Dry Ice Blasting Seattle? Trust The Answer

Car restoration is big business, with thousands of companies across the country — and around the world — working meticulously to bring old cars back to life. This process often involves replacing genuine parts, but purists and collectors know that genuine parts always offer the best overall value.

However, there is an alternative. As Oscar Goldman said in the intro to The Six Million Dollar Man, “We can rebuild him. We have the technology.” We can disassemble a vehicle, restore and refurbish its original parts and make it look almost exactly as it did when it first rolled off the assembly line. A new trend in the world of preservation is dry ice cleaning.

David Pickard The Drive and its affiliates may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links. Continue reading .,

dry ice? Like the stuff in haunted houses or for flash freezing whole tuna? Yes, we are talking about this dry ice. It is similar to media blasting but perhaps less abrasive, similar to steam blasting.

You may have questions about this new restoration technique. Drive’s Guides & Gear team is here with the answers.

This before and after comparison shows how well dry ice cleaning can work., David Pickard

How does dry ice cleaning work?

Dry ice is the solid form of carbon dioxide. If you blast the super-cold material — it’s almost minus 110 degrees Fahrenheit — through a pressure hose, it can actually clean surfaces. It is comparable to a blasting agent without abrasive materials such as glass beads or silicon dioxide.

This feeds pressurized dry ice through a hose. Despite the length of the hose, the individual hose arrangement enables a constant pressure. ACT Dry Ice Services in the Philadelphia area gave us a close look at how it works.

The reason dry ice particles work so well as a restoration cleaning agent is because the carbon dioxide particles sublimate — meaning they go from a solid to a gas without first becoming a liquid — when they hit the surface. It’s not the impact of the particles that removes dirt, rust and other debris. The magic happens when the carbon dioxide particles turn back into gas. Unlike the chiseling effect of a process like sandblasting, dry ice blasting removes dirt, oil and decades of grime without removing the car’s steel, aluminum or other metals.

want more magic Part of the appeal of dry ice cleaning is that no color is removed, as material is left with a strong bond to the surface while the unwanted bits are removed.

The left picture shows the car before cleaning, the right picture shows the car after cleaning., David Pickard

How long does it take and how expensive is it?

ACT’s David Pickard walked me through the basics. David originally worked for Alpheus, a company that makes dry ice blasters, and has been in the business for 25 years. He has also worked on Yenko Chevrolet Camaros and Ford Mustang Shelby GT500KR convertibles.

Most of his automotive duties involve heavy degreasing, priming, or a combination of both. The average job takes between five and seven hours depending on the size of the mess. He noted that access is key, so a rotisserie autorotator is ideal, but a lift can help you get to the right areas of the vehicle. He once blew up a car on the ground, but he said it wasn’t a fun experience.

This wheel was encrusted before dry ice treatment, but much cleaner afterwards., David Pickard

For ACT’s cleaning services, it costs about $250 an hour at the company’s facility and $350 an hour when travel is involved. That means expect a general range of $1,250 to $2,450 for an entire vehicle. Other stores may charge more or less.

Considering the benefit of dry ice blasting over blasting with abrasive media and some before and after photos, dry ice blasting looks legit.

The original patent for dry ice cleaning is pretty straightforward., US Patent Office

Where did dry ice cleaning come from?

Dry ice cleaning originated in the airline industry, and there is evidence that the United States Navy experimented with it as a degreasing agent as early as 1954. It wasn’t until 1974, however, when Lockheed Martin filed a patent for “pellet sandblasting “sublimable material” that we find the actual application of dry ice cleaning.

In the mid to late 1980s, other commercial industries turned to dry ice as a cleaning method. More patents were filed for a portable cleaning system, and things went uphill from there. The automotive industry is the latest to hit the application.

Alpheus was able to exploit Lockheed’s patent for commercial use. Today, companies like Cold Jet, which acquired Alpheus, sell commercial-grade equipment that can be used in automotive restoration. Many companies now offer the service for your classic car restoration.

Dry Ice Terms You Should Know

Whether you consider yourself a prospective do-it-yourself dry ice cleaning contractor or are just in the market for service, it’s important to know the terminology. You gotta speak that dry ice lingo! Here are some of the most common terms you might come across.

Abrasive vs. non-abrasive

According to Merriam-Webster, abrasive cleaning is the polishing or cleaning of a hard surface by rubbing or grinding. Sounds like me on the dance floor in high school. (Editor’s note: hit two, William. You’ve been warned.) The key to understanding here is whether or not the particles are abrasive. Abrasive media blasting removes all material, including and may even remove structural material. Non-abrasive methods such as dry ice cleaning or steam blasting will not.

rays

This has nothing to do with explosives. This only refers to pushing material (in this case carbon dioxide pellets) through a pressure hose.

dry ice

The solid form of carbon dioxide, dry ice, is regularly produced as one of the by-products of ethanol production. If gas escapes, it is collected and turned back into a solid, only to be blown back into a gas during the purification process. Isn’t science wonderful?

pellets

These are the corn-sized materials used in the dry ice cleaning process. They are not commercially available but are sourced more for industrial use. Pickard said he had some sources within 45 minutes of his Pennsylvania location.

sublimation

This is the endothermic process in which a solid turns into a gas without first becoming a liquid. It requires certain temperatures and pressures for sublimation to take place.

