Thanks for the advice. I think I'll get a good cabinet but wheel it
outdoors for use and use some of the less toxic media. I will also try to
rout my aluminum but plan to do it slowly taking only a small amount of
material at a time. Even if it takes many passes.

Thanks

Barry


"Harold and Susan Vordos" wrote in message
...

"Barry" wrote in message
...
I have a couple of questions.

First I'd like to get a blast cabinet. Are the better ones with included
vacuum systems such as from eastwood safe to use indoors. How much
leakage
is there. Can the risk be minimized by using different media.

Blast cabinets tend to lose a little dust, even with a good vacuum system.
What I do is use a squirrel cage blower and discharge the exhaust outside.
I
live out in the country, where it's not a problem. If you live in a
sub-division, that might not be a solution to your problem. I strongly
suggest it as a solution if possible. It's cheaper and far more effective.
Should you choose this direction, try to use a blower that doesn't move
too
much air. When you do, you also remove your media.

What's important is that you try for a negative pressure in the
environment.
Remember, you're discharging compressed air in the cabinet, along with
making dust, so it has to go somewhere. The vacuum systems sold for
such cabinets do a fair job, but they're clearly a PITA because they plug
off and restrict air movement.

I have two
young kids and would not want to take a risk.

No dust is good for them, but avoid using silica sand, which creates
serious
health issues for everyone concerned. I'd suggest you invest in proper
media, which costs more, but will last a long time and do a great job, and
is considerably safer. Aluminum oxide is a good idea.


Number two. I've read that carbide router bits can be used on aluminum
(6061 in this case). Is this true. Also do I need to use a speed
control
on the router to slow it down or can it run full speed.

Speed in aluminum is virtually a non-issue. Fortunately, the carbide grade
used for wood is also proper for non-ferrous metals, so you can likely get
away with it, but be aware that metal grabs more than does wood. If you
use
large form cutters, you're inviting serious injury. Without knowing
more,
it would be difficult to give any solid advice, but, yes, in principle,
you
can cut aluminum with a router. If you find you're experiencing welding
of
chips on the cutter, try lubricating with some kerosene, or some WD-40,
which smells much nicer and will do the same job. It is messy.

Thanks In advance

My pleasure. Good luck------and be careful.

Harold