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VAPR-Blast™ Cabinet

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VAPR-Blast™ Wet Abrasive (Vapour) Blast Cabinets

Quantum Blast Australia manufactures the VAPR-Blast™ range of Australian-made wet abrasive (vapour) blast cabinets, engineered for precision, reliability, and durability. This comprehensive FAQ explains the principles of wet blasting, abrasive selection, equipment operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting — helping users get the best performance from their VAPR-Blast cabinet.

FAQ

What is wet blasting (vapour blasting) and how does it differ from dry blasting?
Wet blasting combines water and abrasive media into a slurry that is propelled onto the surface using compressed air. The water cushions the abrasive, suppresses dust, reduces frictional heat, and prevents media embedment. Dry blasting uses only air and abrasive and creates a more aggressive, dusty environment that can leave a coarse profile.

Why should I prefer a wet blast cabinet over a dry blast cabinet?
Wet blast cabinets deliver smoother finishes, operate dust-free, and clean and degrease in one step. The process preserves part geometry, reduces wear on consumables, operates quietly, and eliminates heat and spark risk. Dry cabinets can remove heavy coatings faster but require dust collectors and more post-processing.

Australian-made VAPR-Blast models by Quantum Blast
Quantum Blast Australia offers three stainless-steel VAPR-Blast cabinet models to suit different workloads:

  • 900 × 900 mm — Single-phase power, 1.5 kW pump
  • 1100 × 1100 mm — Three-phase power, 4.5 kW pump
  • 1400 × 1400 mm — Three-phase power, 4.5 kW pump

All are built in Australia for industrial reliability and long service life.

How does the wet blasting process work?
Inside the sealed cabinet, a slurry pump circulates the water-abrasive mix through the blast gun. Compressed air introduced at the gun propels the slurry onto the workpiece. The spent slurry drains back into the sump where it is filtered and reused.

What are the main applications of a vapour blast cabinet?
Applications include cleaning, surface preparation, coating removal, polishing, and peening.

Industries: automotive (engine and wheel restoration), aerospace (precision parts cleaning), fabrication, marine, mining, and maintenance workshops.

How does the surface finish from a wet blast cabinet compare to dry blasting?
Wet blasting provides a cool, uniform, satin-smooth finish free from embedded grit. Dry blasting creates a rougher, more aggressive surface with visible texture. Wet blasting improves coating adhesion without damaging delicate substrates.

What factors should be considered when choosing abrasive media?
Key factors: grit size, shape, hardness, density, friability, recyclability, and cost. Larger and harder abrasives cut faster but leave deeper profiles; smaller or softer abrasives yield finer finishes.

Characteristics of common media
  • Garnet: Mohs 7.5–8.5, high cutting efficiency, recyclable up to 5×
  • Crushed glass: Mohs 5–6, economical, limited recyclability
  • Glass beads: Mohs 5–6, smooth peening finish, recyclable up to 30×
  • Aluminium oxide: Mohs 9, aggressive, recyclable up to 50×
  • Soda bicarbonate: Mohs 2.5, gentle single-use medium for delicate cleaning

Can abrasive media be recycled in a wet blast cabinet?
Yes. Most abrasives can be reused multiple times. Spent slurry should be periodically purged to remove fines and topped up with fresh media. Glass beads and aluminium oxide recycle well; soda is single-use.

What kinds of finishes can be achieved?
  • Deep anchor profiles for coating adhesion
  • Smooth satin finishes for aesthetic components
  • Peened (dimpled) finishes for stress relief

Finish depends on media type, grit size, air pressure, and slurry concentration.

What should I consider when choosing a vapour blast cabinet?
Look for adjustable pressure, 2 mm stainless-steel construction, local (Australian) manufacture, compliance with electrical standards, large viewing window with rinse/wiper, wide media compatibility, appropriate cabinet size, correct power and air requirements, accurate abrasive flow control, good lighting, ergonomic layout, strong technical support, media recycling system, and interior linings.

How do I select an air compressor?
Match compressor output (CFM and PSI) to nozzle size and desired pressure. Include a margin for line losses and future growth. Rotary screw compressors are recommended for continuous use.

How do I add or change abrasive media?
Open the cabinet grate, pour in the recommended quantity of media, fill with water to the marked level, and run the pump to mix. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for capacity and proportions.

How do I control the abrasive flow and air pressure?
Use the control valves to adjust slurry density and air input. Higher slurry flow increases coverage; higher air pressure increases aggressiveness. Adjust settings gradually to achieve uniform results without excessive consumption.

How can I prevent flash rusting after wet blasting?
Use clean, low-chloride water and a compatible rust inhibitor. Dry parts immediately with clean compressed air and apply protective coating within 72 hours if required.

How should I dispose of used or spent media?
Allow the slurry to settle, decant clean water, and dewater the residue. Check for contaminants removed during blasting and follow local environmental regulations for disposal.

Does water quality affect blasting results?
Yes. Water pH and mineral content influence surface appearance. Neutral pH (~7) is ideal. Hard or acidic water can cause staining or discoloration; use filtered or treated water if needed.

What maintenance does a VAPR-Blast cabinet require?
Routine: clean sump, flush hoses, check extractor filters, inspect nozzles, gloves, and seals, and replace worn components. The wet process extends wear life compared with dry blasting.

Can the cabinets be customised?
Yes. Options include rotating turntables, part trolleys, closed-loop filtration, extra lighting, dual guns, custom jigs and fixtures, and special nozzles.

What technical support is available?
Quantum Blast provides direct local support, spare parts, and training. All VAPR-Blast cabinets are backed by Australian expertise and service.

Why choose an Australian-made wet abrasive blast cabinet?
Australian-made VAPR-Blast cabinets combine robust design, compliance with local safety standards, readily available spare parts, and dependable support — ensuring reliability and long-term value.