Technical Information: Laser Cleaning vs. Sandblasting

ADVANTAGES OF LASER CLEANING OVER SANDBLASTING

Many solutions currently available on the market do not meet customer expectations.
The most popular cleaning method - sandblasting is in many cases impractical due to the laboriousness, invasiveness and problems associated with industrial processes. In addition, current EU regulations seriously limit the use of this technology.
An alternative to sandblasting is laser cleaning. Replacing sandblasting with laser cleaning is inevitable, because the benefits of using lasers are enormous.
Coatings are removed by evaporation without affecting the treated surface, thus preventing damage. Using ablative laser cleaning, we not only remove old coatings from the surface, but also refine, polish and change the adhesion of the surface. Laser-cleaned materials are prepared for the application of new coatings.
Below we present the advantages of our technology compared to more traditional methods and show why laser cleaning is better than sandblasting and other methods used.

 

SAFETY

The problem becomes apparent in the case of delicate materials that require regular cleaning to remove dirt and residues. Nobody wants to subject them to a process that could deform the surface or even cause holes. In such cases, laser cleaning becomes particularly attractive. This option allows you to reliably remove traces of old coatings and paints without risking damage to even the most delicate surfaces. An additional advantage is the "cleanliness" of the process and the lack of the need to protect the workplace from unwanted sand particles. This allows us to achieve all the benefits of sandblasting without the risk of damage while maintaining a clean workplace.

NO HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

The guarantee of safe laser cleaning is possible because no additional abrasives are applied to the cleaned surface. During sandblasting, the high-pressure nozzle of the device throws fine grains onto the surface, which remove the coating or paint. These grains are also responsible for the damage mentioned above. But what about lasers? Laser cleaning does not involve any abrasives. Depending on the selected parameters, we cover the material with a series of light pulses with the power and energy appropriately matched to the material. Ultimately, we achieve a safer, more controlled and highly repeatable process.

 

ENVIRONMENT

Environmental awareness is a natural human tendency. During cleaning, waste is created in gaseous form, which can be easily sucked out and separated. Removing contaminants from the surface of materials using a laser does not harm the environment. In addition, there are no costs for the disposal of leftovers, old elements or chemical waste. These are intangible benefits for all parties involved.
The devices we use use a process called laser ablation. The laser is so bright and focused that everything that absorbs light is heated and the coating evaporates. No additional materials are needed apart from the device itself. These are huge benefits for the environment that should be taken into account. No chemicals or additional agents are required for proper functioning. This means that there is no secondary waste that needs to be disposed of. Once the laser has done its job, the device can simply be put away until next use.

PRECISION, UNIVERSALITY AND REPEATABILITY OF THE PROCESS

Sandblasting can be a precise technology, we won't deny that. However, this traditional method loses the potential offered by the laser. Operators can focus on very specific areas, selectively removing different coatings layer by layer to ensure that we clean only the parts we want to clean. The control of our devices takes place in real time, so they can be easily adjusted if necessary. Automation of the process also does not pose any difficulties. Thanks to laser cleaning, we even have control over the depth of ablation. We can precisely remove problematic coatings in many different ways in precisely defined areas that require it, without affecting other areas that do not need it, which allows for a refreshing effect, instead of a new one.

Such an effect is particularly appreciated by conservators of monuments!

LOW MAINTENANCE COSTS, HIGH EFFICIENCY

With high prices of electricity, water or compressed air, low operating costs are key for every investor. Our lasers do not require external and additional materials to function properly, which results in very low maintenance and operating costs.

Take advantage of our services and enjoy modern, effective and economical technology that provides lasting results without additional costs and hassle!