DIY Budget Vapor Blasting Cabinet

In this video i build a budget Vapor Blasting Cabinet out of a sandblasting cabinet and some items purchased from amazon. Below i have listed links to the items on amazon as well as the costs in Canadian dollars at time of the build. You may be able to find these parts for less. You will also need a good compressor. To run a vapor blaster you should have machine that can provide 15CFM @ 40-60 working psi. If you have an air compressor that is smaller than a 5hp you can run a vapor blasting machine just not for extended periods of time. My compressor is a 2hp 30 gallon.
Total cost $397 + taxes = $444.64 cad
Used sandblast cabinet from Market place or craigslist- $100
5 gallon pail from Canadian tire - $5
Foot pedal - $32 www.amazon.ca/Pneumatic-Posit...
Air line - $30 www.amazon.ca/Solution4patio-...
Tubing - $17 www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B004...
Check valve - $15 www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01M...
Blast nozzle - $30 www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B097...
Glass beads - $40 www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B07H...
Pump - $86 www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B08B...
Hose clamps - $2
Various PVC fittings - $20 Rona
Spray can Flex seal - $20 Canadian tire
UPGRADE
Casters - $47 www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B08D...

[@angrysweet8932]

There may be many videos on this topic, but yours is by far the best one. Great job man ! Regards from Spain.

[@masterofnonetv8361]

I put a wiper on mine that was a universal kit for a side by side utv and powered with a 24 amp computer inverter, had to mod the wiper arm though, this coupled with a bright led light from harborfreight that I just set on the glass so it shines directly down on the part and good pair of solid rubber gloves from ebay. These things made my cabinet a dream to operate!

[@TNTMOTO]

Can you link me the gloves

[@eastcoastpalominocollector3970]

I like the idea of making a cheaper vaper hone. That said I actually went out and bought a vapor hone that was made specially for vapor honing, and this is why. A steel cabinet and a steel work grate will rust. It doesn't sound like a big deal, but the small particles of rust and steel get into the slurry and you force it through the tip with the rest of your media. Basically contaminating your media and impregnating it into the aluminum part that you are trying to restore. I would recommend people buy an abs plastic cabinet for this reason. They are available and not that expensive. That's my only recommendation. Your conversion looks great , and your video is very good. 👍

[@Moto-MX96]

Any links for a plastic cabinet

[@Kendrick_Tiller]

Great video Iv been contemplating building one for projects this winter and you just sold me on it!

[@patrickgab4230]

Thank you very much from Austria for your Video! Nice that you share your idea of an DIY Vapour Blaster. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@zx10danny1]

Very cool! You going to really make your project bikes pop now!

[@elementjob]

Easiest vapor blasting build video i ever saw! Goodjob!

[@jwald6795]

Man thanks for showing this. I'm going to make one of these. I have a bead blaster but I think I'll keep it and buy a different cabinet so I can have both .

[@johnmcdonald489]

It’s a cool build. Straight to the point, easy to follow. Thank you.

[@TNTMOTO]

Thanks for watching

[@johnanderson7988]

I already upgraded my Clarke beadblast cabinet but like some others I think I'll look for a used cabinet and make this one. I have a buddy that has a shop that repairs MX bikes and he has small vapor blast cabinet (microhone?) that does amazing work. I like your idea and it has more capacity at that. Thanks for sharing. I also restore MX bikes. Primarily from to 70's era.

[@tobygathergood4990]

I'm in BC, (Thompson-Okanagan) as well. I buy quite a lot from Princess. Well done on the build! I've been meaning to put together a wet media blast cabinet for some time. Hopefully this spring will see it done.

[@homemadetools]

Nice job. We shared this video on our homemade tools forum this week 😎

[@stevebloke5455]

Nice one that's going to come in handy, it's amazing how these machines make aluminium look new again. Thanks for posting it was rather interesting. Keep up the good work.

[@TNTMOTO]

Thankyou for watching

[@pierrelarocque3214]

Bravo. Keep it simple. Great success. Magnifique. Hard to do better and simpler. Bravo again.

