Vapor blasting, also known as wet blasting or liquid honing, is a surface finishing process that involves the use of a mixture of water, abrasive media, and pressurized air to clean, degrease, and finish surfaces. The process is often used to achieve a smooth and uniform surface texture on various materials, including metals, plastics, and composites.
In vapor blasting, the abrasive media is suspended in water, creating a slurry that is propelled onto the workpiece’s surface by pressurized air. The water not only helps to carry and propel the abrasive but also serves to cushion the impact, resulting in a gentler and more controlled abrasion compared to dry blasting methods. The combination of abrasion and water also helps to reduce dust and heat generation during the process.
The process is versatile and can be adjusted to achieve different finishes, from light cleaning to more aggressive material removal. Vapor blasting is commonly used in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and marine for applications like cleaning engine components, preparing surfaces for coating or painting, and restoring or refurbishing parts.
One of the advantages of vapor blasting is its ability to achieve a uniform and aesthetically pleasing matte finish without causing damage to delicate surfaces. Additionally, the water-based nature of the process can be advantageous for certain applications where avoiding dust or heat buildup is important.