Dustless blasting machine

The dustless blasting machine is an innovative device that can be effectively used to remove paint, rust, dirt and other coatings from various surfaces. Using water and environmentally friendly blasting agents, this machine can be used without creating dust clouds, making it a safe and clean option for different types of projects. The dustless blasting machine offers a quick and thorough way of cleaning and restoring surfaces, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals in various industries.

How does dustless blasting work?

Dustless blasting is an efficient and cost-effective method of stripping a variety of surfaces without leaving behind excessive dust and other contaminants. This blasting process is faster and takes far less time than traditional methods, as it removes impurities from the surface in a more efficient manner. The process is also much safer, as there is minimal cleanup required after job completion, limiting the amount of time and money spent on the cleanup process.

Dustless blasting equipment

Dustless blasting equipment is becoming increasingly popular because of its efficiency and environmental friendliness. This technology uses brushes to remove paint, rust and dirt from surfaces without producing dust. This provides a cleaner workplace and minimizes the impact on the environment. Companies in various industries, such as automotive and construction, are using this innovative method of dustless blasting for their projects. With dustless blasting equipment from Montipower, they can achieve quick and effective results without the drawbacks of traditional blasting.

Bristle Blaster® the ultimate dustless blasting machine

The Bristle Blaster® is MontiPower’s dustless blasting machine. The grit-free patented Bristle Blaster® is able to produce a surface quality comparable to grit blasting both in cleaning of the object and in roughness capacity:

– surface cleanliness of Sa 2.5 or SSPC-SP 10

– roughness capacity up to 120 μm Rz (ca. average 65-83 μm Rz on API 5L steel)

The major advantages of the power tools over traditional blasting methods are their simplicity in use and their relatively low cost. This is because the surface is prepared with a light, handheld machine. Other alternatives to grit blasting that are used to work smaller areas are also unable to prepare a surface profile suitable for industrial coating. In addition, these other alternatives to grit blasting usually cannot meet the surface cleanliness and roughness requirements, which is possible with the Bristle Blaster®.

Bristle Blasting is ideally suited for portable usage as no protective suits with closed system respiratory equipment are required and no complex machinery or other grit media recovery equipment is needed. Only the application of standard personal protective equipment (PPE) is recommended for the eyes, face, hands and respiratory. Apart from the materials removed, no other additional or environmentally harmful waste products are produced.

How do the alternative dustless blasting machines work?

MontiPower’s dustless blasting tools are manually operated tools equipped with a rotating brush. Due to the specially designed curved brush tips, the surface is cleaned quickly and easily, with similar results to traditional grit blasting. Because the tips are released with a great deal of force from behind the tools’ accelerator bar, they immediately retract from the surface, providing the same roughness as with grit blasting. In this way, the Bristle Blaster® offers all the advantages of grit blasting, including the high-quality result. This makes MontiPower power tools for many markets the relatively cheap, easy to operate and effective alternative to the traditional grit blasting machine.

WHAT IS BRISTLE BLASTING?

Bristle Blasting is a mechanical surface preparation technique designed to remove corrosion, rust, mill scale and other contaminants from metal surfaces. Unlike traditional methods that rely on abrasive materials such as sand or grit, Bristle Blasting uses a unique approach using rapidly rotating, flexible wire brushes.

BRISTLE BLASTING

When it comes to surface preparation for painting or coating applications, traditional methods such as sandblasting and chemical cleaning have long been the norm. However, in recent years, the revolutionary technique of the Bristle Blaster® has gained popularity for its effectiveness and environmentally friendly features. In this article, we will take a closer look at what Bristle Blasting is, how it works, and why it has become a game-changer in the world of surface preparation.

HOW DOES BRISTLE BLASTING WORK

The process involves the use of the Bristle Blaster® equipped with rotating brush tips. The brush tips of the Bristle Blaster® are designed to strike the affected surface with kinetic energy, which is equivalent to standard processes that use grit-blasting media. When in contact with the surface to be treated, the brushes mechanically remove rust, scale and other unwanted materials from the substrate.

BENEFITS OF BRISTLE BLASTING:

1. Environmentally friendly: Bristle Blasting generates minimal waste, making it an environmentally friendly option compared to traditional methods that often produce harmful dust and debris. 
2. Improved Surface Profile: Because of the flexibility of the brushes, the Bristle Blaster® is able to adapt to irregular surfaces, providing a consistent and improved surface profile for better adhesion of coatings. 
3. Cost Effective: Bristle Blasting is cost effective due to reduced downtime and less waste disposal, ultimately saving both time and money. 
4. Minimal Surface Damage: Unlike abrasive blasting methods that can sometimes damage the substrate, Bristle Blasting is gentler on the surface, extending the life of the material. 
5. Versatility: Bristle Blasting can be applied to a wide range of materials, including steel, aluminum and concrete, making it a versatile option for various industries.

APPLICATIONS OF BRISTLE BLASTING:

Bristle Blasting finds applications in industries such as marine, oil and gas, construction and manufacturing, where surface preparation is critical for coatings, painting or welding processes. It is particularly valuable for removing corrosion from ship hulls, oil platform components, bridges and storage tanks.