[@DennisonsThe]

That works well! Way to go! Much easier way to clean aluminum parts!

[@MrSillypoptart]

Amazing work! Im going to make one just like this!

[@e.a.7265]

This is awesome. Just what I am looking for. Thank you for this video.

[@TNTMOTO]

Glad i could help

[@lancesmeal8853]

Thx for the vid. Picking up a nice blaster this week n I'll use ur vid to convert it....

[@TNTMOTO]

Awesome. Hope everything goes smooth and you can began you vapor blasting right away.

[@kensartisticflowsacrylicpo8686]

been wanting to get a dry blast but i may convert it to a wet blast. great vid by the way.

[@12bmxdude12]

i am going to build one myself, thanks for sharing!

[@TNTMOTO]

If you can find a used seamless blast cabinet it is even better.

[@geneva760]

Well done. CHEERS from AUSTRALIA.

[@jackydacunha294]

Thank uou for this video guy!!

[@geofffagg3855]

Great video.

[@lawrenceveinotte]

Good job.

[@coloradodirtbike5930]

I'm about to build one as well.

[@chandler__21]

Very nice I’ll eventually come back to this when I’m ready to make one of these. The only troubling this is having a compressor big enough to run it. Which I suppose you could use a small compressor and take your time. I wouldn’t use it 24/7 anyways it would be nice to clean engine cases with.

[@TNTMOTO]

I use a 30 gallon. Just takes more time.

[@billl7551]

Yeah you have some technical build issues, but well done video on the topic!! All novices should come here first!!! Most complete and to the point on a DIY build. I hope you come back with the details of issues, and solutions. Keep us informed on techniques for media/water ratio and pump durability. Super good to have a component listing. Thumbs UP!

[@TNTMOTO]

Only issue I am having is the box leaks like crazy. The original assembler did not seal anything. And my sealing job did not help much. The vapor blasting part is awesome. All my parts come out looking amazing. I am planning to upgrade to a welded seemless blast box.

[@billl7551]

@@TNTMOTO I saw that leak. Polysulfone sealant will fix that - it is aircraft fuel tank sealant(2- part). $65 for a quart at Vans Aircraft. Thanks for a fast reply!

[@Kx5hundo]

Oh thats cool

[@DTRB56]

When pushing pipe over a fitting and it’s difficult/tight. Dip the end of the pipe into a mug of freshly boiled water for 30 seconds.before pushing over the fitting.

[@TNTMOTO]

will do thankyou

[@abcanimal]

@@TNTMOTO also its a good idea to use pvc cement primer. It's usually a purple dye the you put on the fitting before putting on the cement.

[@jayflow7949]

Yes This is A Very Handy Trick Especially With Cars I’ve Even Used The Heat From The Hot Exhaust Manifold & The Cars Cigarette Lighter, Even a Match Works At The Right Distance Away By Using The Heat Without Catching The Rubber On Fire… 🔥🤦‍♂️🔥🤷‍♂️😂😂😂

[@Marc757]

Looks like a nissin rear caliper bracket off a 90-94 Honda CR :D

[@TNTMOTO]

89 :)

[@PremixandPedals]

Great video...Best one I have seen for this type of build! I just need a garage so I can build one. One question...what size compressor are you using to run that?

[@TNTMOTO]

30 gallon 2hp

[@HooligansMx]

The one I ordered wasn't to bad. It's not big enough to fit a frame in but bug enough to do just about everything else on the bike I thunk I paid about $1000 and already had an air compressor but the unit I bought only needs a 5-10cfm air compressor

[@exemjazhuel3428]

the HTMR gun is a must will speed the job

[@adamh3470]

Awesome work TNT. The more you can do at home the better,not waiting for other people and you can get the results you want. What psi did you have on the compressor?

