So you’ve heard all about wheel blasting cabinets, and now you want to better understand what wheel blasting is and its benefits to your surface finishing process? Join us as we share our expert knowledge on all things wheel blasting…
What is wheel blasting?
Put simply, wheel blasting, also known as wheel blasting finishing, is an industrial surface preparation process where abrasive media is propelled at high speeds onto a workpiece’s surface using a rotating wheel mechanism, also known as a wheel blasting cabinet. The goal is to clean, polish, or prepare the surface for further processing, such as coating or painting.
So, now you know what wheel blasting is, but what are the main benefits of this finishing method?
What are the benefits of wheel blasting?
Wheel blasting actually has a wide range of benefits, which include:
1. High efficiency
Speed: Wheel blasting cabinets are faster than many other surface preparation methods, making it ideal for large scale operations or when quick turnaround times are needed
High throughput: It can also process large volumes of parts or extensive surface areas in a relatively short time
2. Consistent results
Uniform finish: The automated nature of wheel blasting cabinets ensure a consistent, uniform surface finish across all parts, reducing variability and improving quality control
Repeatability: The process can be easily repeated with the same parameters, ensuring consistent results across multiple batches, and it can also handle complex shapes and sizes
3. Versatility
Material compatibility: Wheel blasting can be used on various materials, including metals, concrete, and composites, making it a versatile option for different industries
Surface preparation: It also effectively removes rust, scale, old paint, and other contaminants, as well as creating surface profiles that enhance the adhesion of coatings, paints, or other treatments
4. Cost effective
Reduced labour costs: Automation reduces the need for manual labour, lowering overall costs
Minimal waste: The abrasive media can often be recycled, reducing material waste and operating costs
5. Improved surface properties
Enhanced durability: By removing surface impurities and creating a uniform profile, wheel blasting can improve the durability and longevity of the material, especially when preparing it for coating or painting
Surface strengthening: In some cases, the peening effect from the abrasive impact can improve the material’s fatigue resistance, increasing its overall strength
6. A sustainable option
Controlled process: Unlike chemical cleaning methods, wheel blasting cabinets do not involve harmful chemicals, making it a more environmentally friendly option
Dust collection: Modern wheel blasting cabinets are equipped with dust collection units, minimising airborne particles and reducing environmental impact
7. Automation and integration
Easy integration: Wheel blasting systems can be easily integrated into existing production lines, enhancing overall productivity without requiring significant changes to the workflow
Customisable: These automated systems can be tailored to specific needs, with adjustable settings for speed, intensity, and media type, allowing for precise control over the finishing process
Now you know what wheel blasting is and its many benefits, why not take a look at our range of wheel blasting machines. Here at ActOn Finishing, we pride ourselves on supplying quality wheel blasting equipment and cabinets to enhance your finishing methods and processes.
To find out more about our machines, download our brochure and get in touch with us to start achieving great finishing results.