SODA BLASTING
PERFORMANCE TIPS
•
We have been finding soda “clumps” in new bags of soda blast media from
the factory. These clumps will clog the restrictor in the Model 2-PS and 2-S,
and the down tubes in the Performance Plus. We recommend that you
screen your soda through a piece of 1/16” mesh into a bucket, and then fill
your soda blaster. This will save you time in the long run, and also increase
the life of the tubes inside of your control box on the Model 2-PS and 2-S.
•
Never leave unused soda blast media in your soda blaster overnight. Always
empty any unused media into a sealed plastic container between uses. Also,
put partially used bags of soda blast media into a plastic garbage or lawn bag
and seal the bag. Moisture from the air can otherwise be absorbed by the
media and can cause clogging problems in restrictors and tubes.
•
The moisture trap is not a moisture filter. If you see an accumulation of
water in the trap, chances are the moisture is also getting into the tank and
being absorbed by the soda blast media, potentially causing clogging. If you
are in a high humidity environment, you may need an in-line moisture filter.
We are currently testing several brands to determine which one works best
with our units. In extreme conditions, an air chiller may be necessary.
•
Always keep the soda blast delivery hose as straight as possible while using
our portable soda blasters. Do not operate your unit with the hose coiled or
with sharp radius curves. The soda blast media will wear away the hose
from the inside causing premature hose failure. The media stream will also
lose cleaning power from “bouncing” around the bends.
•
Never use a quick disconnect coupling with your soda blaster. The small
inside diameter of such couplings will restrict the airflow from your
compressor, and will adversely affect the performance of your unit. Such
connections can also be potential safety hazards.
•
Always use a minimum 3/8” inside diameter air delivery hose from your
compressor to the Model 2-PS and 2-S Soda Blasters. If you use one of the
larger nozzles (3/8” or 1/4"), you must use a 1/2" I.D. hose.
•
2-PS users should follow the nozzle size recommendations found on the
“Estimated CFM Requirements” chart. Improper nozzle size and air
delivery hose I.D. in relation to your air compressor’s delivered CFM will
drastically affect the performance of your unit.
•
Performance Plus users should make sure not to overfill the unit with soda
blast media. The top hole on the pickup tube must be above the media level
to avoid clogging.