ADVANCED SURFACE PREPARATION

In summary, Bristle Blasting is an advanced surface preparation technique that offers numerous advantages over traditional methods. Its environmentally friendly nature, cost-effectiveness and versatility make it a valuable tool in industries where surface quality and longevity are paramount. As technology continues to evolve, Bristle Blasting is likely to become even more important as a solution for achieving optimal surface preparation results.

If you are considering surface preparation for your next project, exploring Bristle Blasting as an option could lead to significant efficiency and performance benefits.

BRISTLE BLASTER®

The patented Bristle Blaster® is the world’s first hand-operated brush belt system that compares to sandblasting in quality of surface roughness, and in results. The Bristle Blasting process is a new innovation that both removes corrosion, and generates an anchor profile using specially designed rotating brushes. The Bristle Blaster® consists of wire brush tips bent forward and dynamically matched to power tools operating at approximately 2,500 rpm.

SURFACE PREPARATION EQUIPMENT

Surface preparation equipment is essential for achieving high-quality results in various industries. From removing rust and old paint to creating a smooth surface for coatings, these equipment play a crucial role in ensuring durability and longevity of the final product. Whether you are working on automotive, construction, or industrial projects, having the right surface preparation equipment is vital.

With advanced technology and innovative features, the Montipower surface preparation tools make the preparation process faster, more efficient, and safer. Invest in reliable surface preparation equipment to enhance productivity, save time, and deliver exceptional results that meet the highest industry standards.

MontiPower’s Bristle Blaster® and MBX® are revolutionary tools in the field of surface preparation. For example, it is the only hand-held power tool in the world that can “sandblast”. The patented technology removes corrosion and coatings quickly and thoroughly, but that’s not all. The Bristle Blaster® and MBX® also create surface preparation grades comparable to Sa2½ (SSPC-SP 10/NACE No. 2) to Sa3 (SSPC-SP 5/NACE No. 1) and roughness levels as high as 120 µm Rz.

SURFACE PREPARATION WITHOUT BLASTING

MontiPower®’s various power tools are a phenomenal breakthrough when it comes to “blasting without abrasive“. Partly because of this, the power tools are seen as the perfect alternative to sandblasting. Despite the fact that sandblasting has been practiced for many years, several disadvantages to this method of surface preparation have come to light over the years. For example, sandblasting is not easy to perform yourself, making it a relatively expensive and time-consuming job to outsource to a professional. In addition, sandblasting is very persistent. Not only for the surface to be prepared – which can damage it – but also for the health of people, animals and the environment. The dangers of sandblasting have even led to a ban on sandblasting in many countries, so other blasting media are now mostly used. With the arrival of MontiPower’s surface preparation tools, sandblasting will soon be a thing of the past. The patented properties of the Bristle Blaster® and the MBX® have formed the basis for new product series for surface preparation.

SURFACE PREPARATION WITH THE BRISTLE BLASTER®

When it comes to surface preparation for painting or coating applications, traditional methods such as sandblasting and chemical cleaning have long been the norm. However, in recent years, the revolutionary technique of the Bristle Blaster® has gained popularity for its effectiveness and environmentally friendly features. In this article, we will take a closer look at what Bristle Blasting is, how it works, and why it has become a game-changer in the world of surface preparation.

DUSTLESS SANDBLASTING

Dustless sand blasting is a quick and clean method for removing paint, rust, and dirt without creating dust clouds.

Dustless sandblasting can be done fast, cutting down the effort and time needed to remove material from surfaces. With no dust spreading around, it’s more practical to sandblast without a dustless system, making it suitable for projects that need a good clean with minimal disturbance.

WHAT IS DUSTLESS SANDBLASTING

Dustless sandblasting is an efficient and cost-effective method of stripping a variety of surfaces without leaving behind excessive dust and other contaminants. This blasting process is faster and takes far less time than traditional methods, as it removes impurities from the surface in a more efficient manner. The process is also much safer, as there is minimal cleanup required after job completion, limiting the amount of time and money spent on the cleanup process.

ADVANTAGES OF DUSTLESS SANDBLASTING

Dustless sandblasting is a method of abrasive blasting which is totally dust free. So there is no need for extra ventilation and suppression systems.

WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF DUSTLESS SANDBLASTING?

Firstly, there is the issue of cost. Dustless sandblasting usually requires more specialized equipment and is typically more labor intensive, meaning that it may be more expensive than other methods. Additionally, dustless sandblasting requires more training due to the increased complexity of the equipment.

SURFACE PREPARATION WITHOUT DUST WITH MONTIPOWER’S POWER TOOLS

Certain standards apply to the surface preparation of steel. Normally, the use of industrial coatings requires a surface cleanliness of Sa 2.5 (or SSPC-SP10 or NACE 2) and a specific roughness based on the surface preparation standards. In most cases, abrasive grit blasting is used for this purpose. ‘Sand blasting’ has traditionally been the best known method of grit blasting, but nowadays, grit blasting can also be done with other materials. But how does surface preparation with grit blasting actually work? What types of grit blasting are there, what are the advantages and disadvantages, and how are MontiPower’s power tools a good alternative for this?

