Blog

Oil spills present a unique challenge in the surface preparation world. In these scenarios, the oil needs to be properly removed prior to painting or coating surfaces, as any residue left on the surface can cause significant problems down the line. When oil is spilled on equipment where the coatings are still in good shape, it is important to remove all the oil without damaging the current coatings.

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.

Located along the main road of Steeleville, Illinois (USA), sits a charming Lutheran Church called St. Mark’s. Surrounded by both homes and businesses in the center of the small town, the Church is a well-known landmark in the community. Prior to a recent renovation, the staff at St Mark's noticed that much of the white paint was peeling off of this decorative ceiling, leaving areas of exposed tin.

Working around other trades is one of the most challenging aspects of any surface preparation and coating application job. If a building intends to stay open for business during abrasive blasting, a whole new level of logistical issues come into play. Fortunately, Sponge Media™ blasting eliminated many of the headaches involved with these two common jobsite challenges on a recent parking garage repair and renovation project. 

Not long ago in Washington D.C. (USA), a large fire broke out in a restaurant during its ongoing remodel. Located along the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal in the bustling neighborhood of Georgetown, the fire left heavy soot (about 20-30 mils) on a variety of different substrates inside the building, including brick, concrete, stone, and wood.

When the dome of the Old Capitol building began showing wear and tear from exposure to the extreme Midwest weather, it was critical that the existing gold leaf be removed and replaced without damaging the copper substrate. 

The New Jersey State House was built in 1792, and is the second oldest state house still in use. As part of a $300 million renovation, the restoration of the impressive gold dome structure was undertaken. This 160-foot tall (from floor to apex) dome is where sponge media blasting came to the rescue with the solution to a complex surface preparation and historical preservation problem. 

When conducting surface preparation work in wastewater treatment plants, there are many factors to consider before blasting ever begins. For example: protecting the pipes, sensitive equipment, and electrical conduit from abrasive dust and ricochet. Not to mention ensuring that the ventilation system is not overwhelmed with abrasive dust.

Unexpected jobsite findings when combined with an extremely tight deadline adds a challenging layer to projects that some contractors can’t overcome. This was not the case with Corrosion Control Resources, Inc. (CCR) who arrived on the scene at Arlington Water Utilities Pump Station expecting to hand blast with coal slag, but ended up robotic blasting with Sponge Media.