4.3.2.4 Dry Ice Blasting
4.3.2.4 Dry Ice Blasting
Similar in operation to injector-type abrasive blasting systems, dry ice blasting systems fire CO2 pellets at temperatures of -78.5°C (-109.3°F) onto a part’s surface. The pellets initiate a thermal and mechanical cleaning process by freezing the surface contaminants while the substrate remains at an ambient temperature. As the CO2 pellets sublimate, they increase in volume, thereby dislodging the contaminants. This method is effective for cured adhesives, paint and other contaminants without mechanical abrasion. There is no gritty residue, no additional chemicals and less machine maintenance than traditional blasting cabinets.