Are you wondering if there’s a method for adding depth and dimension to a concrete surface without damaging the substrate? The objective of exposing aggregate sandblasted finish is to add visual attractiveness while also providing a non-slip surface that meets Australian Standards, whether treating a municipal pavement or a new building slab. So, in order to expose the concrete aggregate, your best approach should be concrete blasting Melbourne since it allows for precise control over the blasting pressure and the type of abrasive that must be used. Because of this, you can get a surface finish that ranges from 1 mm to 5 mm, depending on how much aggregate is exposed.
What You Need To Do
It is common for our clients to request sandblasting of concrete surfaces in one of three different grades—light, medium or heavy finish, according to their desired amount of aggregate exposure.
The first thing to do, you’ll need to identify and address any potential risks in the work area. As part of this process, the designated sandblasting area must be cleared of any non-essential people, vehicles, or even contractors who may be present at the time of the blast. Other additional preparations include masking or taping nearby surfaces to protect them from being sandblasted. All of this is done to protect the surfaces and people around the concrete sandblasting operation from potential injury or unnecessary damage.
There are a number of things to keep in mind and ensure to carry out in strict order for a safe and effective concrete blasting Melbourne, as below:
- Sandblasting in an enclosed factory or warehouse is typically recommended. It is very important to make sure there's enough airflow for this activity.
- Stencils, if used to create a certain pattern, should be affixed to the surface prior to blasting.
- All bull hoses from the compressor should be connected to the blast pot, and all fittings should be provided with safety whips and clips.
- Garnet or an acceptable replacement should be added to the sandblasting pot hopper only after shutting off all of its air valves.
- Once the compressor is loaded and the air valves are open to the sandblasting pot, you can then start concrete blasting Melbourne. The pressurised flow of garnet via the blast hose can now be activated by pressing the ‘Deadman Switch’.
- Using the same procedure, you can repeat this process on the remaining areas of the surface that need abrasive treatment and aggregate exposure.
- Remove any debris and abrasives from the work area and dispose of them in an environmentally friendly manner.
- Make sure you're wearing an air helmet (e.g. Nova 3000), a hooded blast suit, gloves, earplugs, and steel-capped work boots to keep you safe.
- Check the diesel compressor to make sure it's working and maintained properly. Compressors should be positioned away from the blasting area and upwind of the area.
- Don’t forget to connect the Nova 3000 Blast Helmet breathing air filter and carbon monoxide sensor in order to ensure a clean air supply for the operator.
- Allow sufficient lengths of Deadman lines and sandblasting hoses from the pot to reach the area that needs abrasive treatment.
- metre and use a relatively modest pressure of 70 psi to 80 psi to begin. To achieve the desired finish, gradually increase the blast pressure to 100 psi onto the test patch, exposing more of the concrete aggregate.
- Keep your sweeping or brushing motions smooth and consistent when sandblasting.
What You Get From Concrete Blasting Melbourne
A concrete surface can benefit greatly from the use of sandblasting, which can add texture to the surface. Among the many benefits of using this method are the following:
- In terms of cost, concrete sandblasting is an excellent option.
- Concrete sandblasting has an unrivalled coarseness that is impossible to achieve with any other method.
- Concrete sandblasting is extremely efficient, allowing one operator to treat up to 100 square metres per day.
- Client satisfaction can be ensured with ease because concrete blasting Melbourne is so easy to monitor.