How to sandblast aluminum wheels

Blasting aluminum wheels is an effective way to remove old paint, corrosion, and other surface imperfections. However, aluminum is a soft metal, so it requires careful handling to avoid damage. Thus sandblasting is more suited for aluminium wheels than shot blasting, as shot blasting is much forceful. For sandblasting, there are wet blasting, dry blasting, which is more appropriate, Let's have a comprehensive analysis.

Dry Blasting or Wet Blasting Aluminum Wheels

If dry blasting aluminum wheels, the common step is abrasive blasting first and then polish the surface. After this, the surface can be painted or coated. 

If wet blasting aluminium wheels, the blasting time is greatly reduced, and the polishing step is eliminated completely, as wet blasting involves the water mixed with abrasives, making the surfaces more smoother and brighter. Moreover, it combined the force direct pressure blasting with wet blasting.

Another obvious advantage of wet blasting aluminum wheels is dustless, with the flushing action of the water, wet blasting eliminates a lot of the embedded media particles that you find with dry blasting. 

But to be honest, wet blasted producs are more easily to get rust, thus, painting or powder coating should be done quickly to eliminate any chances of oxidation.

As a sandblasting cabinets supplier, we services a lot of customers for preparing aluminium wheels, according the feedbacks, dry blasting cabinet and wet blasting cabinet are all excellent choices. For dry blasting, most clients are very glad to choose our automatic turntable blast cabinet.

Choosing the Right Sandblasting Media

The abrasive media for blasting aluminimum profiles most often used is glass beads, aluminium oxide or walnut shells. Steel shot or steel grit should be avoided. Steel is harder than aluminum, and can create a corrision or damage.

If you are stripping rust or old paint from aluminum wheels then add new paint or powder coating, aluminum oxide is good choice. These will leave a anchor profile, which will allow the new coating to grip to the aluminum substrate.
If the goal is to achieve a polished look, glass beads will be your best choice. If you dry blast, you may still need to polish the surface after the blasting is finished.

Guide of Sandblasting Aluminum Wheels

Here’s a step-by-step guide to sandblast aluminum wheels safely and effectively:

Materials and Tools Needed

1. Sandblaster: A cabinet design sandblasting machine (wet or dry)

2. Abrasive Media: Use a fine, soft abrasive like glass beads, crushed walnut shells, or aluminum oxide (avoid coarse media to prevent pitting).

3. Protective Gear: Safety goggles, respirator, gloves, and protective clothing.

4. Air Compressor: Ensure it has sufficient pressure (typically 60-100 PSI for aluminum).

5. Cleaning Supplies: Degreaser, soap, water, and a soft brush. (optional)

6. Masking Materials: Tape and plastic to protect areas you don’t want to blast (e.g., valve stem, wheel hub).

7. Workspace: A well-ventilated area or sandblasting cabinet.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Prepare the Wheels

• Remove the Wheels: Take the wheels off the vehicle.

• Clean the Wheels: Use a degreaser and soapy water to remove dirt, grease, and brake dust. Rinse thoroughly and let them dry.

• Mask Off Areas: Cover the valve stem, lug nut holes, and any other areas you don’t want to blast with tape or plastic.

2. Set Up the Sandblaster

• Choose the Right Media: For aluminum, recommend glass beads, crushed walnut shells, or aluminum oxide

• Adjust Pressure: Set the air compressor to a lower pressure (50-70 PSI) to avoid damaging the aluminum.

• Test the Blaster: Test the sandblaster on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure the media and pressure are appropriate.

3. Sandblast the Wheels

• Work in Sections: Blast one section of the wheel at a time, holding the nozzle 6-12 inches away from the surface.

• Use Even Strokes: Move the nozzle in a consistent, sweeping motion to avoid uneven spots or over-blasting.

• Check Progress: Periodically stop to inspect the surface. Avoid over-blasting, as it can thin or warp the aluminum.

4. Clean the Wheels After Sandblasting (if use dry blasting)

• Remove Residual Media: Use compressed air or a soft brush to remove any remaining abrasive media.

• Wipe Down: Clean the wheels with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris.

5. Finish the Wheels

• Polish or Paint: After sandblasting, you can polish the wheels for a raw aluminum look or apply primer and paint for a finished appearance.

• Seal the Surface: Apply a clear coat or sealant to protect the aluminum from oxidation and corrosion.

Safety Tips

• Always wear a respirator and safety goggles to protect yourself from airborne particles.

• Work in a well-ventilated area or use a sandblasting cabinet to contain the dust.

• Avoid using harsh abrasives like steel grit, as they can damage the aluminum.

By following these steps, you can safely and effectively sandblast aluminum wheels to restore their appearance.