Guide

How sandblaster tank size calculators work

Plain-language guide to sizing a portable sandblaster from surface area and intensity, with 5 / 10 / 20 gal classes and NO_MATCH.

What this tool answers

You need a first-pass portable sandblaster tank size for US shop or DIY surface prep. The calculator scores area by intensity, then names the smallest class on this ladder (5, 10, or 20 gal) — or returns NO_MATCH.

Why intensity matters

Heavy continuous blasting empties a tank faster and favors larger reservoirs. Touch-up jobs can run on a 5 gal unit with more refills. Factors 1.0 / 1.5 / 2.5 are transparent screens — not a media-consumption lab model.

Compressor still dominates

A tank without enough SCFM at working PSI will surge and stall. Match nozzle charts to your compressor delivery CFM after ShopCFM-style duty factors.

When the answer is NO_MATCH

If the job score exceeds the 20 gal portable screen, this site returns NO_MATCH. Split the job, use a larger tank/cabinet, or a dustless unit — do not force a 20 gal consumer class.

Sources

VEVOR US portable sandblaster product pages for 5 / 10 / 20 gal tanks (HTTP 200, 2026-09-10). Complementary to WashPSI and ShopCFM, not a duplicate intent.

Related resources