[@TNTMOTO]

135 psi max

[@Mr.Winston]

Very cool. Just picked up a sandblasting cabinet for some bike builds I’ve got coming up. I was wondering if it was possible to convert it to a vapour blaster because the results look fantastic and softer on the aluminium parts. I know what I’m doing this weekend! 👍

[@TNTMOTO]

Awesome. Glad to hear this helps you out.

[@tomek860]

Great DIY👍👍 what aircompressor have you used?

[@TNTMOTO]

30 gallon Mastercraft 155 psi 1.9hp. Bought it used 8 years ago. Still working. I have to wait for it to catch up but I got it on marketplace for $150. 60 gallon 5hp is the way to gonif you want continuous air and no wait time. 80 gallon is the way to go for business.

[@gustafgunnarsson2478]

Nice video! How Did you get the hose from the pump thru the cabinet? Drill a hole with a fitting?

[@TNTMOTO]

Fed it up through the bottom. But a fitting or hole would be better in the long run.

[@suedehayes1817]

Great video. I was wondering how well this works on an aluminum gasket surface. Does it damage it or does it leave a good surface to seal on.

[@TNTMOTO]

I think it would be fine.

[@sacbmw]

Sir, your video is excellent. Thanks for freely sharing your knowledge and experience. I think I’m getting the full understanding of what’s going on. In dry blasting, you siphon your media by pumping air thru a venturi. In this case you pump the ‘media' unto that same port on the gun and you get flow all of the time. When you add air, you get the media to work. More pressure gets more work done faster, but the media breaks down faster. And this process is incredibly clean, other than struggling with a leaky cabinet. 😜 One thing that you originally mentioned, but has not come up once, is the use of a vacuum cleaner. It’s not clear to me why vacuum would be necessary. Did you end up using that port you put in the back? Also, how did your plastic covered window work out? I use those in my dry cabinet, but I’m hoping they might not be required. Along those lines, can you see very well while working or is some frequent window cleaner or spraying required? Lastly, do you just play it by ear when it’s time to change your media? I lied, one more thing: can you reconfirm the mix of beads to water that you’ve settled on? Thanks a heap for your contribution.

[@TNTMOTO]

I don't use a particular ratio of bead but is probably around 15%. No vacuum. A wiper on the inside would be very helpful and better lighting. I will be upgrading to a stainless cabinet when I can make one bur for now this does what I need at a minimal cost.

[@jarnosaarinen4583]

Nice job, might be good to raise it up? looks like my back wouldn't like it for very long!

[@TNTMOTO]

Yes it would be better to have it raised I plan on adding extensions at some point.

[@jarnosaarinen4583]

@@TNTMOTO Thanks for the Video I am going to give it a go! Cheers!!

[@ryanstone8209]

What are the advantages of this versus just using it as a sandblaster or other abrasive media? Thank you for the video, well done.

[@TNTMOTO]

Vapor blasting gives soft metals a very finished polished look. It is great for aluminum. Regular blasting is great for rust and paint removal to prep for paint or powder coating.

[@ryanstone8209]

@@TNTMOTO I have a sand blasting cabinet and occasionally blast rust off, but I haven't shot aluminum (though I would expect it to be course as you mention with sand). Wasn't sure if glass bead or other media would clean it without "etching" it, but this is the obvious solution. Once again good job on the video and thank you for the explanation!

[@Galaxiiee02]

Just picked up a steal on facebook! $50 blasting cabinet so now im following your vid as a how to. So with the 40-60psi, does setting the psi lower mean it’s harder to clean the part? And the higher you go on psi the more it removes that shiny finish?

[@TNTMOTO]

Higher psi leaves a rougher surface lower psi smooths it out

[@trevorhillard7760]

Is it possible to use the nozzle that comes with the cabinet, or does it not work as well as the one you show for wet blasting?

[@TNTMOTO]

It will not work very well

[@rucciolo1]

Buonasera,che pressione bar/psi serve come aria?

[@hbseth1867]

Check valve is necessary? I mean, we have constant air pressure while in use... If water creeps back it just gets blown out when you use it next, right?