ALTERNATIVE FOR THE DUSTLESS SANDBLASTER: THE BRISTLE BLASTER®

The Bristle Blaster® is MontiPower’s alternative to grit blasting. The grit-free patented Bristle Blaster® is able to produce a surface quality comparable to grit blasting both in cleaning of the object and in roughness capacity:

– surface cleanliness of Sa 2.5 or SSPC-SP 10

– roughness capacity up to 120 μm Rz (ca. average 65-83 μm Rz on API 5L steel)

The major advantages of the power tools over traditional blasting methods are their simplicity in use and their relatively low cost. This is because the surface is prepared with a light, handheld machine. Other alternatives to grit blasting that are used to work smaller areas are also unable to prepare a surface profile suitable for industrial coating. In addition, these other alternatives to grit blasting usually cannot meet the surface cleanliness and roughness requirements, which is possible with the Bristle Blaster®.

Bristle Blasting is ideally suited for portable usage as no protective suits with closed system respiratory equipment are required and no complex machinery or other grit media recovery equipment is needed. Only the application of standard personal protective equipment (PPE) is recommended for the eyes, face, hands and respiratory. Apart from the materials removed, no other additional or environmentally harmful waste products are produced.

HOW DO THE ALTERNATIVE DUSTLESS SANDBLASTER  TOOLS WORK?

MontiPower’s alternative grit blasting tools are manually operated tools equipped with a rotating brush. Due to the specially designed curved brush tips, the surface is cleaned quickly and easily, with similar results to traditional grit blasting. Because the tips are released with a great deal of force from behind the tools’ accelerator bar, they immediately retract from the surface, providing the same roughness as with grit blasting. In this way, the Bristle Blaster® offers all the advantages of grit blasting, including the high-quality result. This makes MontiPower power tools for many markets the relatively cheap, easy to operate and effective alternative to the traditional grit blasting machine.

TYPES OF SURFACE PREPARATION

Surface preparation is a crucial step in many different types of projects. It ensures that the surface is properly prepared and ready for the application of coatings or finishes. There are various types of surface preparation methods that are commonly used, each serving a specific purpose. No matter the type of surface preparation method used, it is important to choose the right technique based on the specific surface and the desired end result. By adequately preparing the surface, you can ensure a long-lasting and high-quality finish.

WHAT IS SURFACE PREPARATION?

Surface preparation is defined as “the cleaning or preparing of the metal surface prior to the application of a coating.” In practice, surface preparation embraces many things, which fall under this term. For example, the removal of mill scale , rust, removal of imperfections, removal of existing coatings and or other contaminants. The creation of a profile on the metal surface also falls under the preparation of surfaces. In this way a good adhesion layer is created between the object and the coating that is applied to it.

It can be performed by using chemicals to clean and treat the surface, or by using mechanical methods to alter its texture or remove unwanted substances such as weld spatters. To prepare materials like (stainless) steel, aluminium and wood, different surface preparation techniques can be used.

WHAT TYPES OF SURFACE PREPARATION ARE USED?

Surface preparation is a vital step in any construction or renovation project, as it ensures a smooth and durable finish. Various types of techniques and materials are employed to achieve the desired results.

ABRASIVE BLAST CLEANING

One commonly used method in surface preparation is abrasive blasting. This technique entails utilizing abrasive materials like sand, shot, or glass beads to thoroughly clean and roughen the surface. By doing so, any contaminants, rust, or old coatings are effectively removed, leaving behind an ideal surface for the application of new coatings or paints. Abrasive blasting is a highly efficient and versatile method that can be employed in various industries and applications, including automotive, construction, shipbuilding, and metal fabrication, among others. It is especially beneficial for surfaces that require thorough cleaning and surface profiling to ensure optimal adhesion of coatings. The abrasive materials used in this process are propelled with high-pressure compressed air or water to achieve the desired level of surface cleanliness and roughness. The selection of suitable abrasive material and blasting parameters is crucial to achieve the desired surface preparation results. Overall, abrasive blasting is a widely used technique that significantly improves the quality and durability of coatings, making it an indispensable step in many industrial processes.

CHEMICAL CLEANING

Another technique is chemical cleaning, which involves the use of chemicals to dissolve and remove grease, oil, and other contaminants. This method is especially useful for surfaces that cannot withstand abrasive blasting or require delicate handling. Mechanical methods, such as grinding or sanding, are also used to smoothen rough surfaces and remove imperfections. These methods can be employed on various surfaces, including concrete, metal, wood, and even plastics. Overall, careful consideration of the type of surface and its specific requirements is crucial in determining the most suitable surface preparation technique. By choosing the appropriate method, one can ensure an excellent foundation for a flawless and long-lasting finish.

POWER TOOL SURFACE PREPARATION

MontiPower power tools are the solution to all your surface preparation problems. The tools of MontiPower do the same job as the usual techniques for surface prep, but better, more effective and without all the additional disadvantages.

