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Blast pressure determines the velocity of the abrasive exiting the nozzle. Set it too low and it may make blasting unnecessarily slow or completely ineffective. Set it too high, and you risk damaging the part.

Depending on the type of application, you might blast from as low as 15 PSI up to as high as 125 PSI.  How do you know where to start?  Learn how in this video MicroLesson in MicroBlasting.

Particle Velocity v. Pressure

Blast pressure is related to velocity. Though not linear, higher blast pressures result in faster particle speeds. The relationship is affected by particle size, mass and shape.

Particle Velocity v. Distance

As abrasive exits the nozzle it continues to accelerate.

In fixtured applications, pressure can be used to normalize velocity over varying nozzle distances.

Pressure ≠ Abrasive Flow

Increasing blast pressure will not increase abrasive flow.

Abrasive flow is the amount of abrasive media relative to the volume of air. If you need a richer abrasive stream, change the orifice in the abrasive tank.

Need help with your application? Ask us.

Our Technical Specialists manage most sample-part testing and processing from start-to-finish. They actively collaborate with our Sales and Engineering Teams while remaining completely accessible to you throughout the process.  Learn more…

Our Technical Specialists provide a comprehensive report after all sample testing.

Dig Deeper

Blast pressure dial; air pressure dial on Comco AccuFlo.

Should You "Go Up to 11?"

Increasing the blast pressure may produce desired results faster, or it may turn that beautiful matte finish into a cratered moon surface. Here’s what you need to know before you crank that pressure all the way up. Continue Reading →

Comco offers an array of abrasive media for MicroBlasting applications.

MicroBlasting Guide to Precision Abrasives

Which abrasive should you be using? Learn about each abrasives unique properties that determine which is right for your application in the MicroBlasting Guide to Precision Abrasives Continue reading 

Colin Weightman

Questions about MicroBlasting?

Email me or give me a call at 818-841-5500.