance coefficient, the more wear-resistant the pipe is.

Applications:

Surface Preparation: Sandblasting hoses are used in surface preparation for painting, coating, or bonding, where the surface needs to be free from rust, scale, or contaminants.

Cleaning: They are also used for cleaning structures, like removing graffiti from walls or cleaning industrial equipment.

Etching or Decorating Glass: Finer abrasives can be used with blasting hoses for etching designs onto glass or other surfaces.

Concrete Resurfacing: Sandblasting hoses are used in the construction industry for resurfacing concrete or preparing surfaces for repair.

When selecting a sandblasting hose, it’s crucial to choose the right size, length, and material to match the specific needs of the application, taking into account the type and size of the abrasive, the blast pressure, and the environment in which the hose will be used. Proper maintenance and timely replacement of worn hoses are essential to ensure safety and efficiency in sandblasting operations.