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Over the course of the last few years, many Dry Ice Blasting (DIB) contractors have been increasingly adding Sponge-Jet systems to their range of equipment and services. While both surface preparation methods are used on a wide variety of substrates for cleaning and the removal of surface contaminants, each solution brings unique advantages to different projects. By combining these methods, contractors have the ability to expand their surface preparation capabilities and choose the best blasting methods for their application.

Early coatings failures can often be attributed to inadequate surface preparation. One of the most common steps skipped prior to applying a new coating is failing to effectively remove grease and oils from the substrate prior to painting.

Power tooling is a method of surface preparation commonly used in tight spaces where access is limited. Pneumatic, electric, and hand tools such as angle grinders, needle guns, wire wheels, wire brushes, scrapers, and sanding pads can be used to remove rust, paint, and other contaminants from a surface.

Both Freshwater and Saltwater vessels see all sorts of contaminants and corrosion throughout their service life. Corrosion can threaten everything on ships, from power gen and water storage tanks, to their general structural integrity. In order to overcome these threats, proper surface preparation is key.

Pipelines are crucial for transporting clean water from treatment plants to cities, businesses, and homes. By maintaining a closed piping system from the source to the faucet, water utilities reduce the risk of water contamination. During the manufacturing of these pipes, proper surface prep must be completed to ensure that they maintain their integrity after coating and installation.

In the United States, Mill buildings have been community cornerstones since the 1800s. During the North American Industrial Revolution, thousands of mill buildings were constructed to allow for faster production of textiles and other goods. These high-producing areas, known informally as Mill Towns, suffered greatly in the late 20th century, leaving many of these former factories abandoned.

Jobs that are characterized as "abatement projects" typically involve the removal of hazardous materials from the surface. These types of projects are often found in places like industrial shipyards, factories, tanks, water treatment plants, mill buildings, and generally any building or structure built before 1980.

Sponge-Jet boasts a wide range of composite abrasives used in a variety of industries and applications. Sponge Blasting is a dry process that typically falls under the abrasive blasting category. While many are familiar with our standard types of Sponge Media™, Sponge-Jet also offers some Sponge Media types with a designation of "DG" - within this article, we'll discuss what this means.

Check out Sponge-Jet’s television debut on “Who’s Afraid of a Cheap Old House?” live on HGTV at 10pm EST, May 14th, 2024 and set your DVR's to record it! The show will also be available live for international audiences on YouTube TV.