Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Shot Blast & Sand Blasting?
Shot blasting is a generic term used to describe the treatment of steel – We shot blast to descale, we shot blast to prep for paint. This is an industry term that is widely used primarily when discussing automated equipment. Sand blasting is, in essence, shot blasting. But used primarily in a manual blasting environment. No one really uses “Sand”, we primarily use aluminum oxide, garnet, walnut, or other compounds to prep a surface or remove a substrate.
What is Shot Peening?
Shot peening is a controlled method of shot blasting. We use electrical controls to influence the size and depth of the dent on a piece of steel which reduces residual stresses in the part. This method is used in a variety of industries that require a reduction in fatigue and longer lifespan of parts.
Do you stock replacement parts?
We have stocking programs for specific needs. We always encourage to keep the parts close to a machine for when you need them, but if you are short on space we are happy to stock some important parts should your process require.
Do you guarantee the performance of your parts?
Absolutely! We are always happy to support existing or new equipment in the field. Being expects in the industry, we are able to identify and extinguish potential problems before they become serious issues. Additionally, we support programs that guarantee your machine performance.
Do you manufacture custom parts or other components?
We do. We have in-house engineering and existing drawings to replace current components or provide a better solution for a problematic component.
How does shot blasting equipment work?
We propel steel shot (think small BBs) or grit (think small broken BBs) by means of a spinning wheel. Gravity feeds the shot into the wheel as it propels it at the part. The part is decimated by millions of dents across the entire surface achieving the desired surface finish.
Is there different types of shot blast equipment?
Yes! There are several different types suited for a variety of different needs. From batch style, to roll conveyors, to spinner hanger style, there is a machine available to process virtually any part. Wheel blast is best suited for a high production environment, while airblast is far more precise on where the work is performed. Think Shot gun approach compared to a sniper riffle.
What kinds of media can I put through a shot blast machine?
Media selection is crucial for the machine you are purchasing. Some medias cannot be processed in a wheel blast machine, while others will not be efficient in an air blast machine. You are best to discuss your specific application with a Surface Technologies representative.
What is tailored HMI design and how does it differ from a standard HMI?
The HMI (human machine interface) is a critical component to efficiency with your machine. Screen layout, process control, access rights, all play a critical roll in how your HMI functions. All HMIs are designed to reflect actual machine components as well as incorporate certain security features (Operators and maintenance), maintenance screens, like PLC I/O, as well as show visuals of the machine for simple troubleshooting.
What is Deflashing?
Deflashing is a non abrasive from of blasting using plastic media. It does not etch or change the appearance of the surface of a part, it merely removes unwanted plastic “flashing” around the part after it has been moulded. Surface technologies specializes in wheel and air blast Deflash equipment primarily with thermoset media.
Still have questions? Contact us today!