What Is Soda Blasting, and Where Is It Used?

Soda blasting is a cleaning method similar to sand, bead or grit blasting. The difference is in the materials used as well as the application. The soda used in the process is a type of sodium bicarbonate. Using specialised blasting machinery, soda particles are propelled at high velocity towards the affected surface. On hitting the surface, energy from the soda particles is transferred onto the substance to be removed, causing it to detach. The substrate remains intact.

What Are the Benefits of Soda Blasting?

Soda blasting is recommended for applications where extra cautions are required in protecting the surface because it is a non-abrasive process. What does this mean in practice? This means that it won’t scratch the surface like other blasting media – sand and bead blasting is often likened to rubbing sandpaper onto a surface. These methods may not be best suited for sensitive materials such as aluminium and wood. Minimal preparation is required to start of soda blasting, which saves time and money. Although there may be a need to mask and close areas depending on whether a wet or dry method is applied. The soda particles can be vacuumed or washed away using water. Care and attention may be required in removing and disposing depending on the contaminant.

Applications Requiring the Use of Soda Blasting

One of the first uses of soda blasting involved restoration work on the Statue of Liberty in the 1980s. These days the versatility of soda blasting lends itself to many applications including:

Mechanical

The soda particles act aggressively against the contaminant yet remain gentle with the substrate. It is this feature which makes this cleaning method ideal for equipment and equipment components as the risk of damage to internal mechanisms is greatly reduced. Soda is a natural degreaser, which makes it the blasting media of choice for engines and engine parts.

Food processing

Soda properties include deodorising and neutralising; hence it is perfect for use in food preparation areas, on cooking appliances, and surfaces.

Steel

Sand blasting can cause ferrous materials to rust within hours. When soda blasting is used the risk of rust is greatly reduced allowing more time to recoat.

Paint stripping

Since there is no heat generated during the soda blasting process, paint can be stripped from surfaces without the fear of distortion or rippling.

Soda blasting works well on graffiti removal and boat hull cleaning.

If you’re in need of soda blasting services, our mobile fleet is ready to tackle the toughest jobs in Toronto, Hamilton, Ottawa, London, Burlington, Windsor, Barrie and Northern Ontario. Contact us today to see how we can help with your restoration needs.

Wickens Dry Ice Blasting tackles the toughest jobs across Ontario, offering fire restoration, mould remediation, asbestos abatement, lead paint abatement, and more. Contact us today for a consultation or emergency service!

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