What’s Next?

Ever since we put our glass crusher, Big Blue, into operation, we’ve wondered if we could use the pulverized glass (cullet) to do sandblasting (the generic term). Finally, in September, we tried out the idea.

First, we needed to dry the cullet – thank goodness for some sunny days – and then sift it to get the smaller particles. We tried a small batch to test the concept. Even at that, the cullet worked to blast off rust from metal tools. The company who made Big Blue, Andela, said they do the same thing, but on a larger scale. So we are encouraged with the first test. In the near future, we’ll make some adjustments and learn more along the way.

What’s the value of this effort?  Many metal tools get discarded and wind up as junk. Maybe they just need a new handle. If we could salvage those items and make them useable again, then we would really be doing the Reuse in Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. The items could wind up in The Exchange for purchase and a get new home where they are put to work. Watch for more news on this in future newsletters. In the meantime, don’t be in a rush to throw away old broken handles or metal tools.