1. What is Vapour Blasting?
Vapour Blasting is an abrasive blasting method that is similar to “sandblasting” but with the addition of water. The water buffers and lubricates the media particulate preventing excess damage to substrates, impregnation media in the substrates, greatly reduces media consumption, while at the same time provides a high level of dust and debris field control.
2. What blasting medias can be used?
Any media that sinks in water (including Sodium Bicarbonate). Media exclusions include corn cob, walnut shells, and plastic bead.
3. Is the equipment portable?
Not particularly. The equipment weighs anywhere from 700-1100 lbs (empty), but can be moved with a fork lift, and has chain mounts for hoisting to roof tops when need be. Although not ideal, hose runs of up to 600’ can be made.
4. When would you chose dry abrasive blasting over Vapour Blasting?
– When super-high aggression is required and you aren’t worried about damaging the substrate, or making a mess.
– When working in sub-zero temperatures.
– When the operator needs optimal visibility of contaminate removal in real-time. In some situations the addition of water can make the work surface dirty while blasting making it difficult to see what you’re cleaning.
5. Can the media be re-used
Yes; In some situations.
6. Does the process create static?
No. Sparks are created with most medias, but the water acts to isolate the surface preventing it from becoming charged.
7. Can the system be used in sub-zero temperatures?
Yes, but generally becomes very difficult in temps below -5deg C. Plumbers anti-freeze needs to fill each line before being stored when the system is stored.
8. How much air supply is required, and what blast pressures?
185-375 CFM. 185 CFM is ok for short hose runs (under 150’). Pot remains pressurized at 120 psi while blasting pressures can range from 40psi up to 100psi.
9. What about flash rusting?
To prevent flash rusting we use a product called HoldTight 102. HoldTight 102 is added to the blast pot during rinse down and will prevent flash rusting for up to 7 days.
10. What are the primary safety issues?
– air embolism
– eye protection
– ear protection
– respiratory protection
– hose kick back when blasting from unstable work platforms or uneven ground
– air supply hose failure (whip checks installed)
11. Do we use “sand”?
No. The use of media containing over 1% free silica has been strictly regulated for many years.
