I keep getting asked about these sandblasters that have a vacuum cleaner connected to it. Basically, it’s a vacuum system similar to a shop vac that is configured to the sandblaster, and its main purpose is to suck the abrasive back to a container on top of the blaster. This way you don’t need a sandblasting cabinet.
It is a very nice setup because there is almost no mess. Sure, it will still create some dust and spit out abrasive, but it is amazingly cleaner.
Usually the vacuum hose connects onto the nozzle, and has a bristle brush that surrounds it to prevent abrasive from escaping.
Now where do you find these Vacuum Sandblasters?
I have only seen a few places that have sold them, but one place that I remember is called Etchmaster. This was a company created by a recognized glass etching instructor named Norm Dobbins.
Update: I have actually made my own sandblaster vac unit for the pressure pot system which is sometimes called a on-site sandblaster (See picture above). I wrote plans on how to make it easily and inexpensively here: https://www.sandblasterinfo.com/sandblaster-manual/on-site-plans/
If you have seen other places that have it, let me know in the comments section below.
Check out our Sandblasting Supplies
Gravity-Fed Sandblaster
Portable, Quick & Easy Setup
Unique Nozzle Holders & Hose Systems
Check out our Longer-Lasting Nozzle Tips
Select from ceramic or various carbides. Large C1 sizes & regular C2 sizes
The Vacuum blaster you describe is exactly like one I leased from SafteyKleen 15 years ago when I was refinishing small aircraft. It was the best process for cleaning the old finish from around the rivets.
I checked their site and SafterKleen no longer has them. Too bad because it was a great piece of work.
I worked for the company that made them for Safety-Kleen, 27+ years ago. Our unit had some issues, but there are some functional copies out there, Snap-On sells one, as well as Bad Boy Blasters, some others. Great way to refinish w/less mess. I’m shopping for one now to use in machine tool rebuilds
Glastar is another brand and an example of its use is on youtube title etching a glass door. That one will lead you to more info on the glastar. Top of the line.