Saturday, December 20, 2014

Brief Description Of The Sponge Blasting Method

By Misty Tyler


In terms of ecologically friendly and economical methods for removing multiple layers of paint, oil, grease or other substances from the surface, it is difficult to find a better option than Sponge media. The Sponge Blasting Method in Ohio is based upon a water-based polyurethane which has been impregnated with abrasives. The material is sprayed on the surface, where the impact causes it to flatten out at the cellular level. The abrasive is exposed. The polyurethane portion constricts and pulls the contaminants away from the surface. The particulates do not become airborne.

Even when there are multiple layers of unwanted paint, dirt or other substances, they can be removed safely, without harm to the surface below. Various categories of the cleaning product are available, depending upon the type of material. The safety of the method lies in the fact that it is almost dustless.

The sponge media that is used won't harm the underlying surface, although it is permeated by abrasives in various levels. Some media does not contain abrasives, so that it can be used on the most sensitive surfaces. Dust from the removed material is not released into the air, so that cleanup is much easier. Another advantage is the fact that water isn't used in the process, so it can be used indoors or out. It is safe to use on surfaces such as historic homes where preservation of the underlying material is critical.

Steel grit abrasive is the most powerful type, intended to remove the toughest coatings. It is used on surfaces which have become deteriorated (rusty). It can also be used to remove extremely thick coatings or elastomeric coatings. Examples of usage include industrial coating removal and removing petrochemical storage tank or rail car linings.

Aluminum oxide abrasive is suitable for industrial coatings. It is used in industries such as petrochemicals, marine manufacturing, offshore, pulp and paper, military applications and power generation. Although the sponge media is powerful, it is not harmful to the underlying strata.

When there are sensitive surfaces under the tough coatings, an abrasive consisting of plastic chips is helpful. This media type will remove graffiti and other coatings from surfaces such as fiberglass, tile, composites and other exotic surfaces.

When you are looking for a way to clean oil and grease from valuable machinery, a very mild abrasive is helpful. This type of media will also take away soot and smoke from hard substrates such as brick or concrete. When you need to clean areas where there are fittings, hoses, nooks and crannies which make it difficult or impossible to remove the unwanted materials by hand.

The advantages of using this method are several. There is no dust with potentially harmful contaminants becoming airborne. The cleaning process allows for capturing and reusing the media product. Because there is no dust blowing around or water spray, there is very little debris left to clean up after the process is completed.




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