The Benefits Of Sponge Blasting

By Essie Osborn


There is a new method of cleaning paint and corrosion off buildings and other structures that uses a non-polluting substance that is also reusable. This new process is also virtually dust free when in use. Sponge blasting can etch, remove coatings and clean several substrates and is reportedly superior to customary methods used to date for this process.

It is an air propelled open cell, water based polyurethane foam that is capable of cleaning surfaces. The users can use abrasive grit in the mixture to enhance the performance of cleaning processes. There are five different levels of abrasive that are used and each is designated for specific media and textures.

The lowest abrasive level of grit is used for oil removal from hard substrates and heavy machinery. It will not damage hoses or fittings on the machinery. It also works well on smoke and soot removal from concrete and steel structures. The other four levels contain components that rise in intensity with the most abrasive being steel grit that is used for heavy rusted structures or where multiple heavy coatings present the need for a deep profile system.

Recycling is one of the better aspects of the process. The media used can be reused up to eight or more times before it needs to be replaced. It can then be disposed of at the dump once it has been containerized. It is not hazardous waste and does not destroy the air we breathe. With this method the water usage is also minimal.

This method is also very cost effective for the customer. Because up to ninety five percent of all the materials are reusable and will be recycled the material costs are lower. The preparation time is virtually non-existent and clean up is minimal so fewer workers are needed and labor costs are diminished. It also is much faster than the traditional methods of the past.

The buildings and structures that employ this method of cleaning do not need to stop doing business while work is in progress. There are no chemicals used and the dust and pollutants that normally would be air borne are absorbed by the polyurethane foam on impact and waste water is minimal. All of these factors work to keep the health and safety of the workers and employees at the fore front of the operation.

This procedure is so advanced it can remove single layers of paint or dirt without damaging the substrate beneath. It undoubtedly is the preferred method for historical buildings and private homes. The process is so precise that it could be used around and near sensitive control systems. It is capable of removing man made coverings as well as those created by nature or the environment around the building. This process is very good for removal of patina from metals without damaging them.

This procedure may be the best method of cleaning your building or preparing the surface for new paint. It is environmentally friendly and cost efficient for the customer as well as the contractor. The advantage of being able to reuse the media with minor processing on the job as well as when doing additional jobs helps keep the landfills from filling up as well as relieving the contractor of creating toxic waste that damages the environment.




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