Question about metal prep before paint

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I'm almost done with my welding cart so it will soon be time for paint.  My question is, what is the cheapest and easiest way to clean the metal before painting?  I'm not worried about a show quality paint job, mainly just want to dress it up a bit and protect the steel from corrosion.It was all new hot rolled 1" square tubing with the exception of a couple sections of old rusty expanded metal on the bottom.  If the rusty E.M. didn't get painted it wouldn't be a huge issue.  Even so, it would take a long time to clean it all with grinding discs or wire wheels.  I'm thinking a sandblaster would be the best, but I've never used one before.  Is the "average" sandblasting setup strong enough to remove the scale from the metal?  I'd imagine so but even with a wire wheel it took some effort to get the metal clean.
Reply:It is a Welding cart- wipe down any grease or left over oil and just rattle can the suckerEd Conleyhttp://www.screamingbroccoli.com/MM252MM211 (Sold)Passport Plus & Spool gunLincoln SP135 Plus- (Gone to a good home)Klutch 120v Plasma cutterSO 2020 benderBeer in the fridge