How to choose the correct blasting nozzle size?

How to choose the correct sandblasting nozzle size?
How much air do you need for different size nozzles to maintain the needed pressure?
Every sandblaster operator knows - in order to work effectively and get the job done, you need to use the right sized nozzle. We want to clarify a little bit further - in order to sandblast the surface effectively you need to maintain at least around 6,5 - 7 bar pressure. To achieve and maintain this level of pressure you need to select the blast nozzle's size according to available compressed air capacity (m3/min).
Air and abrasive consumption in terms of compressed air pressure and sandblasting nozzle size
7 bar | 8,5 bar | ||
Nozzle diameter | Air consumption (m3/min) | 0,6 | 0,75 |
3,2 mm | Abrasive consumption (kg/h) | 54 | 61 |
Nozzle diameter | Air consumption (m3/min) | 1,3 | 1,7 |
4,8 mm | Abrasive consumption (kg/h) | 118 | 145 |
Nozzle diameter | Air consumption (m3/min) | 2,3 | 2,7 |
6,35 mm | Abrasive consumption (kg/h) | 227 | 306 |
Nozzle diameter | Air consumption (m3/min) | 4 | 5,4 |
8 mm | Abrasive consumption (kg/h) | 374 | 454 |
Nozzle diameter | Air consumption (m3/min) | 5,7 | 7,8 |
9,5 mm | Abrasive consumption (kg/h) | 499 | 612 |
Nozzle diameter | Air consumption (m3/min) | 7,3 | 8,9 |
11 mm | Abrasive consumption (kg/h) | 703 | 816 |
Nozzle diameter | Air consumption (m3/min) | 9,7 | 8,9 |
12,5 mm | Abrasive consumption (kg/h) | 919 | 1145 |
Nozzle diameter | Air consumption (m3/min) | 15,6 | 19,8 |
16 mm | Abrasive consumption (kg/h) | 1497 | 1814 |
Nozzle diameter | Air consumption (m3/min) | 22,7 | 31,2 |
19 mm | Abrasive consumption (kg/h) | 2132 | 2586 |