Video

Want to see dry ice cleaning in action? Check out this clip from our friends at AMMO NYC as they attack a dirty Porsche 964 engine with dry ice cleaning.

FAQs on dry ice cleaning

Any questions. The drive has answers.

Q: Can I buy my own dry ice cleaning machine?

A: You certainly can. There’s a lot on eBay. However, you’d probably need to have plenty of surface area to blast to make it worthwhile as the systems don’t come cheap. They run from $5,000 for the old ones to over $20,000 for the new ones. Machines are measured in total hours of operation.

Q: What personal protective equipment do I need for dry ice blasting?

A: As with any type of media radiation, protect your eyes, ears, and skin. Add a respirator and you’re good to go.

Q: Is dry ice safe for the environment?

A: Yes. The pellets basically turn into a non-toxic gas when they hit the surface. However, there are some cleanups.

Q: Are there any downsides to dry ice cleaning?

A: It’s chaotic, but it’s no more chaotic than any other media explosion. Unlike sandblasting, no abrasives need to be removed. The dry ice turns back into gas, so all you have to do is clean away any dust, dirt, and rust that will come off. Also, it’s pretty noisy. The system runs at around 150 decibels. Pickard said viewers are quickly discouraged from hanging around to watch him work.

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When cleaning products, you definitely don’t want the safety of your operator or other employees to be compromised. However, most cleaning methods – including dry ice blasting – come with risks. Laser cleaning offers a safer and faster alternative. What are the differences and how does laser cleaning work?

WHAT IS DRY ICE BLASTING?

Similar to other media cleaning methods, dry ice uses a stream of compressed air directed at a surface. Dry ice blasting uses recovered carbon dioxide to freeze and blast away contaminants. It is most effective for soft, thick layers of contaminants such as airplane gaskets. Other advantages are that dry ice blasting does not require secondary waste cleaning and is considered environmentally friendly.

DISADVANTAGES OF DRY ICE BLASTING

While there are several advantages to using dry ice blasting, there are also some disadvantages. One of the biggest disadvantages is that dry ice is incredibly expensive – not just to buy, but also to store. Similar to sandblasting, dry ice blasting equipment often self-damages, meaning you have to constantly replace the application when it fails. The recurring costs are high and it can also be difficult to find a reputable dealer. For storage, dry ice requires temperatures below -78.5 degrees Celsius, which means it is difficult to store for long periods of time. It usually requires special storage devices that can cost anywhere from $13,000 to $30,000. Additionally, transporting the dry ice to and from its storage area is cumbersome.

Dry ice blasting can be extremely dangerous as it can lead to a build up of carbon dioxide in confined spaces. Because of this risk, dry ice requires a well-ventilated room, otherwise the operator and all employees in the room can suffocate. When dry ice blasting, your operator and everyone in the room must wear multiple layers of protection — including gloves, jackets, and earmuffs — to keep them warm and safe, as dry ice blasting can be extremely cold and noisy.

WHAT IS LASER CLEANING?

Laser technology uses thousands of focused laser pulses per second to cut through layers of contamination – making it an ideal method for blasting it away. But not all layers are made of the same components. Different types of lasers can be used for different cleanings, and products can range from 20 to 1,000 watts. Laser cleaning provides powerful cleaning without damaging or degrading the product. It is usually used for:

HOW IT WORKS

By sending nanosecond pulses of laser light onto a surface, laser technology quickly and efficiently removes contaminants from surface areas. When it interacts with contaminants that absorb laser light, the contaminants or coating particles either turn into a gas or the pressure of the interaction causes particles to detach from the surface.

By using the right laser settings and solutions, laser cleaning penetrates to the foundation of your product, providing effective cleaning on both soft and hard surfaces. Ideal for cleaning metals, laser technology also removes:

rust

Fat

Mold

oil

Other pollutants

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF LASER CLEANING?

Laser cleaning offers a variety of solutions for different requirements. From handheld portable solutions to larger 1,000 watt automated products, laser cleaning offers durable cleaning at a reasonable and low price. No special environment is required for equipment storage, and laser cleaning is approximately 15 times faster than manual abrasive cleaning and 8 times faster than dry ice blasting. This means you can clean your products in less than half the time.

