subject: Steel Cleaning - Effective And Reliable Method Of Cleaning Steel Surfaces [print this page] Steel has been extensively used in construction of building, bridges and massive properties across the world. Over a period of time, due to constant exposure to harsh and rough weather conditions, wear and tear, the steel could have be corroded or contain a couple of paint coats. In order to restore the steel parts to their former shine and look, steel cleaning procedure in the form of blast cleaning is undertaken.
Blast cleaning is involves propelling particles at a high velocity towards a surface which has to be cleaned. In general, blasting process requires sand or similar substance which is capable of removing the layers of dirt and material. Once the steel surface is devoid of any impurity, a chemical treatment or paint could be applied to protect it
For steel cleaning, grit and sand are the most preferred and reliable substrates. They can be ideally used to clean heavily corroded steel, marine growth and even cement build up. The build up on the steel determines the time of grit and sand to be used in the steel cleaning process. If grime and oil have to be removed from the stone surface, coarser grit has to be used. A finer grit can be used to clean special finished surfaces such as aluminum and steel.
Some examples of blast cleaning procedures undertaken on steel surfaces in UK are -
The National Gallery
The Gates at the Hyde Park Corner
The Savoy Theatre
The Steel cleaning procedure at the Savoy theatre receives a special mention. Established in 1881, the Savoy theatre suffered a major fire in 1990 which destroyed its grandeur to a great extent. However it was refurbished and restored in 1993. The cleaning of the balustrade to the internal staircase was done through blast cleaning procedure and its former glory was restored.
By employing suitable steel cleaning procedure interior columns, balustrades and fire escapes can be cleaned off their earlier coats of paint before undertaking a repainting task or simply leaving the structure as it is.
There are many cleaning agencies who undertake steel cleaning tasks. You could conduct a thorough research on them and check them out in greater detail before you enlist any of them to do the requisite task for them. You could even ask for referrals and check out the cleaning procedures undertaken by them. A professional cleaning service provider will provide your property with masking services, blast cleaning treatment and even cleaning up the debris off the property on completion of the cleaning treatment. Also you could make sure they conform to the ISO standards and enjoy suitable insurance cover.