Wet Blasting for Surface Roughness
Controlled, precise and consistent surface roughness
Surface roughness is often quantified using parameters such as Ra (average roughness), Rz (average maximum height), or other parameters defined by manufacturers standards. Instruments like profilometers are commonly used to measure surface roughness and ensure that it meets the specified requirements.
For many customers we work with, a specific surface roughness is an additional requirement of the use of the wet blasting process for another application, such as deburring. These customers often require no substrate change as a result of the process also, something that wet blasting is able to provide.
Wet blasting is used for the process of achieving a specific surface roughness requirement for many follow-on processes such as coating, bonding, to activate the surface, or give high cleanliness.
Wet Blasting Applications for Surface Roughness
Preparation for Coating: Wet blasting can be used to prepare surfaces for coating applications by achieving the desired roughness that enhances coating adhesion.
Surface Cleaning and Rust Removal: Wet blasting is effective for cleaning surfaces and removing rust. The process can be adjusted to achieve a clean surface without excessive roughness.
Deburring: In applications where deburring is the primary goal, wet blasting can be adjusted to provide a controlled and consistent surface finish without compromising the integrity of the workpiece.
Selective Surface Modification: Wet blasting allows for selective surface modification, enabling the targeted removal of material and the creation of specific surface textures.
Aluminium and Delicate Materials: Wet blasting is often preferred for delicate materials like aluminium, where achieving a controlled surface roughness is crucial for maintaining material integrity.
Aerospace Components: In the aerospace industry, wet blasting can be applied to achieve specific surface finishes on components like turbine blades, engine components, landing gear or structural parts as part of a cleaning or coating process.
There are many other industries, components and manufacturers that also need surface roughness requirements as part of their manufacturing or remanufacturing process.
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 Surface Roughness Requirements
Wet blasting can have several benefits when it comes to controlling and improving surface roughness. Some advantages associated with using wet blasting for achieving specific surface finishes are:
Controlled Surface Texture: Wet blasting allows for precise control over the surface texture or roughness. By adjusting parameters such as abrasive type, water pressure, and nozzle distance, operators can achieve the desired level of roughness for a given application.
Consistent Results: Wet blasting provides more consistent and uniform results compared to some dry blasting methods. This is important for applications where a consistent surface roughness is critical for performance, such as in manufacturing or engineering processes.
No Media Embedment: Wet blasting helps minimize abrasive embedment into the surface being treated. This is particularly beneficial for softer materials or sensitive substrates where avoiding damage or deformation is essential.
Surface Cleaning and Smoothing: Wet blasting not only removes contaminants and unwanted materials from surfaces but also helps in smoothing uneven surfaces. This can be advantageous when preparing surfaces for coatings, ensuring better adhesion and a more uniform finish.
Selective Material Removal: The wet blasting process allows for selective material removal, enabling operators to focus on specific areas or features while maintaining the overall surface integrity. This precision is crucial in applications where controlled material removal is required.
Heat Reduction: Wet blasting generates less heat compared to dry blasting methods. This is important when dealing with heat-sensitive materials, as it helps prevent thermal damage while achieving the desired surface roughness.
Dust Suppression: Wet blasting minimizes airborne dust, providing a cleaner and safer working environment. This is advantageous for both operator health and environmental considerations, especially in industrial settings where dust control is a concern.
Surface Profile for Coating Adhesion: Achieving the right surface roughness is critical for proper coating adhesion. Wet blasting creates a surface profile that promotes better adhesion, ensuring coatings adhere effectively to the substrate.
Environmental Considerations: Wet blasting is generally considered more environmentally friendly than dry blasting methods, as it reduces the release of abrasive dust and contaminants into the air. This is particularly important in areas where environmental regulations are stringent.
It's important to note that the effectiveness of wet blasting in achieving specific surface roughness depends on various factors, including the type of abrasive used, the substrate material, and the desired outcome. Adjusting the parameters of the wet blasting process allows for flexibility in meeting the unique requirements of different applications.
Process Driven Solutions for Surface Roughness Requirements
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.