Technical Guide for Abrasive Blasting Nozzle Selection: What Every Contractor Needs to Know
In industrial sandblasting operations, choosing the right nozzle makes a substantial difference in productivity, operational efficiency, and costs. This guide is designed to help contractors, engineers, and supervisors make informed technical decisions when selecting abrasive blasting nozzles, with an emphasis on field airblast surface preparation equipment.
1. Why is the nozzle so important?
The nozzle controls the speed, coverage, and efficiency of the abrasive stream. It directly affects:
Air consumption (CFM)
Productivity per m²/hour
Abrasive consumption per m²
Operator fatigue
Equipment lifespan
2. Technical selection criteria
a. Nozzle size
Measured by internal diameter (#4 to #8).
The larger the size, the greater the airflow and abrasive output—but also higher CFM requirements.
b. Flow type
Long Venturi: Enhances abrasive acceleration and impact pattern.
Double Venturi: Increases coverage, reduces turbulence and back thrust.
c. Liner material
Tungsten Carbide: Balance between durability and cost. Recommended for general use.
Boron Carbide: Lasts up to 10 times longer. Ideal for mineral abrasives and large-scale projects.
SiAlON Ceramic: Lighter. Less durable but ergonomically friendly.
d. Outer jacket type
Polyurethane (P or AP): High impact resistance. Ideal for field use.
Metal (brass or zinc): Lower cost, recommended for controlled environments.
3. Key comparisons
Durability vs. Cost
A boron nozzle may cost 2.5 to 3 times more than a tungsten one but can last up to 10 times longer.
The cost per durability unit is lower with boron, reducing downtime and improving overall efficiency.
Productivity
For the same nozzle size (#6, for example):
Long Venturi: 12 to 16 m²/h
Double Venturi: 15 to 20 m²/h
That means up to 25% more productivity with Double Venturi.
Abrasive consumption per m²
With Long Venturi #6: ~34 kg/m²
With Double Venturi #6: ~27 kg/m²
Better coverage lowers unit consumption.
4. Recommendations for large projects
Real case: 70,000 m² of 2-meter diameter piping
Recommended: #6 or #7 nozzles
If budget allows: BLVE-6AP or BLVE-7AP (Boron Carbide + Polyurethane)
Balanced alternative: TLVE-6AP or T125-6 (Tungsten with solid productivity)
Double Venturi improves coverage and reduces operator fatigue.
5. Available materials for Double Venturi
Tungsten: Yes (T125 series)
SiAlON (ceramic): Yes (SN125 series)
Boron: Not available in Double Venturi due to structural limitations
6. Final recommendation for contractors
Before choosing based on price, consider:
Project duration
Frequency of nozzle changes
Cost of downtime for replacements
Performance per kg of abrasive
A well-selected nozzle can reduce operating costs by up to 30%, improve operator morale, and deliver a better surface preparation result.
For personalized advice, contact us. At Aplika, we’re experts in high-performance industrial sandblasting equipment and nozzle selection.
