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Benefits of Abrasive Blasting Before Surface Coating
Proper surface preparation is crucial for applying a durable and high-quality surface coating. Abrasive blasting is one of the most effective techniques used to ensure the surface is ready for spray coating. This process offers a range of benefits that contribute to a smoother, longer-lasting finish. In this blog, we’ll explore the key advantages of abrasive blasting and why it’s an essential step before spray coating.
What is abrasive blasting?
Abrasive blasting is a process in which abrasive materials like glassia, steel grit, or glass beads are propelled at high speeds onto a surface to clean or prepare it for coating. This technique removes rust, old paint, contaminants, and other imperfections from a surface, creating an ideal base for spray coating applications.
Key benefits
- Enhanced adhesion of spray coatings: One of the primary benefits of abrasive blasting is the increased adhesion it provides. By roughening the surface, it creates a better bond for the spray coating. Without proper surface preparation, coatings can peel, flake, or wear away more quickly, leading to costly repairs and maintenance. Abrasive blasting ensures that the surface is adequately textured, allowing the spray coating to adhere strongly and evenly.
- Improved surface cleanliness: Abrasive blasting effectively removes rust, dirt, old paint, and other contaminants that can hinder the performance of a coating. This results in a clean and smooth surface, reducing the chances of imperfections and ensuring a professional finish. A clean surface is vital to achieving the desired thickness, durability, and longevity of a coating.
- Extended lifespan of coatings: When the surface is properly prepared through abrasive blasting, the spray coating will last longer. This is because the surface is free of contaminants, and the improved adhesion allows the coating to perform optimally. A well-prepared surface can better withstand environmental stresses, such as moisture, heat, and chemicals, which can prematurely degrade poorly applied coatings.
- Increased corrosion resistance: For industries where metal surfaces are commonly exposed to harsh conditions, abrasive blasting is crucial in enhancing corrosion resistance. The process removes rust and oxidation from metal surfaces, preventing further corrosion under the spray coating. By starting with a clean and roughened surface, the coating can effectively protect the material from future corrosion and deterioration.
- Custom surface profiles: Abrasive blasting can be tailored to achieve different surface profiles, depending on the type of coating being applied. Whether a rough or smooth texture is needed, the abrasive material and blasting technique can be adjusted to meet the specific requirements of the spray coating, ensuring an optimal finish.
- Cost-effective maintenance: In the long run, abrasive blasting saves time and money by minimising the need for frequent maintenance. A properly prepared surface reduces the likelihood of coating failures, such as peeling or blistering, which often require expensive touch-ups or full reapplications. This means fewer interruptions in operations and more efficient use of resources.
Blasting media
The finished surface achieved by blasting depends on the original surface condition of the material being blasted, the type of equipment used to blast, and the size, hardness, type and shape of the blast media used. Our light processing media range includes Walnut and Plastic Media Type II/V. Our medium media range includes Glassia, Olivine (four different sizes), Garnet and Glass Bead, and our heavier processing grit range includes Aluminium Oxide, Steel Grit, Chilled Iron and Copper Slag. You can find our available range of blast media here. For prices, guidance on selecting the right media, or to place an order, please call us on 01778 560650.
Conclusion
Abrasive blasting is an essential step before applying spray coatings in industries ranging from manufacturing to marine applications. By ensuring optimal surface cleanliness, improved adhesion, and enhanced durability, abrasive blasting sets the foundation for a high-quality coating that stands the test of time. For businesses seeking long-lasting results and cost-effective maintenance, incorporating abrasive blasting into the coating process is a wise investment.