Our specially designed technology with portable, semi-automatic machines not only ensures that the surface is cleaned, but also creates the roughness or surface profile for optimal adhesion layer for the new coating. It makes MontiPower’s power tools the alternative to ‘sandblasting‘ for smaller areas or when regulations do not allow the use of loose abrasives in the open field or where loose abrasive blasting is less productive.

We offer highly effective solutions for preparing surfaces with our Bristle Blaster®. Rust, paint, mill scale; removing the various types of dirt has never been easier. Moreover, with the use of MontiPower’s surface preparation tools, you are no longer dependent on external parties; from now on, you will be preparing surfaces all by yourself. With our wide range of rotating, patented bristles, you will always find a solution for your own specific situation at MontiPower. It makes an investment in MontiPower’s power tools the perfect investment that will save you both time and money in the short term.

SODA BLASTING

Soda blasting is a mild form of abrasive blasting using sodium bicarbonate particles and compressed air, which has a gentler effect than sandblasting.

Soda blasting involves the use of compressed air to blast particles of sodium bicarbonate with a much lower intensity than traditional abrasive blasting techniques, such as sandblasting. Soda blasting is a more gentle form of abrasive blasting. It is used to clean, strip and finish surfaces in which it causes less damage and doesn’t create hazardous substances or dust.

WHAT IS SODA BLASTING?

Soda blasting is a type of abrasive blasting which uses sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) as its abrasive media. This method is often used to remove paint or other surface coatings from different surfaces. Additionally, it is a non-chemical, non-abrasive, non-toxic, and non-destructive way to clean and restore surfaces to a like-new finish. Soda blasting has been used on a variety of surfaces from antiques to industrial parts. In addition, this method is much more eco-friendly than traditional sandblasting as it does not cause the environment damage that sandblasting can.

HOW DOES SODA BLASTING WORK?

Soda blasting works by shooting pressurized sodium bicarbonate particles particles, also known as baking soda, through a high-pressure nozzle onto a surface. The soda strips away dirt without damaging underneath, due to its low impact. It is a useful technique that can clean many surfaces, especially delicate ones without causing harm.

ADVANTAGES OF SODA BLASTING

The advantage of soda blasting is that it causes much less damage in comparison to other forms of abrasive blasting. It is also much cleaner and environmentally friendly.

DISADVANTAGES OF SODA BLASTING

There are some disadvantages with this soda blasting, the potential for hazardous dust exposure, the risk of intensifying surface contamination, and the potential for costly overspray. Soda blasting is not recommended for surfaces made of electrical equipment, wood, soft metals or plastic since it could damage these materials.

COMMON TOOLS FOR SODA BLASTING

There are several tools used when soda blasting, an air compressor, an air cooler and moisture separator, a blast pot, hose and nozzle.

WHAT MEDIA IS USED FOR SODA BLASTING?

The media used for soda blasting is sodium bicarbonate particles, the three commercial grades are the Natrium 150, Natrium 260 and Natrium 300, with the number representing the approximate median particle size in microns.

IS SODA BLASTING SAFE?

Soda blasting is a safe and eco-friendly method for removing paint and rust from surfaces. The baking soda used is generally perfectly safe, so there’s no risk of exposing the environment—or yourself—to any harmful substances. In comparison to sandblasting, soda blasting is way more safe for the environment. It is also non toxic and non abrasive.  

ALTERNATIVE TOOLS TO SODA BLASTING: THE BRISTLE BLASTER® AND MBX®

The Bristle Blaster® and MBX® from MontiPower are the new developments in the field of surface preparation. Due to the specially developed technology with patented brushes, the power tools are the perfect alternatives for the existing blasting equipment.

With the use of the Bristle Blaster® and MBX® from MontiPower, blasting with different types of loose abrasives is a thing of the past for smaller areas and difficult to access areas. The tools are easy to use, are – unlike blasting – completely safe and very effective. Not only in cleaning surfaces, but also in processing them.

With their impact, the brushes of the power tools create a profile on the surface that can be compared to the surface profile that is created after blasting. In this way, MontiPower tools are the ideal alternative to sandblasting.

HOW DO MONTIPOWER ABRASIVE BRUSHES WORK?

The Bristle Blaster® and MBX® from MontiPower are hand-operated tools, which are equipped with a rotating brush. These specially designed brushes are characterized by their sharpened flexible tips with kneed ends.

By rotating the brushes at a low RPM, the different types of surfaces are processed and cleaned easily, quickly and effectively. The kneed tips of the brushes play an important role in this. These points are held back for a very short time during the rotation of the Bristle Blaster Brush by the so-called ‘accelerator bar’. Due to this short interruption, the points – partly due to the high speed at which the brush rotates – are released with great power from behind the accelerator bar. This technique ensures that the curved tips of the brushes are immediately retracted upon contact with the surface, effectively cleaning the surface and also providing it with the characteristic micro-structure. It makes MontiPower tools the ideal surface preparation method for many sectors, and a great alternative to blasting with abrasives.

ALTERNATIVE TO BLASTING WITH ABRASIVES IN DIFFERENT SECTORS

With their many advantages, our power tools ensure that they are the ideal alternative to cleaning with abrasives for many markets. As mentioned, the traditional ways of blasting can be harmful to humans and animals, but also damaging to the environment. It makes the Bristle Blaster® and MBX® from MontiPower, among other things, an excellent alternative for surface preparation in the maritime and industrial sector.

