If you use the pressure pot sandblaster, you may realize that most of the ball valves are usually made out of brass. Brass is a soft metal, and that works just fine for controlling the on/off flow of air to your tank.
But most of the companies making these units are installing brass valves where the abrasive touches also. Depending on your setup, the brass valves are installed at two high abrasive contact areas:
- abrasive metering valve
- nozzle valve
Brass valves in these areas tend to wear out fairly quickly and will need to be replaced. All too often, you may eventually find the abrasive dig out a small hole in the side of the valve. BUMMER!
It is one of the most frustrating things I encounter when I am in the middle of sandblasting a project. I have to stop what I am doing and waste another 20 minutes (or more if I have to go a store) to replace it.
Actual measurement of 3/8″ NPT fitting is about 5/8 inch wide.
My Recommendation: Replace Them with Steel Valves
Lately, I have decided to replace them with these steel sandblaster valves. They are the typically 3/8″ NPT size used on most sandblasters, but larger blasters may have 1/2″ NPT, so be sure to check.
It sounds odd, but the outer diameter of a 3/8″ NPT fitting should actually measure about 5/8 of an inch as shown. So be sure to measure it prior to ordering.
Where to Order Steel Valves
You can order these on Amazon in the link 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
Dear Sir,
Thank you for sharing this information.
Yes, I agree with replacing manually controlled brass materials valves to steel material, especially those coming
in contact (partially or fully) with the abrasive sands.
By the way, may I asked, what is the best suited blasting media to clean up stainless steel materials from hardened scale deposits WITHOUT damaging the material SMOOTH FINISH?
Appreciate your kind reply and attention on this query.
Thanks and regards,
Romeo MC
Surabaya, indonesia