SODA BLASTING OF METAL SHIELDS

Wipac Technology - Buckinghamshire, MK18

Client's Challenge

WIPAC required a specialist blast cleaning contractor to remove accumulated aluminium coating overspray from a set of metal shields used to form an aluminium coating enclosure.

Over time, repeated coating processes had resulted in heavy build-up of aluminium overspray on the shields, affecting their fit, function, and suitability for continued use. The shields needed to be stripped back to clean bare metal so they could be reused as part of the enclosure system.

The client required a non-destructive cleaning solution capable of removing the coating build-up without distorting, thinning, or damaging the metal components.

Assessment & Planning  

APT ICC met with the client on site to review the metal shields and assess the thickness and consistency of the aluminium overspray.

The assessment focused on substrate type, coating adhesion, and the risk of damage associated with aggressive abrasive methods. Based on this evaluation, soda blasting was selected as the most suitable technique, allowing effective removal of aluminium overspray while preserving the integrity and shape of the metal shields.

The proposed method and expected results were agreed with the client prior to works commencing.

    Methodology

    The blast cleaning works were delivered using a controlled soda blasting process:

    1. Preparation and containment of the work area.

    2. Controlled soda blasting using calibrated low-pressure settings.

    3. Gradual removal of aluminium coating overspray from metal shield surfaces.

    4. Continuous monitoring to prevent deformation or surface damage.

    5. Final inspection to confirm full removal of overspray and clean metal finish.

    This approach ensured the shields were restored to a reusable condition while maintaining
    dimensional accuracy.

    Site Access & Logistics

    Equipment
    • Soda blasting equipment with adjustable pressure control

    Media Used
    • Soda blasting media (non-abrasive, non-destructive)

    Chemicals
    • None

    The process relied entirely on controlled blasting media, with no
    chemical treatments required.

    The Results
    • Aluminium coating overspray fully removed from metal shields
    • Shields restored to clean bare metal condition
    • No distortion or damage to components
    • Shields suitable for reuse within aluminium coating enclosure
    • Consistent, uniform surface finish achieved