In addition, the convenience and effectiveness of the various power tools play an important role in many sectors. A good example of this is the work in public infrastructure. The blasting of bridges, tracks and highways, among other things, is a very time-consuming and labor-intensive job, which is subject to a lot of pressure because of the time. When blasting these objects, workers are also exposed to various small particles and possible chemicals. With the use of the Bristle Blaster® and MBX® from MontiPower, abrasive blasting is a thing of the past.

DRY ICE BLASTING

Dry ice blasting, or CO2 blasting is a technique of cleaning where solid CO2 is accelerated in a pressurized air flow and focused on a surface to clean it.

This technique is a very clean alternative compared to other blast cleaning methods. It can be used to clean surfaces. It is used to get rid of dirt, oil, paint, or strip pollutants from a surface. Dry ice blasting doesn’t cause contaminants to build up in the waste and dramatically lowers the secondary waste that needs to be thrown away.

WHAT IS DRY ICE BLASTING

Dry ice blasting is a process which utilizes solid carbon dioxide (CO2) pellets, known as dry ice, blasted at high speeds to clean surfaces. This method is sometimes referred to as dry ice cleaning, cryogenic blasting, or CO2 cleaning. When the pellets hit the surface the dry ice sublimates (or goes from a solid state into gas) and loosens dirt, oil, grease, and other contaminants.

This process can be used to clean a variety of surfaces, from nonporous surfaces such as metals, chrome, machinery, and conveyor belts to porous surfaces such as carpets and upholstery. Dry ice blasting is a dry and non-abrasive process that is safe and effective for a variety of industrial and commercial applications.

HOW DOES DRY ICE BLASTING BLASTING WORK?

As mentioned before, dry Ice Blasting is a clean blasting technique that is used across many industries. Dry Ice blasting is a cleaning and surface preparation method that works on the principle of accelerated particles making contact with a surface and sublimating, or evaporating, on contact.

To perform Dry Ice blasting, solid CO2 particles are propelled using compressed air onto any surface, where the particles sublimate on contact, taking any unwanted debris from the surface. The method is highly effective and safe for the environment because the particles leave no chemical residue and typically present no secondary waste disposal problems. For these reasons, Dry Ice blasting is one of the most successful blasting techniques out there, and is suitable for a variety of industrial and commercial applications.

ADVANTAGES OF DRY ICE BLASTING

The main advantage of dry ice blasting is that it is a non-abrasive form of cleaning. This means that it will not damage the surface to be cleaned, while still being effective at removing dirt and grime. Additionally, dry ice blasting does not require the use of chemicals or water, so it is more energy efficient and environmentally friendly.

DISADVANTAGES OF DRY ICE BLASTING

One of the main drawbacks of dry ice blasting is its cost. This method can be more expensive than other forms of blasting since it requires specialized equipment and training. Additionally, as it is a cryogenic technology, the extreme cold temperatures produced by dry ice can damage delicate components of the item being cleaned. Dry ice is also a relatively limited resource since it only exists in places where it is mined or produced.

COMMON TOOLS FOR DRY ICE BLASTING

Dry ice blasting requires specialized equipment such as high pressure cleaners, blasting wand and safety equipment. This makes it less flexible in comparison to our Bristle Blaster® and MBX®.  This means that the cost for equipment used for dry ice blasting is high so this is a huge disadvantage.

WHAT MEDIA IS USED FOR DRY ICE BLASTING?

The media used for dry ice blasting is solid carbon dioxide (CO2) pellets. They are rice grain shaped and have a diameter of 2-3 mm. It is also known as frozen CO2.

IS DRY ICE BLASTING SAFE?

Dry Ice Blasting is a safe and non-toxic solution for a variety of different industries. This form of media blasting utilizes dry ice pellets to clean and degrease a variety of surfaces. At temperatures of -109 degrees Fahrenheit, dry ice pellets lower the surface of what they clean to temperatures too cold for bacteria, mold, and other contaminants to survive. This makes dry ice blasting a safe, non-toxic, and effective alternative to traditional dry media blasting or chemical solutions. Additionally, dry ice blasting produces no waste or run off, thus allowing for a low-impact solution to many industrial cleaning needs.

ALTERNATIVE TOOLS TO DRY ICE BLASTING: THE BRISTLE BLASTER® AND MBX®

The Bristle Blaster® and MBX® from MontiPower are the new developments in the field of surface preparation. Due to the specially developed technology with patented brushes, the power tools are the perfect alternatives for the existing blasting equipment.

With the use of the Bristle Blaster® and MBX® from MontiPower, blasting with different types of loose abrasives is a thing of the past for smaller areas and difficult to access areas. The tools are easy to use, are – unlike blasting – completely safe and very effective. Not only in cleaning surfaces, but also in processing them.

With their impact, the brushes of the power tools create a profile on the surface that can be compared to the surface profile that is created after blasting. In this way, MontiPower tools are the ideal alternative to sandblasting.

