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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.

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.

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.

Fires can happen anywhere. While the cause of fires vary, every year thousands of homes, commercial properties, and industrial facilities deal with the cleanup after a blaze. In the aftermath of a fire, structural engineers and insurance companies will work together to determine if a property can be salvaged. In many cases, a fire restoration specialist will work with the owner to resurrect the property from the ashes. 

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.

When fires occur, the immediate focus should be on preserving the health and safety of those in danger. Fire departments do amazing work saving lives and preventing fire spread throughout buildings and into nearby structures. Despite firefighters’ efforts, buildings often require robust cleaning of smoke, fire, and water damage in the aftermath.

Imagine a 50 year old municipal water tank. It’s only been five years since it was last coated, but for some reason the paint is already starting to fail. Rust can be seen spotting all over the tank’s exterior. If we were to do a forensic style analysis on the surface of the tank and the flaking paint chips, we’d most likely see that poor surface preparation is to blame for the failure.

Many advanced Certified Rebuild Centers (CRCs) and Heavy Equipment Refurbishment facilities are turning away from regular abrasive blasting and/or high pressure washing during their re-manufacturing process. Increasingly, these centers are focusing on cleaning the equipment using Sponge-Jet blasting prior to disassembly.

In the early hours of a windy Sunday morning, a massive, 10-alarm fire broke out in the downtown area of Waltham, Massachusetts. The fire completely destroyed a condo complex that was under construction, leaving severe soot damage throughout the entire parking garage next door.