1、 Source control
The environmental challenge of quartz sand blasting technology first comes from its raw material - quartz sand itself. In order to reduce dust pollution from the source, we must carefully choose quartz sand. Choosing low dust quartz sand means choosing high-quality quartz sand that has been finely processed and has extremely low dust content. These quartz sands typically have a uniform particle size distribution and regular shape, which not only improves sandblasting efficiency but also reduces dust generation during the sandblasting process. In addition, we should pay attention to the moisture content of quartz sand, as an appropriate moisture content can help reduce the flying of dust. Meanwhile, the selection of suppliers is also crucial. We should choose suppliers with good reputation and environmental awareness to ensure that the purchased quartz sand meets environmental standards.
In terms of optimizing the sandblasting process, we can reduce the generation of dust by adjusting the various parameters of the sandblasting machine. The reasonable setting of parameters such as sandblasting pressure, sandblasting angle, and sand flow rate can enable quartz sand particles to remove stains in a more efficient way while reducing unnecessary dust generation. The control of sandblasting distance and speed is also crucial. Too close sandblasting distance and too high speed may cause local overspray, increasing the flying of dust; However, excessive sandblasting distance and low speed may reduce sandblasting efficiency. We should constantly explore and adjust in practical operations to find the optimal combination of sandblasting parameters.
2、 Process control
The capture and removal of dust during sandblasting are key to reducing dust pollution. The use of dust removal equipment is the core of this process. High efficiency dust removal equipment such as bag filters and cyclone dust collectors can effectively capture and remove dust particles from the air. These devices should be regularly maintained and cleaned to ensure their normal operation and efficient dust removal. At the same time, the selection of dust removal equipment should also be based on the specific situation of sandblasting operations, to avoid poor dust removal results caused by the mismatch between dust removal capacity and sandblasting operation scale.
Strengthening ventilation is another important means to reduce dust concentration. Good ventilation can accelerate air flow in the work area, thereby reducing dust concentration. The selection of ventilation methods should be based on the actual situation to avoid interference between ventilation airflow and sandblasting airflow, which can lead to dust dispersion. In the design of ventilation systems, we should fully consider the size and shape of the work area, as well as the specific location of sandblasting operations, to ensure maximum ventilation effect.
Personal protection is also an indispensable part of reducing dust pollution. Operators should wear personal protective equipment such as protective clothing, goggles, and dust masks to reduce the harm of dust to their bodies. The selection of these protective equipment should comply with relevant standards to ensure their protective effect. At the same time, we should regularly conduct health checks on operators to promptly detect and address health issues caused by dust exposure.
3、 End processing
If the dust and wastewater generated during sandblasting are not properly treated, they will cause serious secondary pollution to the environment. Dust collection and treatment are key links in end of pipe treatment. We should establish a comprehensive dust collection system to ensure that the dust generated during sandblasting can be collected uniformly. The collected dust can be reused after appropriate treatment, such as for other industrial production processes or as building materials. If the dust cannot be reused, it should be properly disposed of according to relevant regulations, such as being transported to designated landfills or incineration plants for harmless treatment.
Wastewater treatment is also an important component of end of pipe treatment. During sandblasting, wastewater containing suspended solids, organic matter, and other pollutants may be generated. We should ensure the completeness and normal operation of wastewater treatment facilities, and remove pollutants from wastewater through physical, chemical, or biological methods to meet discharge standards before discharge. The sludge and waste generated during the wastewater treatment process should also be properly treated in accordance with relevant regulations to avoid secondary pollution to the environment.
4、 Management and Supervision
In order to reduce dust pollution during quartz sand blasting, we also need to establish a sound management system. Establishing a sound management system means developing a comprehensive sandblasting operation management system, clarifying dust pollution control measures and responsible persons. These systems should include operational procedures for sandblasting operations, dust pollution control measures, regulations for the use of personal protective equipment, and emergency response plans. At the same time, we should regularly supervise and inspect sandblasting operations to ensure that all measures are effectively implemented.
Training and education are also important means to enhance the environmental awareness and operational skills of operators. We should strengthen the training and education of operators, so that they understand the hazards of dust pollution and prevention measures, and improve their self-protection ability. The training content should include the hazards of dust pollution, the use of personal protective equipment, the operation process of sandblasting operations, and emergency response measures. Through training and education, we can enhance the environmental awareness and operational skills of operators, thereby effectively reducing dust pollution.