HOW DO MONTIPOWER ABRASIVE BRUSHES WORK?

The Bristle Blaster® and MBX® from MontiPower are hand-operated tools, which are equipped with a rotating brush. These specially designed brushes are characterized by their sharpened flexible tips with kneed ends.

By rotating the brushes at a low RPM, the different types of surfaces are processed and cleaned easily, quickly and effectively. The kneed tips of the brushes play an important role in this. These points are held back for a very short time during the rotation of the Bristle Blaster Brush by the so-called ‘accelerator bar’. Due to this short interruption, the points – partly due to the high speed at which the brush rotates – are released with great power from behind the accelerator bar. This technique ensures that the curved tips of the brushes are immediately retracted upon contact with the surface, effectively cleaning the surface and also providing it with the characteristic micro-structure. It makes MontiPower tools the ideal surface preparation method for many sectors, and a great alternative to blasting with abrasives.

ALTERNATIVE TO BLASTING WITH ABRASIVES IN DIFFERENT SECTORS

With their many advantages, our power tools ensure that they are the ideal alternative to cleaning with abrasives for many markets. As mentioned, the traditional ways of blasting can be harmful to humans and animals, but also damaging to the environment. It makes the Bristle Blaster® and MBX® from MontiPower, among other things, an excellent alternative for surface preparation in the maritime and industrial sector.

In addition, the convenience and effectiveness of the various power tools play an important role in many sectors. A good example of this is the work in public infrastructure. The blasting of bridges, tracks and highways, among other things, is a very time-consuming and labor-intensive job, which is subject to a lot of pressure because of the time. When blasting these objects, workers are also exposed to various small particles and possible chemicals. With the use of the Bristle Blaster® and MBX® from MontiPower, abrasive blasting is a thing of the past.

10 types of abrasive blasting

There are several types of blasting methods, in this article we will tell more about the differences and different types of blasting methods.

Bristle blasting

The Bristle Blaster® and MBX® from MontiPower are the new developments in the field of surface preparation. Due to the specially developed technology with patented brushes, the power tools are the perfect alternatives for the existing blasting equipment.

With the use of the Bristle Blaster® and MBX® from MontiPower, blasting with different types of loose abrasives is a thing of the past for smaller areas and difficult to access areas. The tools are easy to use, are – unlike blasting – completely safe and very effective. Not only in cleaning surfaces, but also in processing them.
With their impact, the brushes of the power tools create a profile on the surface that can be compared to the surface profile that is created after blasting. In this way, MontiPower tools are the ideal alternative to sandblasting.

Bead blasting

Bead blasting has become an increasingly popular method of surface treatment. It is an effective and efficient method for removing dirt and oxidation from different materials.

There are various surface preparation techniques available to use and choose from. Abrasive blasting is the most well-know form of surface preparation. This method is often used for removing coatings, mill scale, paint and other dirt. In most cases, abrasive blasting involves applying air and an abrasive media with great force to the surface. This results in the removal of the material from the object. There are many different types of media to blast with. A few examples of blasting techniques with different media are: sandblasting, vapor blasting, vacuum blasting, wheel blasting and bead blasting. All these options have their own advantages and disadvantages. It this article, we will focus on bead blasting.

Centrifugal blasting

Centrifugal blasting is a type of surface finishing process where a metal surface is blasted by an abrasive material that is propelled by a centrifugal force. The process sprays the abrasive material onto the surface at a high velocity. This process is commonly used to remove scale, corrosion and burrs from a metal surface. In addition, it can be used to clean, roughen or texturize a surface or as a form of shot peening. Centrifugal blasting also provides a unique way to etch and debur surfaces. Many surface preparation projects may require manual cleaning if centrifugal blasting is not used.

Dry ice blasting

Dry ice blasting, or CO2 blasting is a technique of cleaning where solid CO2 is accelerated in a pressurized air flow and focused on a surface to clean it.

This technique is a very clean alternative compared to other blast cleaning methods. It can be used to clean surfaces. It is used to get rid of dirt, oil, paint, or strip pollutants from a surface. Dry ice blasting doesn’t cause contaminants to build up in the waste and dramatically lowers the secondary waste that needs to be thrown away.

Pencil blasting

Pencil blasting is a process of using a technique similar to “burning in” with a pencil-shaped brush. This type of blasting is often used as a way to get into areas of difficult access where heavier sandblasting is not recommended or possible. By choosing the correct material, size and shape of the media used in the process, it is possible to achieve clean, smooth finishes with minimal to no warping or crack damage. It is a common choice for the repair or blasting of raw metals, masonry, wood, plastic and other materials, as it is a more gentle and precise process than heavier blasting methods.

Sandblasting

Sandblasting involves blasting a combination of sand and air under high pressure onto the surface that has to be prepared or cleaned. Due to the high force with which the sand is applied to the surface, mill scale, dirt or any coatings are easily removed. Moreover, the sand creates a structure in the surface, which makes it easy to apply a new layer. However, despite its advantages, sandblasting also has a large number of disadvantages. For example, sandblasting is very dangerous to our health. But why is sandblasting actually so dangerous? And what are the risks?

