Module 1: Abrasive Blasting Fundamentals¶
Module ID: U10-M1-SBST Title: Abrasive Blasting Fundamentals Duration: 2.5 hours Prerequisite: Unit 10 orientation complete, respiratory health questionnaire submitted
Module Overview¶
Module 1 establishes the foundational physics, hazard landscape, and equipment architecture of abrasive blasting operations. Learners will understand how abrasive media interact with material surfaces, the critical distinction between silica and non-silica media, the anatomy of blasting cabinet systems, and the compressed air supply requirements that power the entire operation.
Learning Outcomes¶
By the end of this module, learners will:
Knowledge: - Explain the physics of abrasive blasting (kinetic energy transfer, material removal rate) - Describe media types (silica, glass beads, aluminum oxide, steel shot, walnut shell, corn cob) and their material properties - Understand the silicosis hazard and why crystalline silica is uniquely dangerous - Identify major components of a blasting cabinet system - Explain how compressed air systems work and why proper air quality is essential
Skills: - Select appropriate media for a specific material and aesthetic goal - Inspect a blasting cabinet for safety and operational readiness - Evaluate air system quality (moisture, particulate) - Set up a basic blasting station with media and dust collection
Competencies: - Make informed media selection decisions based on hazard profile and performance - Understand the risk-benefit trade-offs between media types - Recognize cabinet maintenance needs that affect safety
Module Structure¶
| Slide | Title | Topics |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Physics of Abrasive Blasting | Kinetic energy, material removal, surface texture |
| 2 | Media Types & Hazard Hierarchy | Silica vs. alternatives, cost-benefit analysis |
| 3 | Silicosis Hazard Deep Dive | Crystalline silica mechanism, latency, cumulative exposure |
| 4 | Cabinet Anatomy & Dust Collection | Chamber, nozzle, media circulation, HEPA filtration |
| 5 | Compressed Air Systems | Air quality, moisture control, regulators, pressure |
Assessment Criteria¶
- Knowledge quiz: 12 questions, 80% pass threshold
- Media selection scenarios: Classify 5 situations with appropriate media choice + hazard justification
- Cabinet inspection checklist: Identify 3+ maintenance issues in pre-operation inspection