Setup Optimization Asset
Official BLAST APEX Site Setup Guide for optimizing pot-to-nozzle distances.
Download PDF Setup GuidePSI Loss per 15 Meters (at 100 PSI)
| Hose ID | #4 Nozzle | #6 Nozzle | #8 Nozzle |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19 mm (3/4") | 3.5 PSI Loss | 11.0 PSI Loss | CRITICAL DROP |
| 25 mm (1") | 1.5 PSI Loss | 4.5 PSI Loss | 9.5 PSI Loss |
| 32 mm (1-1/4") | 0.5 PSI Loss | 1.5 PSI Loss | 3.0 PSI Loss |
| 38 mm (1-1/2") | Negligible | 0.5 PSI Loss | 1.5 PSI Loss |
Friction & ID Logic
Air power is lost through friction against the hose wall. An undersized hose (e.g. 19mm with a #6 nozzle) forces high-velocity air into a restricted space, creating turbulence and extreme pressure drop. For technical shipyard runs exceeding 30 meters, switching to a **32mm ID** hose is mandatory to maintain 100 PSI at the nozzle tip.
Setup Configurations
- Shipyards: 32mm ID (Long-Run Efficiency)
- Fabrication: 25mm ID (Standard High-Flow)
- Restoration: 19mm ID (High-Flex Control)
Frequently Asked Questions
What size blast hose should I use for a 300 CFM compressor?
300 CFM at 7 bar: Use 1" (25mm) ID blast hose for single-nozzle operation up to #6 bore. For multi-operator (2 nozzles), use 1-1/4" (32mm) ID to prevent pressure drop. A 19mm (3/4") hose at 300 CFM causes 1.5 bar pressure drop per 15m — too much for effective blasting. Rule: hose bore should equal or exceed nozzle bore.
How does hose length affect blast pressure?
Pressure drop is linear with hose length. Each 15m of 1" hose at 300 CFM drops approximately 0.7 bar. A 45m hose loses ~2 bar — a #6 nozzle effectively becomes a #5 nozzle at the work surface. For long hose runs, step up one bore size. For every 30m beyond 15m, consider upgrading from 19mm to 25mm hose.
What causes excessive pressure drop in blast hoses?
Excessive pressure drop is caused by: (1) Undersized hose bore for CFM output. (2) Excessive hose length. (3) Kinks and sharp bends — every 90° bend equals 3-5m of straight hose equivalent. (4) Internal rubber degradation — old hoses with collapsed liner increase friction. (5) Moisture in the line — water droplets accelerate friction losses.