Mechanical Tool Preparation
Our mechanical tool surface preparation services include a range of methods which use tools to remove irregularities, old coatings, loose materials, and rust from surfaces both to rejuvenate them and to prepare them for the adhesion of new coatings.
Abrasive blasting involves propelling abrasive material against the surface to remove contaminants such as rust and old coatings and is most suitable for concrete surfaces, metal surfaces, and bricks and masonry.
Uses of Abrasive Blasting:
- Cleaning of industrial equipment and machinery,
- Graffiti and rust removal, and
- Fire damage restoration.
Our team uses this powerful surface preparation technique with high pressure streams of water to remove contaminants from various surfaces. It can be used in similar applications to abrasive blasting, but due to the lack of dust production, is more eco-friendly and thus more suited to environmentally sensitive projects.
Uses of High and Ultra-High Pressure Water Jetting:
- Restoration of floors and pavements,
- Removal of contaminants from soil and groundwater, and
- Rust removal.
Our specialist team use floor grinders to spin abrasive wheels onto a surface to slowly remove contaminants and create a flat surface prior to coating application. Grinders can also be used to create a rough texture on the surface in order to improve adhesion of the new coating.
Uses of Mechanical Grinding:
- Removal of surface coatings like resin without damaging the substrate below,
- Roughening of surfaces to increase adhesion of coatings, and
- Surface polishing.
Sanding is often used in conjunction with other surface preparation techniques in order to smooth a surface or remove imperfections such as rough spots or old paint. It is most commonly used when preparing wood by removing dirt, old paint, or rough edges.
Uses of Sanding in Surface Preparation:
- Preparation of new, bare or damaged wood,
- Removal of old, flaking or chipped paint or finishes, and
- Preparation of existing coatings to improve adhesion of new coatings.
Metal bristles, usually made of steel, are attached to a handle or mounted on a drill or grinder before being applied to the surface. The bristles can vary in thickness, length and stiffness, depending on the application: generally, this method is used where abrasive blasting would be too harsh.
Uses of Wire Brushing:
- Removing rust or weld spatter from metal surfaces,
- Cleaning and preparing surfaces for repair or maintenance, and
- Smoothing and cleaning wooden surfaces to prepare for finishing.
Scraping is a traditional surface preparation technique which involves the use of a scraping tool to remove excess material or contaminants from a surface and is most commonly used in metalworking and woodworking to achieve flatness and straightness, ensuring proper fit and function of mating components.
Uses of Scraping in Surface Preparation:
- Restoration and repair of old or damaged machinery or equipment,
- Preparing surfaces for assembly or welding, and
- Removing surface imperfections such as rough spots or burrs.
The choice of method depends on factors such as surface type, contaminants, and the specific requirements of subsequent treatments. Effective surface preparation is critical for ensuring the durability, adhesion, and longevity of coatings or finishes applied to a substrate.
We can help you understand the best method (or methods) to use for your project.
We work with ICORR and SSPC certified inspectors to guarantee compliance. View our full list of accreditations including ConstructionLine Gold and Acclaim Health & Safety on our about page.
For more information about our mechanical tool preparation services
