Predominantly in the industrial sandblasting market, the # 6 nozzle is the most common followed closely by a # 7. This is 6/16^th or 3/8^th and 7/16^th size. When choosing a nozzle for sandblasting it is important to maintain to get the right size, you can maintain 100 psi at the nozzle. This means you base the size nozzle on your compressor and the work you have to do. To maintain 100 psi is very simple to calculate, cfm requirements and your air compressor. For example, there’s a table included on this page, which gives you the amount of cfm you need for each nozzle size. The other implication on nozzle size is how big of a blast pattern you want and how much you have to do. A smaller blast nozzle will have a smaller pattern and blast slower. So, if you have production and you have the right sized compressor, go as large as you can. The largest nozzle as a man can hold.

Testing a blast nozzle for wear is very simple using the right tool, a Nozzle Analyzer Gauge. This gauge is conical in nature and is inserted out the back of the nozzle and twisted to make a mark, so we can see how large the nozzle is. You can see more in our video or click directly to buy this product online.

BlastOne recommends for industrial sandblasting that blasters change their nozzle once it reaches to more than ½ size larger than the optimal nozzle size. That means if you’re blasting with a 7/16^th nozzle you should replace it before it gets to a 1/2-inch size. This is because maintaining the adequate pressure at the nozzle, 100 psi will give you your optimum blasting speeds and performance. Allowing your nozzles to wear out, will reduce your pressure, reduce your productivity and cost you more money in the long run. It’s cheaper to replace your nozzle.

Yes. It is important to maintain the blast hose to be 3 times the size of your blast nozzle. This means if you’re using a 3/8^th nozzle, you need to have at least an inch and a quarter blast hose. If you’re using a ½ inch nozzle, you need to use at least an inch and a half blast hose.

The most optimal blast nozzle thread for industrial sandblasters is the Coarse Contractor Thread as it does not jam in the nozzle holder. However, if you’re using a nozzle, using a small blast hose to get into a tight space, then you may want to use a medium thread nozzle holder and nozzle size.

A Tungsten Carbide blast nozzle lasts for about 200-250 hours of blasting. A Silica Nitride blast nozzle lasts for 400-500 hours. And Ultra-Tough and Snakebite blast nozzle typically last over 500 hours actual blasting.

Most industry guides recommend holding the blast nozzle between 12-18 inches away from the surface and maintaining a consistent angle, 90 degrees from the surface. This will give you the best angular, deep profile that will ensure your painting and coating will stick.