Process 3: Vapour Bead Blast - for ultimate functionality and appearance

This process uses particles (smooth glass beads) in a jet of compressed air and hot water with special detergents (heavily corroded items may need preliminary dry blasting). Usually used for machine parts and alloy castings to render them clean and ready for inspection prior to refitting. This leaves a slightly burnished finish on iron, steel or high tensile alloy castings; softer alloys will have a more satin appearance. Not usually used for small components – see Process 4.

Stage 1: Pre-soak and pressure wash if there’s loose dirt, grease or other adherents. Dismantle components if required.

Stage 2: If components with oilways or other passages – blow through with compressed air. Option for ultrasonic washing to clean interior of passages. If necessary plug holes with hard rubber taper plugs and mask areas (abrasive particles occasionally can penetrate).

Stage 3: Wet bead blast to reveal clean base metal leaving burnished or satin finish. Polishing available if required. Subject to test, paint can be stripped or retained (if hard and firmly adhering). Plating will not normally strip.

Stage 4: Pressure flush and wash to remove as much glass bead as possible, remove plugs.

Stage 5: Dry with compressed air. Pack in heavy gauge polythene bag with silica-gel sachet to inhibit corrosion.

Many customers want a ‘best possible’ job, but others do not require this standard which will reduce the cost. For advice or other processes and services available, please phone John on 020 8766 7164 or e-mail john@icmhome.org.uk.