Metal is a core material in industrial manufacturing, automotive applications, architectural structures, and everyday engineered products. While metals are strong, they are not immune to rust, corrosion, oxidation, and weather damage. Without proper preparation and finishing, even premium-grade metal surfaces can deteriorate faster than expected.
This is why sandblasting has remained one of the most important and reliable methods for surface preparation. It ensures that metal surfaces are perfectly cleaned, textured, and ready for long-lasting protective coatings such as powder coating, paint, and specialty industrial finishes.
What is Sandblasting & Why It Matters
Sandblasting, or abrasive blasting, propels abrasive media against metal at high pressure to remove:
- Rust & corrosion
- Old paint and powder coating
- Oxidation layers
- Dirt, grease & contaminants
- Welding scale
- Rough surface imperfections
By stripping metal down to a clean and properly-profiled surface, sandblasting ensures coatings adhere flawlessly and deliver maximum durability.
At Sundial Powder Coating, this preparation method plays a critical role in delivering high-performance protective finishes that stand the test of time.
The Real Reason Metal Coatings Fail
The biggest cause of coating failure is NOT the coating material it’s poor surface preparation.
Problems caused by inadequate prep include:
- Coating peeling and lifting
- Rust growing beneath the coating
- Coating cracking or bubbling
- Uneven finish and dull appearance
- Reduced lifespan of metal parts
Studies show that over 70% of coating failures result from improper surface preparation. Sandblasting solves this by creating the perfect foundation for coatings to bond securely.
How Sandblasting Improves Metal Protection
Removes corrosion completely
Eliminates rust and oxidation at the surface and microscopic layers
Cleans deeply
Removes oils, dust, grease, and chemical residue that weaken coating adhesion
Creates anchor profile
Provides micro-texture so coatings mechanically bond to metal
Maximizes coating durability
Prevents future flaking, cracking, and corrosion spread
Improves appearance
Gives a clean, uniform surface for smooth finishing
This prep work ensures that finishes applied by Sundial Powder Coating are not just beautiful — but engineered for long-term performance.
Types of Abrasives Used in Sandblasting
Different metals and industries require specific abrasive media:
| Abrasive | Benefit |
| Garnet | Fast, clean cut, environment-friendly |
| Aluminum Oxide | Tough metals, deep cleaning |
| Glass Beads | Smooth, satin-finish for aluminum & stainless steel |
| Steel Grit | Heavy industrial-scale removal |
| Walnut Shell / Plastic Media | Delicate finishing |
This flexibility allows specialists like Sundial Powder Coating to tailor the blasting process to each material and finish type.
Industries That Rely on Sandblasting
- Automotive restoration
- Industrial machinery
- Architectural steel & gates
- Marine & offshore fabrication
- Construction & metal structures
- Aerospace components
- Furniture & interior metalwork
- Pipes, frames, fencing, metal fixtures
Whether restoring a classic car frame or preparing structural steel, sandblasting delivers clean, strong, and reliable results.
Sandblasting vs Other Cleaning Methods
| Method | Depth | Speed | Adhesion Quality |
| Manual sanding | Low | Slow | Weak |
| Chemical stripping | Medium | Medium | Moderate |
| Grinding tools | Medium | Medium | Uneven |
| Sandblasting | High | Fast | Strongest |
Sandblasting is unmatched when it comes to total contaminant removal and coating longevity.
Environment-Safe & Controlled Process
Modern facilities like Sundial Powder Coating use controlled blasting chambers, advanced ventilation, and recycle-friendly media. This ensures:
- Worker safety
- Dust-controlled operations
- Eco-friendly surface preparation
- Consistent results on every project
This controlled approach ensures clean and safe metal treatment every time.
Final Thoughts: Strong Finishes Start With Strong Preparation
Sandblasting is not optional it is essential. The strength, life, and performance of any metal coating depend heavily on how well the surface is prepared first.
With professional sandblasting:
- Coatings bond better
- Surfaces resist corrosion longer
- Finished products look premium
- Maintenance costs reduce over time
- Metal structures withstand weather, chemicals & abrasion
If you’re seeking durable, high-quality metal finishing, always confirm that sandblasting is part of the process.
For flawless preparation and industry-grade protection, Sundial Powder Coating continues to be a trusted name in metal finishing excellence.