What is Vapour Blasting

What is Vapour Blasting ?

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Vapour Blasting (wet blasting) is a non-aggressive method of reconditioning non-ferrous metals. It eliminates the dirt, contamination and corrosion products but not the surface material so parts retain their original dimensions with a stunning finish, far superior to sand blasting.

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Vapour Blasting works by expelling a slurry of fine glass beads which are accelerated and atomised by pressurised gas and a stream of water. The water component prevents abrasive particles in the slurry of very fine glass bead, being embedded. Also the water is used to propel the abrasive media to the surface of the component, but at the moment of impact the water acts as a flushing agent to remove surface debris. This thin film of water reduces the degree of surface deformation allowing a delicate cleaning action.

 

This makes it perfect for use on almost any car parts from classic cars such as Alfa Romeo all the way through to more a modern Mercedes or motorcycle parts ranging from Triumph all the way to BMW

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Vapour Blasting is also commonly referred to as Hydro Blasting, Aqua Blasting and Wet Blasting.

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I've never heard of Vapour Blasting, is this process new?

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Cabinet Vapour Blasting is not a new process. The process was developed in the United Kingdom back in the 1940's.  It was originally used in the aircraft industry to treat items such as compressor impellers, turbine blades and fuel pump springs. After processing parts, imperfections and cracks were highlighted, and fatigue life and surface finish was considerably improved. Recently it has become a leader in the Motorcycle and Car Restoration industry.

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Why is Vapour Blasting better than the more common types of Media Blasting?

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Conventional blasting methods embed abrasives into the metal and can create porosity on the surface. This condition attracts and holds dirt and grease, making it nearly impossible to clean once soiled. Aggressive, Dry Blasting may damage or erode the base metal.

 

Being a liquid process, the vapour blast flows into areas inaccessible by other methods. Threaded holes remain free of thread damaging abrasive particles, masking or plugging holes is not required. No heat is generated that may distort or damage parts. Vapour blasting is non abrasive and does not alter the dimensions of parts.

 

The diagram below shows the differences between grit, bead and vapour blasting