We now have vapour blasting available at Wolfe Worx!
History
The vapour blasting process uses a water-borne abrasive, which gives a much finer finish because the water flushes the media and softens the abrasive quality. No media gets into the component, and no dust is created, so you get nothing but a smooth and clean finish. The process was developed during World War II, and it was initially used to strengthen parts by creating surface tension. In fact, Rolls Royce used this same process to strengthen their turbine blades before assembling them into jet engines.
How it Works
Vapour blasting is also known as wet blasting or liquid honing, and it is very popular in Britain for bike restoration. The process creates a slurry of micro beads, water, and air, and then this is propelled at high speeds towards the surface of a metal part. This seals the surface with a micro finish that helps it resist staining and oxidation, so not only does it restore, but it also protects. The water used in this process has a hydraulic cushioning effect, which softens the impact of the micro beads on the surface of the metal, and provides a lustrous satin finish. Finishes will vary from different alloys and manufacturers, but all are good. Aluminum castings are particularly well suited to vapour blasting, and have a fantastic outcome.
Vapour blasting is ideal for the following:
• Degreasing and surface finishing of components in the automotive, reconditioning & maintenance industries
• Cleaning of dies & moulds
• Removal of paint, rust, scale, carbon & similar deposits in engineering industries
• Surface preparation prior to bonding, re-painting or re-coating
• Satin finishing of stainless steels & other special materials
• Cleaning of PCB’s & electrical connectors
• Removal of small burrs from manufactured components
Bring in your part or give us a call for more info!