Composite Bonding Preparation
Creation of a clean and uniform surface to prepare a part for bonding
Wet blasting, or vapor blasting as it's also known, can be used as a surface preparation method to enhance bonding in various applications.
This method is particularly advantageous when a controlled, gentle, and clean surface is needed to improve adhesion for bonding applications. Wet blasting materials, such as metals and composites, will remove contaminants and prevent other issues that are faced during manufacturing processes, such as air borne particles, open air exposure aging the surface and any manufacturing oils.
Wet blasting also doesn’t create any static build up, which reduces particles being drawn to the surface of a component.
Wet Blasting Applications for Bonding Preparation
Whilst many industries use our process for bonding of materials, especially different materials to one another, some of the most common applications and industries for our wet blast or vapor blasting are:
Aerospace: Wet blasting is used in the aerospace industry for surface preparation before bonding components, such as composite blades and leading edges, aircraft panels, wings, and structural elements. The controlled and clean surface enhances the performance and integrity of bonded structures.
Automotive Manufacturing: In automotive manufacturing, wet blasting can be employed to prepare surfaces for bonding in applications such as attaching trim components, bonding panels, or joining various materials in the assembly of vehicles, such as rubber gaskets and protection.
Motorsport: Many motorsport teams, such as Redbull Racing, use our wet blasting technology as their preferred method for preparing surfaces for bonding due to the control, cleanliness and accuracy of the process. Wet blasting offers the ideal reactive surfaces for bonding materials, such as composites and metals to one another
Electronic and Semiconductor Manufacturing: Wet blasting is utilized in the electronics industry to prepare surfaces for bonding in the assembly of electronic components. The controlled process ensures the cleanliness required for reliable bonding in electronic devices.
General Manufacturing and Repair: Wet blasting is applied in various manufacturing sectors where strong bonds are essential, such as in the repair and maintenance of industrial equipment, machinery, and structural components.
Each manufacturer will have individual requirements and understanding on process objectives. To see how we could work together on a process and solutions contact us to arrange sample processing on your components.
Benefits of Wet blasting for Composite Bonding
Improved Adhesion: Wet blasting contributes to improved adhesion by creating a clean and properly prepared surface that is reactive and enhances the bonding characteristics of adhesives, coatings, or other materials.
Precise and Controlled Process: Operators have control over key parameters, allowing for a precise and controlled wet blasting process tailored to the specific requirements of bonding applications.
No Surface Damage: Wet blasting is a gentler process that works via flow, not only allowing for a consistent and repeatable process, but also that doesn’t damage the surface or surface fibres of composite materials. When compared to some dry blasting methods, wet blasting minimises the risk of damaging the substrate, and ensures the material's integrity.
Environmentally Friendly: The addition of water in wet blasting reduces airborne dust, making it a more environmentally friendly surface preparation method compared to some dry blasting techniques.
Versatility: Wet blasting can be applied to a variety of materials and surfaces, providing versatility in addressing bonding needs across different industries.
Gentle on Surfaces: Wet blasting offers more control over the process than dry blasting, and as such can be a more gentle process. This is perfect for applications involving delicate material.
Dust Suppression: The addition of water reduces dust, creating a safer and cleaner working environment.
Improved Surface Finish: Wet blasting provides a smoother and more refined surface finish compared to traditional abrasive blasting methods.
In summary, wet blasting is a valuable surface preparation method for enhancing bonding in diverse industrial applications. It provides a clean, controlled, and efficient process to ensure strong and reliable adhesion between materials.
Process Driven Solutions for your bonding prep applications
Our aim is to work with you and supply you the process and solution(s) to meet your requirements.
Our equipment is designed to best utilise our process to meet your requirements. By utilising our years of experience and process knowledge, and combining it with our automated technology, we can provide a complete solution that delivers control and consistency to give you the perfect finish every time.
Contact us to discuss your requirements, and how we can work with you. Or have a look at our solution pages for more information.
We also design and manufacture washing equipment which in many cases complements our wet blasting solutions.
In many applications we have implemented solutions that incorporate both blasting and washing in a one step process which can remove handling steps and increase efficiency.