Soda blasting

Soda blasting is a mild form of abrasive blasting using sodium bicarbonate particles and compressed air, which has a gentler effect than sandblasting.

Soda blasting involves the use of compressed air to blast particles of sodium bicarbonate with a much lower intensity than traditional abrasive blasting techniques, such as sandblasting. Soda blasting is a more gentle form of abrasive blasting. It is used to clean, strip and finish surfaces in which it causes less damage and doesn’t create hazardous substances or dust.

Steel grit blasting

Steel grit blasting is a process where metal is blasted with a small amount of compressed air and steel particles. This process can be used to clean, strip, and prepare surfaces before a fresh coat of paint or finish can be applied. The steel grit blasting process is a popular choice for many projects since it is both less abrasive and cost effective. Additionally, steel grit blasting is versatile and can be used on many different surfaces. This process is often used on metals, plastics, and wood. The steel grit blasting process is a quick and effective way to change the look of a surface by removing rust, old paint and any other contaminants that may have collected on the surface over time.

Vacuum blasting

Vacuum blasting is an abrasive blasting process that uses a vacuum to capture material during the blasting process. This process is gaining popularity in many industries due to its ability to reduce air pollution, dust, and other airborne hazards. Vacuum blasting is a dry process meaning that little or no media, cleaning agents, or water are used in the blasting process. Vacuum blasting works by using large amounts of vacuum pressure to capture the blasting media as the blasting takes place. The vacuum then filters, cleans and collects the blasting media, making it possible to reuse the same media for multiple jobs. Vacuum blasting is an effective and environmentally-friendly option for surface cleaning, paint and rust removal, and most other abrasive blasting applications.

Wet blasting

Wet blasting is a process used for the surface preparation of metals, plastics, or other materials. During this process, a high-pressure abrasive slurry is delivered to the surface. This slurry is composed of a mix of an abrasive (such as aluminum oxide or silicon carbide), water, and a detergent (which helps keep the slurry suspended and separates the abrasive debris from the surface being treated). The combination of the high-pressure stream and the suspended abrasive in the slurry blasts the surface, providing a superior surface finish that can be used for various finishes or preparation for powder coating or other processes. Wet blasting is a much more efficient process than dry blasting and produces less dust and debris, making it ideal for use in sensitive environments such as aerospace or electronics.

What is wheel blasting?

For preparing and cleaning steel surfaces, there are several methods that can be used. For example, there are different methods of abrasive blasting, which are often used for removing coatings, mill scale, paint and other dirt. This abrasive blasting is done in most cases in the same way. It involves applying a combination of air and an abrasive with great force to the surface, causing the material to separate from the object. The best known example of this is sandblasting, but also blasting with other abrasives such as glass, plastic or vapor blasting are possible. But there is another form of blasting that can be used for this purpose: wheel blasting.

How does wheel blasting work?

Wheel blasting is similar to the aforementioned other forms of abrasive blasting in many ways, but it also has a number of clear differences. Wheel blasting does not use air under high pressure to apply the abrasive to the steel object, but the abrasive is put in motion by means of a rotating wheel. Different types of abrasives can be used when preparing or cleaning steel with wheel blasting. Among them are blasting grit, corundum, glass and plastic.

The benefits of wheel blasting

Wheel blasting has several advantages over similar other forms of abrasive blasting. One of the main advantages of wheel blasting is its highly efficient operation. The abrasive applied to the surface by means of the rotating wheel is immediately picked up and reused during the preparing process. This initially reduces the consumption of the abrasive, but also means that less dirt remains at the end of the cleaning process. Another advantage of wheel blasting is that the force and speed at which the abrasive is applied to the object can be adjusted. This makes it easy to use the abrasive economically, but when necessary, with heavier soiling, a greater force can be chosen. In addition, wheel blasting machines are relatively fast and efficient in preparing steel surfaces compared to other forms of abrasive blasting.

The disadvantages of wheel blasting

Wheel blasting, in addition to the aforementioned advantages, also has a number of disadvantages. First of all, wheel blasting machines are in most cases for steel surfaces that are relatively flat. When there is a lot of unevenness, wheel blasting is less effective. Also, wheel blasting is not to be used with every type of surface. Due to the relatively high speed at which the abrasive is applied to the object, damage can quickly occur. For more fragile surfaces, e.g. vapor blasting will be preferred. Finally, the last disadvantage of wheel blasting: the maintenance costs. Given the fact that wheel blasting machines contain many mechanical parts, which can be easily damaged by the use of abrasives, these parts often require maintenance. This results in high maintenance costs, which makes wheel blasting a relatively expensive method of surface preparation.

Corrosion of steel pipelines

Corrosion of steel pipelines is a common process that is unfortunately difficult to counteract. To keep the condition of the pipelines intact, it is necessary to remove the corrosion in time. When the corrosion is more persistent, the choice is often made to replace the pipeline in its entirety. A demanding and also expensive job, costing billions of dollars per year worldwide.

There are various types of corrosion in pipelines. Each type has its own characteristics and ways to combat it. But what is corrosion exactly? How does corrosion occur in pipelines? And what are the different types of corrosion that we can distinguish?

