At some point during the course of their lifespan, sheet metal products will succumb to rust, dirt, a build-up of debris, grime, and more appearing on the surface of the metal.
One of the most effective ways of cleaning dirty and oxidised materials is through the process of shot blasting.
At Morfabrication, we use the technique of shot blasting to reform older sheet metal products that are in need of some TLC, and we use it as part of our overall fabrication process to remove dirt, debris, and potential oxides from the surface of the sheet metal we’re working with in order to achieve a perfectly smooth and high-quality finish.
In this post we look at shot blasting in more detail, some of the reasons why it is such a popular fabrication technique, and how the process works.
Shot Blasting Explained
Shot blasting definition – an abrasive cleaning method that removes dirt, debris, and oxides from sheet metal. High-velocity pellets made of steel, aluminium, etc., are used to remove rust, old paint, and other materials from metals to provide a clean and even finish before they move on to the next stage of fabrication.
Shot blasting is the perfect process to help remove irregularities from a range of metals and even concrete.
Shooting media (ie steel or aluminium beads) out at high velocity knocks the surface you are working with free of debris and other potentially harmful material, making it an ideal solution that allows us, as fabricators, to clean and prepare surfaces thoroughly.
Shot blasting can be vital as a fabrication step before painting or coating of the material takes place, helping to keep things smooth and consistent to provide a quality and even finish.
Overall, it is an effective and efficient procedure that helps improve a metal’s overall appearance.
If you’re interested in finding out more about the fabrication services we offer and the fabrication processes available for sheet metal works, make sure to check out our post on Stud Welding.
How Shot Blasting Works
Shot blasting works by using a machine to propel round materials (shot media) against the metal’s surface. The force of the shot media hitting the metal’s surface is enough to remove any contaminants and improve the overall finish.
However, not all shot media is suitable for all materials, and you must choose the right one to suit your requirements and the metal you’re looking to clean.
To ensure the right shot media, you will need to consider the size and the hardness, as these elements determine how much of the surface material will be removed in order to remove the debris and leave you with a polished, clean surface.
Once the shot media has been chosen, a centrifugal wheel creates a force that is used to propel the blasting media into the shot blasting equipment. This will typically look and feel like a nozzle gun that sheet metal fabricators will then use to direct the flow of the media across the sheet metal’s surface, directing it to areas that require particular cleaning.
Note: Shot blasting is a safe process to carry out, much safer than sandblasting, which can create a substantial volume of dust particles that can be inhaled.
However, we would always recommend working with experienced and knowledgeable fabricators, as this process requires precision and knowledge of the equipment and materials to achieve a high-quality outcome.
Materials suitable for cleaning
Sheet metal that is suitable to be placed under the shot blasting process includes:
- Carbon steel
- Stainless steel
- Cast iron
- Copper, and
- Concrete.
Shot blasting media you can opt for include:
- Steel (steel beads are often the standard choice and suitable for most materials)
- Aluminium
- Zinc
- Copper.
Benefits of Shot Blasting
Environmentally friendly – leaves no dust particles and creates no wastage. There is also no need for the use of harsh chemicals.
Efficient – It is a quick process that is great for large surfaces that need to be cleaned quickly.
Simple to use – the piece of machinery itself is very straightforward and simple to operate.
Durable – shot blasting is designed to remove the dirt from the sheet metal’s surface without damaging or negatively affecting the quality of the actual material.
Improves material’s appearance – removing dust and grime from the sheet metal to make it more aesthetically pleasing.
It supports other fabrication processes by preparing the surface for different finishes.
Highlights any defects – spotting surface damage earlier in the fabrication project can save you time and money.
Sheet Metal Fabricators UK
The Morfabrication team uses shot blasting to clean, polish, and prepare materials for the next stage of the fabrication process.
Helping to maintain high-quality and durability, shot blasting is an element that can ultimately affect the final outcome of a metal component or project.
To find out more about the services we offer or if you have a metal project in mind and you’re looking for sheet metal fabricators near me – get in touch with a member of our team today and see how we can help you.
For a FREE, no-obligation quote, call us today at 0191 816 2718 or drop us an email with your requirements to info@morfabrication.com, and we’ll get back to you ASAP.