Shot blasting is a key factor in the fabrication process. It is essential so that a clean finish can be provided in order for welding to be undertaken. It also enables a keyed surface to be produced so that paint can be accepted by the prepared façade.
The Process of Shot Blasting
Shot blasting is undertaken by shot being fired or ‘blasted’ directly at steel, yes, the process is all in the name. The force of the shot being blasted at the surface of the steel displaces dirt and scale, therefore cleaning the steel and preparing it for the welding process. This is due to the indentations caused by the shot repeatedly hitting the steel surface, creating a rough texture, which is approximately 70 microns deeps. Due to this abrasion, it enables paint to stick properly and long term to the steel surface, which creates protection and aids longevity to a component part.
Shot Blasting and Electroless Nickel Plating
The shot blasting preparation is often performed prior to the electroless nickel plating process, but for this to happen the surface preparation must be high quality and thorough, which is why shot blasting is used. To achieve the ultimate final surface finish, chemical cleaning and activation processes, such as aluminium oxide 180-220 grit are used. By choosing us to undertake your shot blasting and electroless nickel plating solutions, you know that the standards met will be the highest every time. At us, the stainless steel shot blasting booth has the capacity to take 216m³. This minimises the particles which settle on the component parts during their shot blasting or heat treatment processes.