Shot blasting is a little different from sandblasting because it doesn’t require any sand. Instead, shot blasting uses steel beads that are blasted at a surface to clear off contaminants and stains.
1. Removes Corrosion
Most types of metal can end up with rust or corrosion. Whether it’s actually rust or something else, like mill scale, these issues can trap moisture under them, holding it against the metal where it can do even more damage. Removing the corrosion releases the moisture and protects the metal. The abrasive method can be used on a wide variety of metals and can strip even badly rusted beams and poles down to clean metal so they can be used again.
2. Prepares the Surface
The surface of metal that has been shot blasted will hold a paint layer or other type of coating far better than regular metal. It offers an extremely strong bond and helps ensure the coating will last for as long as possible.
3. Shows Up Surface Defects
Any issues that may be present on the surface of the metal can easily be seen once you’ve used this method to clear it up. The tiny pellets can also be useful in smoothing the surface out quite a bit, making it fit for the next layer you choose to put on it. Once a defect has been identified, it’s possible to aim the machine at that area to help level it out and makes sure the problem doesn’t run any deeper than it appears.
4. Environmentally Friendly
The best way to clean metal is without any acid or special pellets. Shot blasting eliminates the need for chemicals or harmful cleansing agents. It just uses the pellets to abrade the surface. The dust that is created by the process is quickly suctioned away by a machine designed for the process.
5. Fast
Surface smoothing can take a very long time with traditional methods. However, with shot blasting, it’s possible to prep your surface up to 75% faster. That means time and money saved in the long run and the products can be moved forward on the assembly line quite easily.
Shot blasting is used in many applications and is extremely handy. It is a method that is being adopted by a wide range of industries and it will only become more popular. Since you can reuse the steel pellets, the method is particularly efficient and effective.
Ready to try shot blasting for yourself? Contact HP Hydraulics today to learn how we can work with you.