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Frequently Asked Questions
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What is Soda Blasting?
Soda blasting is exactly the same process as
abrasive blasting where media is propelled via
compressed air onto the surface to be stripped
or cleaned, only Bicarbonate of Soda is used as
the blasting media instead of traditional
abrasives. The Bicarbonate of Soda used is
specifically formulated for blasting and is
larger than what is normally found in household
kitchens. So not only can it strip paint and
contaminants, it also has the benefit of
cleaning the surface being blasted.
Is Bicarbonate Soda Environmentally safe?
Yes, Bicarbonate of Soda is also known as
Baking Soda and as stated previously is found in
household kitchens. For this reason it makes it
perfect for use in the food industry for
cleaning conveyor systems etc. Whilst the soda
itself does not cause a problem for the
environment, the contaminates or paint being
blasted off can. For this reason in most cases
it is essential to contain or filter what is
being blasted off. Bicarbonate of Soda’s
alkaline properties could be harmful to plants
or vegetation so it is best to ensure all areas
are thoroughly hosed down during the cleanup
process. It should be noted that Soda Blasting
is endorsed by the USDA ( United States Dept of
Agriculture) and the FDA (Food and Drug
Administration) and is Kosher approved.
Is the blasting process noisy?
Put simply, yes it can be. A large diesel
driven compressor is forcing
compressed air and media through what is
essentially a small hole . Soda blasting
operators are required to wear ear protection at
all times during the blasting process and anyone
within the immediate working area should do the
same.
How long does it take ?
The process varies with each job and all
jobs are evaluated at time of consultation. It
should be noted that in many cases Soda Blasting
can greatly reduce the time it would normally
take to either clean or strip the paint in most
applications.
How much does it cost?
Soda blasting is normally charged at an
hourly rate, however in some cases it can be
based on a quotation, Marine vessels are usually
charged by size.
Will it warp my Car Panels?
Soda blasting does not generate the heat
that traditional abrasive blasting does which is
why Soda blasting does not warp or pit car
panels at all.
Is Water Used in the blasting process?
Water is only required in the blasting
process to keep the dust down where required,
however the amount of water used is very little.
In most cases however water is not used. When
water is being used on site and the area being
blasted cannot be contained, Geotextile socks
and drain covers are used to ensure none of the
contaminates being removed can enter the storm
water systems.
Can Soda blasting remove Graffiti?
Most definitely, in fact Soda blasting is a
much more environmentally friendly process as no
harsh chemicals are used. The best bet when
dealing with Graffiti vandals is to remove the
graffiti as soon as it is put there, plus the
paint is much easier to remove when it is
reasonably fresh.
What about clean up and waste disposal?
Clean up is very quick and is done by our
operators. The spent Bicarbonate of Soda and
contaminate that has been removed is usually
swept up and disposed of at most land fill
sites. All hazardous materials are disposed of
at special areas. SBA follow all E.P.A and local
council waste disposal requirements.
What about flash rusting after blasting?
One of the reasons most car enthusiasts love
the soda blasting process is due to there being
no flash rusting after the metal has been
stripped. Soda blasting does not re-profile
metal which eliminates the old problems of flash
rusting. Another added benefit of soda blasting
is that it leaves a protective coating on the
metal that has been stripped which gives you
time to do repairs before painting. When you are
ready to paint you simply hose the vehicle with
water (the soda is water soluble) dry it and
it’s ready for paint, pretty simple really.
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