Lesley summarises the process, applications, and benefits of shotblasting, emphasising its utility in maintaining and restoring surface properties.

SHOTBLASTING is a versatile, efficient, and cost-effective method for preparing a wide variety of flooring surfaces. It’s widely used to clean, texture, and provide a profile on surfaces to ensure adhesion and prolonged performance of applied materials.

The success of shotblasting relies on multiple factors, including the integrity of the surface, proper curing and dryness, plus the operator’s skill in adjusting machine speed and selecting the appropriate grade of shot for the task.

This document summarises the process, applications, and benefits of shotblasting, emphasising its utility in maintaining and restoring surface properties.

The shotblasting process
Shotblasting involves releasing steel shot into a high-speed rotating wheel inside the body of the machine. The blast wheel propels the shot at high velocity onto the target surface, creating the desired profile.

The suction from the hydrovane pulsation unit in the filtration unit collects the dust and debris. The shot is recycled via the hopper for reuse, until it wears away. The process is efficient and environmentally friendly, producing minimal waste.

The surface being prepared must be dry, hard, and reasonably level for optimal results.
Shotblasting machines can only be operated with a filtration unit or vacuum attached to ensure an environmentally friendly and safe operation.

Applications of shotblasting
Shotblasting is suitable for various floor and surface preparation:

• Concrete preparation: removing laitance, and profiling the substrate.
• Coatings: keying existing resins, self levellers, and coatings for upgrades, removal of waterproofing systems, contaminants, and thin levelling materials.
• Steel preparation: preparing steel surfaces to standards such as SA2.5.
• Asphalt retexturing: enhancing the profile of asphalt to create anti slip properties.
• Stone and tile cleaning: texturing and cleaning to prepare for other materials.
• Road and runway maintenance: restoring micro texture and macrotexture to improve
  skid resistance and extend surface life.
  
  Machine specifications and features
  Advanced shotblasting machines, such as the PPC400 & PPC558 Shotblaster made in Britain, are designed for large areas such as warehouses, factories and distribution centres to roads and multistorey carparks.
  
  These machines offer adjustable working speeds, and high production rates of up to 1,200sq m/8-hour day in certain conditions. Made from high-grade manganese steel, they’re durable, efficient, and easy to maintain. The hydrovane filtration technology ensures maximum suction, effective dust containment, and minimal downtime for maintenance.
  
  Conclusion
  Shotblasting is a clean, efficient, sustainable and environmentally friendly surface preparation method suitable for various applications. With the right equipment and expertise, it offers unparalleled benefits in improving surface properties, enhancing safety, and ensuring optimal performance of applied materials.
  
  Many material manufacturers include this form of mechanical floor abrasion as part of their warranty process. Its proven effectiveness in restoring many surfaces, including steel decks and many other surfaces highlights its critical role in substrate profiling and maintenance. 
  www.ppcgroup.co.uk
  
  Lesley Collins is business development, sales & marketing manager, The Preparation Group