Wet Abrasive Blasting FAQ

Wet-Abrasive Blasting is also commonly referred to as Wet Blast, Wet Blasting, Vapor Blasting, Vapormatt Process, and Liquid Honing to name a few. We have consolidated some information in order to explain the Wet-Abrasive process. 

Do I have to use special abrasives?
GEOBLASTER® allows the use of any abrasive, and we still warranty our equipment. Just be sure the abrasive you choose sinks in water.

Is Wet-Abrasive Blasting Dust-Free?
No, if a builder tells you their system is “Dust-Free” or "100% Dustless", ask them for their Air Quality Control Report to prove their claim. The term "Dustless Blasting" is an oxymoron.

Is Wet-Abrasive Blasting Spark-Free?
No, if a builder tells you their system is “Spark-Free”, ask them to prove their claim. In our experience Wet-Abrasive Blasting is not spark-free.

Who invented Wet-Abrasive Technology?
Some of the first patents were held by Norman Ashworth of England and date back to the 1940's.

What is Wet-Abrasive Blasting?
Abrasive media is immersed in water and sent to a nozzle where regulated compressed air is added. The ability to adjust the aggressiveness as it discharges over a surface means wet abrasive blasting is a cost-effective and environmentally safe surface cleaning and preparation method.

What results can I expect?
GEOBLASTER® wet blast equipment will remove the toughest coatings, yet can be adjusted to clean the most fragile surfaces, without embedment or damage. Whether removing corrosion on a battleship or removing graffiti from sandstone, Wet-Abrasive cleaning is extremely versatile.

What about the environmental impact?
There are many wet abrasives that are non-toxic and environmentally friendly and after use, can be disposed of easily and properly.

How quickly does the GEOBLASTER® clean?
After a short set-up time, precise and evenly textured finishes on virtually all surfaces are easily achieved at production rates rivaling sandblasting.

How costly is the GEOBLASTER® to operate?
Because cleaning speeds are so quick, and wet-abrasive consumption is minimal (50-200lbs/hr), operating costs are typically a fraction of that of dry abrasive blasting. Little to no containment is required to protect adjacent buildings, equipment or the general public, saving considerable labor hours by minimizing set-up and clean-up procedures.

What is the difference compared to Dry Blasting?
The GEOBLASTER® wet blasting process eliminates more than 90% of the ambient dust, eliminates abrasive embedment in the substrate, and produces a more consistent finish. Wet Abrasive consumption is 1/6th to 1/10th of the volume of traditional dry blasting methods, which makes it not only the safest and greenest option, but the most economical wet sandblast option as well!

What about Flash Rust?
In many cases the process of wet abrasive blasting, and air-drying the substrate, flash rust can be inhibited. Certain applications will require the use of organically based and environmentally friendly rust inhibitors that can be mixed directly with the water.