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Dry Ice Blast Cleaning: A Refresher

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Whether you're an expert or a beginner, there's no harm in refreshing your knowledge every once in a while. That's especially true of dry ice blasting. Keep reading for a short refresher on all things dry ice.


What is dry ice?

Dry ice is not actually ice, despite what its name suggests. Really. It's carbon dioxide in its solid form, set at a temperature of -79 degrees Celsius. Consequently, it feels extremely cold to the touch and requires gloves for handling as it can cause the skin to burn.


What is carbon dioxide?


Carbon dioxide is a natural trace gas that comprises 0.05% of the Earth's atmosphere. It is a colorless, odorless gas produced by burning carbon and organic compounds and by respiration. It is absorbed by plants via photosynthesis.


Is carbon dioxide dangerous?


Carbon dioxide can be dangerous at high concentrations but is naturally present at a concentration of approximately 0.037% and not a danger to health at this low level. It is 40% heavier than the air we breathe and may change atmospheric conditions if a dry ice blasting area is poorly ventilated. Carbon dioxide at high concentrations can be toxic: 3-5% may cause rapid breathing and headaches, 7-12% can increase these symptoms and potentially lead to unconsciousness. Higher levels may cause suffocation. Use of a commercial cleaning companyis vital as their trained professionals will have the expertise to use this powerful cleaning method safely.


What is dry ice blasting?


Ice blasting is an industrial cleaning solution and polishing method using dry ice.


Who performs dry ice blasting?


As a highly specialized process, dry ice blasting should only be done by a professional commercial cleaning company.


When was dry ice blasting invented?


The process was first patented in 1955.


How does dry ice blasting work?


Dry ice blasting uses air compressed between 80 and 90 PSI to blast pellets of dry ice at a high velocity to clean a variety of surfaces. The dry ice is pushed through a pressurized air stream through a blast hose, removing surface debris and contamination. The process is environmentally sustainable with no secondary waste.


What is dry ice blasting used to clean?


A vast array of industrial enterprises that create tangible goods use ice blasting, including sectors such as food and beverage, foundries, chemical production, aerospace components, welding equipment, printing presses, and power generation. It is essentially used for all sectors that require cleaning services, but cannot use water blasting or sandblasting methods.

July 12, 2019
Most manufacturers require foolproof machine-cleaning methods in order to roll out clean, nontoxic products and stay in compliance with federal regulations related to consumer safety. This is especially relevant to manufacturers of food products or any appliances related to producing or preparing food. Since water blasting and sand blasting, both traditional methods of industrial cleaning, can leave behind debris or damage, enter dry ice cleaning services. The method of dry ice cleaning can be sterile and is very clean and clear of clutter, making it an efficient tool for heat exchanger cleaning services. Learn more about dry ice blasting and why it is superior to all other commercial cleaning methods. More Efficient Cleaning Dry ice isn't actually ice; it's solid carbon dioxide. this solid is formed and cooled down to 79 degrees C, and it's preserved at that level for specialized industrial purposes. those purposes typically include cleaning or shipping products. Where cleaning is concerned, dry ice blasting equipment polishes and cleans industrial machinery and products at supersonic speeds. What can be cleaned within hours with a sand blaster can be transformed to a like-new state with a dry ice cleaning machine in minutes. Of course, since efficiency and timeliness are paramount in virtually every industry, working with a team of dry ice blasting contractors can be a major asset to a manufacturer. Environmentally Sound It is in a manufacturer's best interest to create products and use processes that are eco-friendly. Industrial manufacturers are traditionally known to be creators of pollution in massive proportions. Part of the pollution problem has to do with cleaning procedures and the disposal of waste. With dry ice cleaning, the process is drastically more refined and much less prone to scattering debris. Dry ice does not need to be put to waste, and the cleaning machines used do not need as much cleaning themselves as other more traditional industrial cleaning equipment does. Not only is the process of dry ice blasting kinder to the environment, but everything, from the dry ice itself to the intricate machinery, can be recycled and repurposed. This gives the equipment a much longer lifespan. Some Industries Can Only Rely On Dry Ice Blasting Some manufacturing companies can only rely on specialized, truly clean maintenance services. Food equipment, for instance, cannot be cleaned with a sand blaster. HVAC and space heater manufacturers, in turn, must rely on heat exchanger cleaning services that don't use water. Dry ice is the perfect cleaning solution for almost any industry. Additionally, it is the only option for more specialized industries that deal with food, flammable particles, or equipment and substances that might otherwise be damaged by water. Final Thoughts Does your company need heat exchanger cleaning services or other industrial cleaning services that require the use of dry ice? If so, contact us to learn how our process and our unique capabilities can fit your needs.
July 10, 2019
For those somewhat unfamiliar with dry ice blasting, the first step is to understand what it does not involve. There is no “ice” involved in the dry ice blasting process. Dry ice is not ice as we know it. It’s solid carbon dioxide at -79 degrees Celsius. While the name may bring to mind images of ice being hurled at a surface, that is not the case at all. It is more like a cloud of cold steam. But one of the best features of dry ice blasting is the fact that it involves environmentally sustainable cleaning. This makes it so regardless of the industry you are in, you can use this method of cleaning knowing that you are still doing your part to conserve the environment we depend on. There are more benefits as well, however. Here are a few of them.
July 3, 2019
Dry ice cleaning services are useful for manufacturing, power generation, and restoration. What will you use it for?
June 26, 2019
Whether you need heat exchanger cleaning services or have presses that need a serious cleaning, CO2 blasting might be a good way to go.
By nat rosasco June 18, 2019
Dry ice blasting, also known as dry ice cleaning, is the process of spraying dry ice pellets through a hose at high pressures to clean surfaces.
By nat rosasco June 13, 2019
If you're looking for dry ice cleaning services that you can trust, Interstate Carbonic Enterprises is that place for you. To learn more about our CO2 cleaning equipment, dry ice blasting equipment, other cleaning solutions, contact Interstate Carbonic Enterprises today.
By nat rosasco June 10, 2019
If you are looking for a commercial cleaning company, it would be good to consider a company that uses modern CO2 cleaning and CO2 cleaning equipment; you will get several benefits that you cannot get from a standard cleaning solution. Here are some of the top benefits of dry ice blasting cleaning.
By nat rosasco May 31, 2019
Overall, dry ice blasting has been an effective and efficient method of cleaning materials for over the last 70 years. It is handy by not needing to fully deconstruct machines, while also not raising any concerns over flame or electrical hazards. Compared to liquid solvent cleaning methods, dry ice cleaning should be heavily considered for your next machine needing cleaning, no matter the industry you work in.
A poster that says 1 in 6 americans contract a foodborne illness every year
By nat rosasco May 24, 2019
These are only just a few of the benefits of utilizing a dry ice cleaning service. If you're interested in learning more, contact us today.
Dry ice is 79 degrees celsius so it will sublimate if it 's not stored in a container that is well insulated
By nat rosasco March 6, 2019
A dry ice cleaning service is a fantastic, efficient way to clean surfaces and areas that may have mold, mildew, smoke, and other impurities. With careful attention and proper use, dry ice can be a valuable asset to a clean and sanitary work environment.
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