Clemco Blast Pot FAQs

The ideal blast pot size depends on your specific needs, including the type of work being performed, media selection, compressor capacity, and desired production rate. Once these factors are known, the correct Clemco blast pot can be recommended with confidence.

Yes. Baking soda and other lightweight blasting media require specialized equipment. Clemco machines such as the Pool Pal^® and Soft King^® are designed specifically for lightweight media and provide consistent flow and control that standard blast pots cannot.

A standard blast pot depressurizes each time the operator releases the deadman control, which can slow down production.

A pressure-hold blast pot maintains pressure when the deadman is released, allowing for quicker restarts and improved efficiency. Pressure-hold systems require a compatible media valve, such as the PQV Pro^®, and use an abrasive cut-off switch to stop media flow while maintaining vessel pressure.

Yes. Clemco replacement parts are widely available and easy to source, helping minimize downtime and extend the life of your equipment.

Most Clemco equipment can be serviced by the end user. With the proper manual and basic mechanical skills, routine maintenance and repairs can be performed without the need for a specialized technician.

The fill-port screen prevents debris—such as paper from media bags—from entering the blast machine. Debris can travel into the media valve and cause flow problems or premature wear, so the screen helps protect critical components.

Compressor requirements are based on the nozzle size being used. In addition, you should allow approximately 20 CFM of air for a supplied-air respirator.

A compressor-to-nozzle sizing chart is available in the portal. Many operators keep a photo of this chart on their phone for quick reference in the field.

Clemco blast machines equipped with an MQV^® Pro or PQV Pro^® valve can handle virtually any blasting media.

For lightweight media such as baking soda, Clemco recommends dedicated machines like the Soft King^® or Pool Pal^®.

Your air compressor sets the ceiling for nozzle size. Running a compressor at 100% capacity leads to excessive wear and reduced lifespan, so a best practice is to size your nozzle based on approximately 80% of the compressor’s rated airflow, minus air required for a respirator.

Rule of thumb:
If maximum production is the goal, use the largest nozzle your compressor can support without running at full capacity.

Quick-Reference: Compressor to Nozzle Sizing (at 100 PSI)

Step 1: Calculate Usable Airflow

• Compressor CFM × 80%
• Subtract 20 CFM for a supplied-air respirator

Common Compressor Sizes

Recommended Nozzle Sizes (100 PSI)

Example Calculations

375 CFM Compressor

• 375 × 80% = 300 CFM
• 300 – 20 (respirator) = 280 CFM available
• Recommended nozzle at 100 PSI: #7

185 CFM Compressor

• 185 × 80% = 148 CFM
• 148 – 20 (respirator) = 128 CFM available
• Recommended nozzle at 100 PSI: #5
• A #4 nozzle would be even easier on the compressor