Dry ice blasting is a cleaning process that uses tiny particles of dry ice to clean surfaces. This method is non-abrasive and works exceptionally well for knocking contaminants from dirty surfaces quickly while leaving no debris or residue behind. Dry ice blasting works well for precision cleaning in locations or on surfaces that you need to be extra cautious with to avoid damage.
The Benefits of Dry Ice Blasting
Dry ice blasting is an excellent way to clean various surfaces in homes, businesses, and even outdoor spaces. There are several benefits that come with utilizing this method. These include:
- It leaves behind no grit
- No harsh chemicals are required
- There is no mess from the water
- It drastically reduces the downtime needed for maintenance
- It is non-conductive and safe around electrical connections
- There is no drying time
- It does not damage sensitive machinery
- It can eliminate any secondary waste
- It does not exposure surfaces to any corrosive solvents
- It can clean without damaging or etching surfaces
- It is ecologically friendly
- Minimal disassembly is required
Another excellent benefit is that there is very little downtime required for maintenance. This reduces the amount of lost production, which is beneficial for several industries.
Automotive Industry
It is no secret that the automotive industry can get quite dirty, especially when working with oil, gas, and so many harsh chemicals. Dry ice blasting is an excellent way to clean up around the shop. This method saves time and money and can help to protect the environment by causing a drastic reduction in the amount of pollutants that can be released into the air through the use of degreasers and other chemicals.
Manufacturing Industry
Dry ice blasting works well for removing contaminants and built-up residue on tools, parts, and machines used in the manufacturing industry. The fact that this cleaning method is non-abrasive in nature makes it one of the best methods for cleaning sensitive and delicate parts and components.
Food Processing
Cleaning food processing equipment is something that needs to be done carefully to avoid damaging it and to ensure it is safe for food. As a result, harsh chemicals are not recommended. Thankfully, dry ice blasting does just that–it provides a thorough cleaning without the use of chemicals that may not be safe for our health.
Aircraft Maintenance
It can be extremely costly and time-consuming to maintain aircraft. With dry ice blasting, you can lessen the amount of time it takes for you to clean efficiently.
Commercial Property Cleaning
Cleaning commercial property can be extremely time-consuming, especially in very large buildings. Whether you have a hotel, office building, or even a shopping center, dry ice blasting is an excellent way to quickly clean your buildings effectively and without the use of harsh chemicals and without leaving residue, dirt, and debris behind.
Marine Industry
It is no secret that the marine industry is constantly being pressured about its impact on the environment. One of the ways to help reduce the impact on the environment is to use dry ice blasting while cleaning. This can help to reduce the amount of pollutants that are released into the air.
Most Frequently Asked Questions
Individuals who have never heard of dry ice blasting often have a lot of questions about the process and what happens. Here are some of the most common questions asked by customers in the Burlington, Wisconsin, area.
Where Does the Oil and Grease Go?
Dry ice blasting can truly blast oils, grease, and other stuck-on liquids or gels from surfaces. As the surface is being cleaned, most of the dirt, oil, grease, and debris will fall onto the floor. The drops are then vacuumed or swept up and disposed of in a proper manner. There are no cleaning solvents or chemicals needed to remove filth from the surface.
When the surface is wet, oily, or heavily soiled, the areas may need to be mopped prior to the dry ice blasting. Pretreating may be recommended in some areas with dry and absorbent materials that can help make the cleaning process easier.
What Happens to the Dirt and Debris?
All of the dirt, debris, and other remnants can be disposed of on-site or securely contained and taken away for off-site disposal.
Is Dry Ice Blasting a Better Cleaning Method Than Sandblasting?
When referencing the environment, dry ice blasting is the most environmentally friendly option for blast cleaning. Although sandblasting can be biodegradable, it also has the potential to harm things in the surrounding environment. This can limit the locations and surfaces that it can clean. Alternatively, dry ice blast cleaning does not cause etching or other damage, making it an excellent way to clean an array of surfaces without worry or mess.
What Is Required to Clean Effectively?
There are several things that are needed for a cleaning crew to perform dry ice blasting services effectively. One of the most important components is the 1-inch or larger supply line or compressed, cool, dry air. The air should have a 150 psi minimum pressure.
Higher temperatures can damage the internal components of the units used for pelletized ice blasting. For this reason, the air temperature in the location must be less than 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
In some cases, the equipment will need a standard 120-volt electrical outlet to ensure a consistent power supply. An extension power cord may be used on rare occasions. However, it must be less than 50 feet long and with a rating of 10 gauge or higher.
Can You Use Dry Ice Blasting Indoors?
Dry ice blasting is extremely safe and effective when it comes to cleaning various surfaces across an array of industries. It is important to know that this type of cleaning is great for both indoors and outdoors. This method uses pelletized dry ice that is both non-abrasive and non-toxic. When the dry ice dissipates into the atmosphere, it sublimates into CO2, which is a harmless gas substance.
There are no ventilation requirements for the amount of CO2 that is produced, and no specialized breathing equipment is needed. In addition, due to the fact that the pelletized dry ice is transient and soft in nature, there are minimal risks of any collateral damage.
Schedule a Free Quote in Burlington, WI Today
If you are interested in taking advantage of all of the benefits of dry ice blasting, reach out to our team at Raw Restoration Blasting for a free quote. Our team in Burlington, Wisconsin, can discuss your needs and goals and the best plan possible to help you achieve them. Contact us today by calling 262-417-6836 to get started.
