The key to matching a sandblasting machine with an air compressor air storage tank lies in matching the air flow rate (CFM) and pressure.
The crucial point is that the air storage tank should be as large as possible, the power of the air compressor should be sufficient (the larger, the better), and a dryer (air purifier) should be equipped to ensure a stable, dry, and water-free air source during the sandblasting process. This is to avoid low sandblasting efficiency, sand blockage, and even affect the quality of the workpiece. Especially for the suction type, a large flow rate is required; for the pressurized type/high-pressure type, a higher-powered air compressor that matches should be selected.
Core pairing principle
1. Flow Control Maximization (CFM): The sandblasting machine is highly gas-consuming and requires an air flow rate far exceeding that of a tire inflator. When choosing an air compressor, pay attention to its air production capacity (CFM/m³/min) which must meet the minimum requirements of the sandblasting machine per nozzle.
2. Pressure Matching: The sandblasting machine typically operates at a pressure of around 0.8 Mpa. For the gravity-fed (siphon) sandblasting machine, the air compressor must produce at least 1 m³/min (approximately 7.5 kW), for the pressurized type, 2 m³/min (approximately 15 kW), and for the high-pressure type, 3 m³/min (approximately 22 kW) or more.
3. Air Storage Tank is a Stabilizer: The air storage tank stores air and buffers the uneven air production from the air compressor, ensuring the sandblasting machine continuously receives a stable air source and preventing fluctuations in pressure.
4. Drying is Essential: The compressed air produced by the air compressor contains moisture and oil. An air dryer must be installed to remove the moisture and prevent the sand from caking and blocking the sand gun, ensuring the sandblasting effect.
Matching Guide Steps
1. Determine the type of sandblasting machine: is it a gravity (siphon) type or a pressurized/high-pressure type?
2. Calculate the required flow rate: Refer to the manual of the sandblasting machine to determine the minimum total CFM/m³/min required for a single gun or multiple guns.
3. Select a matching air compressor: Purchase an air compressor with a gas output higher than the required flow rate by 20%-30%. Choose a larger one rather than a smaller one to leave some margin.
4. Equip with sufficient air storage tanks: Select an air storage tank with a large enough capacity (for example, more than 100L), preferably larger and more than the calculated minimum value.
5. Add a dryer and purifier: Connect the air compressor, air storage tank, dryer, filter (water/oil) in series to ensure that the air entering the sandblasting machine is clean and dry.
In simple terms: “Size” is key! A large-capacity air compressor, a large-capacity storage tank, and a reliable dryer are essential to fully unleash the power of your sandblasting machine and significantly increase its efficiency!
Post time: Jan-22-2026
