Dry Ice Cleaning In Confined Spaces
Dry ice cleaning has many advantages over other forms of abrasive and non-abrasive blasting. None more so when entering into the world of confined space working.
Over the past 6 months Optimum have seen a notable increase in demand for dry ice blasting in confined spaces and a lot of the time we have been a direct replacement for traditional sand blasting, grit blasting or bead blasting operations. This work is usually inside tanks and large vessels and the contaminant has ranged from bitumen to syrup, with some flour mixed in for good measure!
No Secondary Waste
With no secondary waste stream created by dry ice blasting, we keep the mess inside the tank down to a minimum. We are also a non-abrasive process which means that dry ice cleaning can’t damage or peen the substrate we are working on.
Another great advantage, especially in the food and drink sector, is that the sheer cold of dry ice blasting acts as a steriliser. No chemicals or extra cleaning is needed. Another advantage is its ability to effectively clean intricate and hard-to-reach areas. In confined spaces, accessibility is often limited, and traditional cleaning methods may fall short. Dry ice blasting can penetrate nooks, crannies, and crevices, ensuring a thorough clean. This is crucial for maintaining the functionality and safety of equipment and machinery.
Moreover, dry ice blasting is safe and non-toxic. It reduces the risk of chemical exposure and contamination, which is vital in confined spaces where ventilation might be limited. This method also minimizes fire hazards since dry ice is non-flammable and does not conduct electricity, making it suitable for cleaning electrical components and reducing the risk of explosions.
Anyone who works in confined spaces will tell you of the dangers involved, but with the correct training and safety procedures in place, Optimum Dry Ice Blasting have the best solution for any confined space work.