subject: Brick Machine Cleaning [print this page] Mobile blast cleaning is a comparatively new method to be used when talking about cleaning block machine built masonry, as it has been used for a long time in masonry restoration and general brick cleaning. It is often preferred by architects and engineers over traditional acid based cleaning, as it does not risk the possible reactions that may come with acid use on certain brick types.
It is important to choose the tradesman who performs sand blasting work on your property carefully, as with all types of trade, some take their work seriously and some are simply out for the most profit and will cut corners. It is therefore important that when looking for blast cleaning in London, you research thoroughly and choose the very best workmen for the job. If you do manage to find competent and skilled workers, then you will find that the sand blasting method can be one of the most thorough and clean methods of smoothing and cleaning grimy surfaces.
A sandblasting kit will typically comprise of: a portable air compressor, a blasting tank, a blasting nozzle, protective clothing and protective eye and mouth guards. The air pressure produced by the sand blasting machinery can range from 400 lbs per square inch to around 100 lbs per square inch. The blasting tank holds the sand particles, and will form an abrasive material mixture that is then propelled due to air pressure into the blasting hose and nozzle.
How the mixture is then blasted depends on the size and shape of the nozzle, as well as the air pressure applied. Again, the speed with which the cleaning takes place also depends on the type of sand used, the size and type of nozzle used, and the air pressure and the distance between the nozzle and the wall. In addition, the surface which is due to be cleaned will have an important effect on the speed with which the cleaning can take place.
The sand type used is often an actual sand material, but can also be finely ground quartz or granite, depending on the type of job that is taking place. Type "A" is used when there are only very light grime or brickwork imperfections that need removing. Type "B" is used when there is heavy staining, or masonry is very rough and needs a large amount of smoothing.
Sand blast cleaning can also be used for hard burned, non glazed, smooth or textured brickwork; this can include red, white, buff, gray or chocolate brick types, among others. It is important to identify the brickwork correctly, as handmade or reclaimed styles of brick can be disfigured or damaged permanently by sand blasting.
