Shot-blasting

Type of technology

Abrasive machining (by means of tools with undefined geometry)

Development phase

advanced

Level of innovation

Scale of production

batch, unit

Technology readiness level TRL

Description of the technology

Purpose of use

cleaning, protecting against corrosion, ensuring the appropriate condition of the surface layer (e.g. roughness) and the aesthetics of the part, preparing the surface of the part for the application of subsequent coatings

Use in industry

machine, automotive, aviation industries

General characteristics

Shot-blasting is the process of cleaning or altering the properties of the surface layer of metal parts by using a jet of highly abrasive substances. The abrasive jet is generated by compressed air or by the centripetal force of a turbine, sometimes called a blast wheel.

In order to carry out the process of shot-blasting, loose abrasive material is used: cast steel shot, alumina, crushed glass and garnet.

Alternative technologies
  • laser cleaning
  • sandblasting

Visualisation

Advantages and disadvantages

Advantages

  • fine cleaning of the surface of components of various dimensions (including very large ones)
  • improved aesthetics of machined parts
  • improvement of corrosion resistance

Disadvantages

  • negative effects of the abrasive medium on the environment and people
  • difficult process conditions for the operator
  • the need to dispose of the medium
  • moderate durability of the shot-blasting equipment (due to the dynamic effects of the abrasive particles)

Workpiece material types

  • steel
  • non-ferrous metals
  • non-ferrous metals alloys

Examples of products

  • railroad rails
  • track components
  • bridge structures for railroad infrastructure
  • reclaimed pipes
  • metal structures
  • metal components for reuse

Implementation of technology

Required resources

  • shot-blasting machine with abrasives

Required competences

  • training in finish machining
  • extensive practical experience in abrasive machining processes

Environmental aspects

Water consumption

Energy consumption

Waste generated

Expert evaluation

Competitiveness

Usability

Environmental impact

Development centers

  • none

Legal conditions

  • none

Companies using technology

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