We have a fully functional Sand Blaster (aka Media Blaster) again! And this is a huge upgrade in reliability and usability. I think people who use this will be very pleased with the new machine.
To use it, just turn on the air flow using the valve on the lower left side of the machine, then turn on the lights and the vacuum via switches up top. Put your item inside, then close both latches. (Only use it with the vacuum on and the lid fully latched!) The foot pedal activates the media flow.
You can pull more hose up from below around the front right corner, but it is a bit shorter than ideal; we will get longer hoses shortly.
When you are removing your item, beware of spilling media where you might inhale it. Give the lid a good tap to dislodge any media on it before you open it. Media also tends to accumulate around the front seal. You can actually blow some of that off before you open the machine. Let the vacuum run for at least 30 seconds after stopping the media flow to clear the air more. Even then, I would recommend great care and/or breathing protection when opening the lid after use. The aluminum oxide media we use it much less dangerous than other media options, but you still do not want to breathe it! Please clean up any spilled media.
When you are done, turn off the lights and vacuum, and turn off the air pressure via the valve at the lower left. Please remember to do the latter, as the pedal has a slight air leak which would put needless strain on the compressed air system if the valve is left open.
The media inside is an 80 grit aluminum oxide media. We have more when needed to replace the gradual losses that naturally occur. We do not intend to allow media changes at this time.
We will put additional information on the Asmbly wiki in the near future.
We owe huge thanks to Robert Wierzbowski @Robe; he went way above and beyond to make this new unit work, despite several setbacks. This would not have happened without his persistent effort. We also owe thanks to JD Murphy @phurfphurf, who saw an opportunity and grabbed the new unit’s body at an auction for us. Joe Ngo @JoeN and Al Watson @atwatsoniii also helped in getting the new unit set up.