[@TNTMOTO]

It's not just water. It's a glass bead slurry. It's a long distance between the gun and your foot pedal. The slurry pump is always running. I don't thing the slurry would be good for the pedal. The check valve is a very cheap equipment safety feature.

[@transmitterguy478]

How long does the blasting media last? Approx in Canadian hours.😎

[@TNTMOTO]

A long time as long as you watch your pressures. And it can be cleaned. Also you need to keep everything clean before you blast it.

[@laautiquiroz3086]

hello, will it work for a long period of time with a 4hp 14CFM compressor? Thank you

[@TNTMOTO]

at what psi are you getting 14cfm?

[@xxxmikeyjock]

@@TNTMOTO mine will do 11scfm at 100psi according to the label and they call it a "5hp" , it feeds my sand blast cabinet really well. he likely has something similar and would run your conversion close to 100% duty

[@chrisheath7500]

what SCFM compressor are you using? I have this entire setup ready but my compressor is too small. Also where did you get the air control pedal? Nice job, makes me feel way better about my system.

[@TNTMOTO]

there are links to everything in the description i am using a 30 gallon compressor running at a regulated 40 to 60 psi. i cant remember what the cfm is but its not great. 7.7 cfm at 40psi

[@chrisheath7500]

@@TNTMOTO Thank you!!!!

[@TNTMOTO]

@@chrisheath7500 no problem.

[@firebird14420]

Can you just use water?? Thanks 👍 great job!!

[@TNTMOTO]

With no abrasive? No

[@astroman1159]

Do you have the sizes for the pvc fittings can’t seem to figure what ones to buy

[@TNTMOTO]

I will have to get back to you. Basically I bought the pump first. Then I took the threaded fitting to the hardware store and matched everything up.

[@mgamgc]

Nice video, thanks. I have made one using your instrucitons and don't get any significant abrasion, despite correct flow and 60psi pressure. I have 2 cups of glass beads in 1.5 gal of water. Is it worth trying some garnet instead of the glass beads? Does anyone have any suggestions on how to fix/improve the action?

[@TNTMOTO]

What metal are you blasting?

[@mgamgc]

@@TNTMOTO aluminium, so it should be working.

[@TNTMOTO]

@@mgamgc yes that is strange. do you have the water and air hooked up to the right ports on the gun?

[@mgamgc]

@@TNTMOTO I think so - I have tried both options. The air directly into the back fitting caused blow back into the pump so I switched to having the water flowing straight into the handle with the air into the side port. The water flow does seem to be overpowered by the air flow after a second of blasting, so there may be a problem inside the nozzle. I've had it apart and can't see anything obvious.

[@TNTMOTO]

@@mgamgc it's the nozzle. Open it up and remove the rubber piece

[@cyber_Dean]

How long did that bit take?

[@TNTMOTO]

couple of minutes. Its not a fast process. but the end results are very rewarding.

[@bobbys2160]

the blast tip is unavailable at amazon. who is it made by so i can find a alternative blast gun thanks

[@TNTMOTO]

I believe this is the same one www.amazon.ca/HOLDWIN-Blasting-Carbide-Sandblaster-Stainless/dp/B07X4C9R1M/ref=sr_1_10?keywords=vapor+blast+nozzle&qid=1676928918&sr=8-10

[@astroman1159]

Is there anyway to filter out that water and reuse it

[@TNTMOTO]

The water is in a loop from the bucket to the cabinet. It does not get wasted. It winds up evaporating when not in use.

[@davecox900]

What size CFM compressor are you using ?

[@TNTMOTO]

i am using a 30 gallon compressor running at a regulated 40 to 60 psi. 7.7 cfm at 40psi

[@davecox900]

@@TNTMOTO ok that’s ok I have a compressor it’s 14.7 cfm so I should be ok with that I thought you needed 30 + For some reason

[@TNTMOTO]

@@davecox900 I have to let mine catch up. Yours you be able to run continually.

[@NguyenMinhTamQL63]

Hi! What pressure does this machine need?

