SandBlasting Equipments & Supplies

Cleaning bricks with sandblasting techniques can be the perfect solution or a nightmare!

Dry sandblast cleaning is a relatively new method of cleaning recently built masonry, In spite the system has been used for many years in masonry restoration work.

Most experts prefer sandblasting over conventional wet (acid) cleaning because of possible adverse acid reactions with certain types of brick. Other designers are reluctant to permit sandblast cleaning from fear the blasting will erode the face of the brick and mortar joints. Nevertheless, with a qualified operator, proper specifications and good job inspection, sandblasting bricks is as good as any other system and is sometimes superior in many ways.

This is my recommended procedure for Sandblasting bricks:

• Wait for mortar to harden. Brickwork should be completely dry and at least seven days old, preferably 14 days.
• Remove all large mortar particles with hand tools before blasting. Use wooden paddle, the rough edge of a brick, or metal scrape hoe. Chisels may be used if necessary to remove hardened mortar or concrete. This “pre-cleaning” is a very important part of sandblast cleaning. Sandblast operator would irreparably damage wall if large droppings are left for him to remove by blasting.
• Provide adequate protection for all non-masonry surfaces adjacent to work areas, Use plastic sheeting and duct tape to protect windows, doors, etc. If possible, painting, caulking, etc. should be done after sandblast operation is completed.
• When all surfaces are prepared and protected, the operator can begin a first test cleaning.

Sometimes Sandblasting is a labor-intensive, hazardous process that typically is accomplished with a device that blasts sand particles, metal particles or other materials at selected areas of denim garments. The process usually must be done in a room that is shielded from other manufacturing areas, and the worker doing the sandblasting must wear protective gear to prevent being hit by or inhaling airborne sand or other particles.

But now a company called TechnoLines is unveiling its latest laser-scribing system, which features a patented method for creating a worn look typically associated with sandblasting.

This OH-based firm invented the TechnoBlast technology in 1997, and since then has worked to improve and protect the intellectual property rights related to its laser-based scribing process and the software system that drives it. Last year, the U.S. patent office issued three patents to TechnoLines related to TechnoBlast. As of press time, two additional patents had been granted, and several others were pending.

This system incorporates a software program for designing the desired worn look, and a computer-driven laser that simulates the sandblasting process. The designer can use the software to select the placement of a worn section; determine the degree and shape of the worn area; and create unique abrasion patterns to be scribed onto the denim garment in a matter of seconds. For example, TechnoBlast can be used to create the popular feathered abraded look, in which whisker-like lines are scribed onto certain parts of the garment to simulate a worn-in look.

Erasing gang graffiti is costly task for any city, property owners Post-Bulletin, MN – Jan 15, 2008 Some graffiti is erased only by sandblasting , and that work is contracted out. A city ordinance requiring the quick cleanup of graffiti went into affect in.

Read more at:

http://news.postbulletin.com/newsmanager/templates/localnews_story.asp?z=2&a=323380

Meanwhile Dry Ice Blasting offers faster, environmentally sound way to clean.

Dry ice blasting uses compressed air to shoot dry ice pellets to clean in a way similar to sandblasting, but with some major differences. It can clean heavy duty machinery, yet can be gentle enough to clean books. It doesn’t require as much disassembly so less down time is needed.

Read More at:

http://www.deseretnews.com/dn/view/0,1249,635211664,00.html