The Power of Dry Ice Blasting with Abrasives

Using abrasives with AI30 dry ice blaster maybe cause hopper blockages.
Coming soon: The AI30 dry ice cleaning system is very effective without the use of abrasives, but we will be introducing new models to be compatible with abrasives for increased efficiency and safety.

In the world of industrial cleaning, the quest for efficiency and environmental responsibility has led to the rise of dry ice blasting. A process that was once deemed too gentle for certain tasks, dry ice blasting has evolved, now offering a powerful solution for removing paint and other surface contaminants with the addition of an abrasive. This combination not only meets the demands of modern industry but also addresses the health and safety concerns of workers and the environment.

Traditional paint removal methods, such as sandblasting, have been effective but come with significant drawbacks. They generate large amounts of waste and respirable dust, requiring extensive cleanup and containment, which not only extends project timelines but also poses health risks to workers. In contrast, dry ice blasting with an abrasive significantly reduces waste and dust, eliminating the need for secondary cleanup and drying time, thus streamlining the entire process.

The benefits of this innovative cleaning method are manifold. Firstly, it eliminates the need for pre- and post-cleaning processes, saving both time and labor. Containment setup and waste disposal, which are necessary with traditional methods, become obsolete. Secondly, it reduces dust levels and waste, aligning with OSHA standards and protecting both workers and the environment. The use of dry ice and an abrasive results in a 97% reduction in dust levels, a stark contrast to the dust clouds generated by sandblasting.

Moreover, this method is not only safer for employees but also more environmentally friendly. It requires significantly less media input than traditional methods, reducing the amount of media and dust dispersed into the environment. This leads to extensive time and cost savings, as the need for pre- and post-washing, containment setup, and waste collection is eliminated. The surface is left completely dry and free of residue, allowing for immediate application of a new coat of paint or coating.

When should dry ice blasting with an abrasive be employed? The answer lies in its ability to tackle heavy or pitted corrosion. Where dry ice alone falls short, the addition of an abrasive can achieve a near-white metal finish, removing a small layer of metal to expose a new surface profile. This advancement is particularly beneficial for industrial applications involving structural steel of ships, tanks, infrastructure, and pipelines, where the removal of certain types of paint, corrosion, or coatings is crucial.

In conclusion, the synergy between dry ice and abrasives in blasting technology has revolutionized the way we approach surface cleaning. It offers a solution that is not only effective in removing paint and coatings but also considerate of worker safety and environmental impact. As industries continue to seek more sustainable and efficient cleaning methods, dry ice blasting with an abrasive stands out as a frontrunner, promising a cleaner, safer, and more productive future.