[@TNTMOTO]

20 to 60

[@NguyenMinhTamQL63]

@@TNTMOTO ❤️

[@terrytanner6341]

What gun did you buy?

[@cuerammer]

Look under "Blast Nozzle" in the links he gave. Click "SHOW MORE" at the bottom of his video.

[@TNTMOTO]

Just a cheap gun off amazon. its in the video description

[@koltont1959]

what psi do you use

[@TNTMOTO]

40-60 for the initial blasting. then 10-20 from further away for the smoothing out.

[@koltont1959]

@@TNTMOTO ok thank you

[@matiastorres6356]

Buenas noche con cuanto de precion de aire se usa

[@TNTMOTO]

40 to 60. Too much pressure and the beads will break

[@samboiii9473]

Can you share more information on the pvc fittings or links?

[@TNTMOTO]

Just picked them up at my local hardware store. took the fitting from the pump in with me and found a pvc that fit.

[@samboiii9473]

What are the caps that you put in that screw into each other

[@TNTMOTO]

@@samboiii9473 Are you referring to the white reducers or the grey barb hose adapter?

[@samboiii9473]

@@TNTMOTOthe screw in things at 10:56-11:08 in the video and the grey fittings as well haha sorry I’m asking a million questions that’s just the last part of my build

[@TNTMOTO]

@@samboiii9473 no problem. those where reducers to get the size down for the grey barb fittings. took me from i believe 1 1/4 inch down to a 1/2 inch barb fitting

[@koenvermeulen3973]

Thanks a lot for this video ! I did almost the same build but do not get the result u've got. Could you please help me out

[@TNTMOTO]

Sure , What pump did you buy? What gun? What media? And what material are you using it on?

[@koenvermeulen3973]

@@TNTMOTO made a stupid mistake by switching the water supply to the air and reverse... Tried it today and now i get a result. Not yet what i want but we are coming close. I currently have a pump with 7m3/h but i've ordered a bigger one. What pressure do you use? I read that 70 psi is the max for the glass beads?

[@TNTMOTO]

@@koenvermeulen3973 I regulate between 10 and 60 depending on what finish I am going for

[@koenvermeulen3973]

@@TNTMOTO thank you! And the waterflow stays the same? You just play with the air pressure?

[@TNTMOTO]

@@koenvermeulen3973 yes waterflow stays the same

[@Projectchasingthewild]

Your link to the nozzle is no longer working .. what kind of nozzle do you recommend?

[@TNTMOTO]

www.amazon.ca/HOLDWIN-Blasting-Carbide-Sandblaster-Stainless/dp/B07X4C9R1M/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=38F464FDDUABI&keywords=blast+nozzle&qid=1689379393&sprefix=blast+nozzle%2Caps%2C175&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1

[@TNTMOTO]

Make sure to remove the rubber piece inside the nozzle

[@richardepps8500]

Wish you could have shown the thing blasting...

[@TNTMOTO]

I will be updating my cabinet soon. The internals will be the same. I will show blasting at that time.

[@TNTMOTO]

I do have some video of it running on my CR500 restoration videos

[@koko-cf9uu]

Hello Help you please me (You making what powder name)

[@TNTMOTO]

The glass bead?

[@koko-cf9uu]

Thank you., 💕

[@cm5838]

I’m guessing princess auto = harbor freight

[@TNTMOTO]

yes

[@200xcBruce]

I like to heat tubing instead of struggling with it.

[@TNTMOTO]

This is true.

[@UniqueChannel654654]

Don't use contact cement to connect PVC. Use PVC glue after primer.

[@TNTMOTO]

Good point. I said contact cement in the video but it is pvc cement that I used.

[@JoseOrtiz-zx8sf]

That's not vapor, just water :).

[@TNTMOTO]

It is water combined with air. Industry has named it "Vapor honing" or "Vapor blasting"

[@JoseOrtiz-zx8sf]

@@TNTMOTO Wish I had known about it before I sold my blast cabinet a year ago, I just hated the dust and switched to electrolisis rust removal but this might be a good alternative :). Thanks.