What is corrosion?

Corrosion is a deterioration of metal as a result of a chemical process. This chemical reaction is caused by contact with various factors from the environment. Often corrosion is confused with rust. However, corrosion is a broader concept than corrosion. With rust, the deterioration of the surface occurs specifically through a reaction of oxygen in combination with damp. As a result, the well-known visible brown layer appears on the metal surface. With corrosion, this deterioration can be caused by a chemical reaction of several factors. There are various forms of corrosion in pipelines. But what are the most common types of corrosion in pipelines, and what characterizes these types of corrosion?

Oxygen corrosion

Oxygen corrosion is the other name for the already mentioned rust. It is the most common and also the most visible type of corrosion in pipelines. As mentioned, oxygen corrosion is caused by a chemical reaction between oxygen and water or another form of damp. From this reaction, a so-called oxide skin is formed, which we know better as the brown layer that attacks the metal surface. An important characteristic of the oxide skin of oxygen corrosion is the open structure of the layer. This ensures that oxygen and water continue to reach the surface easily, so that the steel will slowly but surely become completely corroded. For this reason, stainless steel or aluminum is used more often in various sectors; these materials have a denser oxide skin, which makes oxygen corrosion less likely to occur.

Uniform corrosion

Uniform corrosion is broadly comparable to oxygen corrosion. Uniform corrosion also results from a chemical reaction between damp and oxygen. This form is characterized by the – the name says it all – uniform distribution of the corrosion over the entire steel surface. Uniform corrosion is considered by many to be the least dangerous form of corrosion. By taking measurements or from previous experience, the speed and extent of corrosion formation can often be predicted well. As a result, the development and consequences of uniform corrosion can often be better estimated than those of other forms of corrosion in pipelines.

Acid corrosion

In the case of acid corrosion, the combination of acid and metal react together to form hydrogen gas and metal salt. To better understand this, it is good to first look at what is actually meant by acid. This has to do with the pH value of water. Normal drinking water has a pH value of between 7 and 9.5. Does the water have a pH value below 7? Then we speak of an acid. When this acid comes into contact with metal, corrosion occurs in the form of hydrogen gas and metal salt. The degree of corrosion depends on the tension of the material. Each material has its own voltage, which can cause a current to flow between several materials. If the voltage of the material has a lower voltage than hydrogen, acid corrosion occurs.

Galvanic corrosion

The voltage of metals that were briefly discussed in the case of acid corrosion also play a major role in galvanic corrosion. This type of corrosion can occur when two different metals are in close proximity to each other. If these metals come close together, in combination with water or a similar conductor, the reaction that is set in motion will result in corrosion. In this process, more corrosion will occur on the metal with a lower voltage than on the metal with a higher voltage.

Stress corrosion

Unlike, for example, oxygen corrosion, stress corrosion is very difficult to predict and only detect at a late stage. This form of corrosion occurs particularly with tension from within, for example with dents or welds. But this is not the only factor involved in stress corrosion. When the combination of chlorides, high temperatures and internal tension come together, stress corrosion will occur, and the material will crack. Whereas oxygen corrosion and uniform corrosion occur less quickly and frequently in RVS, stress corrosion occurs more frequently in RVS.

Stray current corrosion

Stray current corrosion is a form of corrosion similar to galvanic corrosion. Stray current is electric current that flows from a conductor back to the soil or surrounding environment. The difference from galvanic corrosion is in the fact that it is not the other metal, but the actual current from the conductor that causes corrosion to occur in the steel pipeline.

Pitting Corrosion

Pitting corrosion occurs in the oxide layer that may have developed in the steel pipeline. This form of corrosion occurs mainly in the areas where the oxide layer is damaged. In addition, pitting corrosion can also occur as a result of the incorporation of chloride ions or metal particles. The corrosion that occurs in the oxide layer causes small pits to form in the steel, but these are often barely detectable at first glance.

Crevice corrosion

Similar to pitting corrosion is crevice corrosion. In this case, the corrosion does not occur in damaged surface, but in cracks. When the surface comes into contact with a conductor and also makes electrical contact with the crack, crevice corrosion will occur. As with pitting corrosion, the corrosion will develop more and more strongly and the crack will become deeper and deeper.

Intergranular corrosion

Intergranular corrosion is one of the most insidious forms of corrosion. Due to the fact that this type of corrosion is molecular, it is not or hardly visible to the naked eye. On the surface of the steel pipeline, little or no corrosion occurs, but from the inside the material is increasingly corroded. This causes the metal to become increasingly brittle, which in turn causes the metal to lose its cohesion and may eventually cause major damage.

Microbial corrosion

Microbial corrosion is one of the most unknown forms of corrosion. Nevertheless, this form of corrosion is very relevant to steel pipes, as microbacterial corrosion is especially common in pipelines. This has to do with the fact that in most cases, the bacteria thrive in oxygen-free spaces. The corrosion is caused by the bacteria secreting a substance, which has a corrosive effect on the steel. Microbacterial corrosion is most comparable to acid corrosion, but in this case the corrosion is not caused by an acid but by the bacteria.