Both sandblasting and soda blasting methods are used in the various industries for precision and speed during cleaning, smoothening and removing of surface finishes. Both approaches involve the blasting of a surface with a “media.” This helps to remove dirt, paint and any other undesirable contaminants on the surface. This article will clarify the major differences between the two methods as well as their advantages and disadvantages.

Benefits of soda blasting

It is eco-friendly

A Bi-carbonate media is used during soda blasting. The size of the particle used is bigger than that used in the food industry but is very pure. This makes it very friendly to the environment.

Non-toxic

Sodium bicarbonate is a major component in your body. This compound does not have any adverse effect on the body processes such as inhalation and digestion. In fact, this process is approved by the Department of Agriculture in the U.S.

Non-abrasive

Bicarbonate of soda is soft as far as hardness is concerned. During the soda blasting process, the soda crystals that explode outward can remove any surface contaminant without having any effect or damaging the substrate.

No heat is produced

With soda blasting, no heat is generated on impact. This ensures that warping or distortion of the object being treated does not happen.

There is no activation on the metal

The immediate coating is required on the activated metals to prevent them from rusting. However, soda blasting does not break the surface tension since there is no heat production during the process.

Disadvantages of soda blasting

Limited storage time

Soda carbonate absorbs moisture more readily thus forming clumps. This calls for extra care and precaution during the storage to minimize any contact with moisture.

Harmful to the plants

Soda and its compounds are slightly alkaline and might harm the nearby vegetation and plants. This calls for proper rinsing of any dust produced after the treatment process.

Benefits of sandblasting

Produces a clean profile surface

Sandblasting enables the production of a surface profile on the metal surface. This facilitates the application of the coating finish as required by the manufacturer.

Aggressive blast action

This allows for a quick removal of the surface finish contaminants on the metal surface.
Disadvantages of sandblasting

Abrasive

The sandblasting process involves the removal of the surface contaminants by wearing action. This implies that the substrate is likely to be damaged if proper care is not taken.

Activates the metal

Heat is produced during sandblasting. This heat activates iron and its compounds thereby causing direct oxidation.

Contains silica

Sand is mainly composed of silica. Continued exposure of sand is hazardous to the human health. It may lead to lung or silicosis diseases which are very fatal.