Compared to dry ice blasting, laser cleaning is safer for operators and employees. It uses no harmful gases and can be used in even the smallest or unventilated places – as long as everyone in the immediate area wears safety goggles. And because it doesn’t damage, it provides a thorough clean without interfering with your operation or tiring – extending the life of your product or tools. Other additional benefits include:

Easy to use

Calm

Reliable

Environmentally friendly

Does not require cleaning

Low running costs

Low maintenance

ADAPT LASER HAS A SOLUTION FOR YOUR NEEDS

Adapt Laser specializes in the know-how and application of laser cleaning solutions. We offer products ranging in power from 20 to 1,000 watts and offer training to help your staff get the most out of their laser cleaning solutions. We have provided laser cleaning solutions to a wide variety of industries and businesses – including military and defense for the US Air Force and Navy – and our state-of-the-art laser cleaning solutions are trusted by hundreds of organizations.

Contact us today or call (816) 466-5855 to find the right laser cleaning solution for you.

Q1 How does dry ice blasting work?

A. Unlike other types of abrasives that have a “chiseling” effect, dry ice blasting actually penetrates the contamination by harnessing the kinetic energy of the high-speed dry ice particles, creating an explosion when it hits the substrate, and which lifts unwanted material from the surface. This non-abrasive process is commonly referred to as “impact rinsing”.

Q2. How do I store dry ice?

A. Air is dry ice’s worst enemy. Dry ice should be stored in a well-insulated container, available from your ice supplier. Because dry ice is extremely cold (109° below zero), storing the product in a regular freezer may minimally slow down sublimation but not significantly increase its shelf life.

Q3 How long can I store dry ice?

A. We recommend using fresh dry ice within 3-5 days. Properly insulated dry ice can be stored for more than 10 days. However, over time, the ice loses its integrity and becomes soft and powdery. This not only leads to problems with uneven loading of the blast machine (due to loss of density),

it can also show unsatisfactory cleaning results.

Q4 Where can I get dry ice?

A. There is usually more than one provider in your area. Your local Phoenix representative will be more than

will be happy to help you find an ice cream retailer near you. Contact them for more information.

Q5. How are dry ice pellets made?

A. Dry ice is made from liquid carbon dioxide (CO2).

Liquid CO2 is stored in a bulk tank at 300psi. To form dry ice pellets, the liquid CO2 is passed through an opening

or expansion valve into a chamber. The pressure drop created by the opening causes the liquid to turn into gas and dry ice snow. The dry ice snow is then pressed into rice-sized pellets and the gas is

vented to the atmosphere or recovered for reuse. The conversion from liquid to solid is about 46%.

F6. What safety equipment do I need?

A. For most applications: ear plugs or muffs (or both), safety goggles, face shield, gloves, long sleeve shirt, long pants and safety shoes. Self-contained breathing apparatus, self-contained breathing apparatus, coveralls or special clothing may be required for specialized cleaning operations in confined spaces or without ventilation. Check your company’s security policies and regulations for detailed specifications.

F7. How much dry ice will I use?

A. 2-3 pounds per minute is usually sufficient for most cleanings. Phoenix blasters have a variable ice rate that can be adjusted more or less depending on the application.

Q8 Does using more ice per minute speed up my removal rate?

A. Contrary to popular belief, when it comes to dry ice for most applications, more is NOT better. User experience and trial testing will determine exactly what you need to get the job done, and save you a ton of money in the process.

Q9 What are the operating costs?

A. Operating costs depend on feed rate (ice usage setting) and cost per pound of ice. An on-site demo is the best way to determine your actual projected operating costs. Contact your representative to schedule an appointment.

Q10. Can I get an onsite demo?

A. Link: See Demo Q&A – Click Here.

Q11. How do I get training for my new Phoenix blaster?

A. After delivery of your newly purchased system, we offer jump start and safety training at your facility. Commissioning can include classroom and hands-on training, if desired.

Q12. Why should I use dry ice cleaning instead of traditional blasting media?

A. There are numerous positive reasons for integrating dry ice processes. First, with increasing government bans and regulations on dry cleaning, dry ice is an environmentally friendly and effective alternative to current cleaning methods, even being approved in the food industry. Plus, you’ll increase your bottom line with lower disposal costs, not to mention the huge cost savings of product replacement damage incurred over time from blasting with less friendly, abrasive media such as sand, water, soda ash, walnut shells, pearls, etc. In addition, the Most applications can be cleaned online without disassembly and without worrying about sand entrapment or residue, freeing up hours of manpower and ultimately saving your company countless time and money. So you should be asking yourself… why shouldn’t I use dry ice cleaning?

Q13. Does dry ice blasting freeze the contamination?

On a. This is a common misconception about technology. Impurities are not frozen in place and then hit with a hammer to crack and fall to the ground. One should keep in mind that this is a cleaning (not freezing) process. The contamination is penetrated and removed from the substrate to be blasted.

F14. Where does the pollutant go?

A. It moves from an undesirable location to an area where it can be more easily treated. When dry, it usually falls to the ground, where it is swept away or vacuumed during normal maintenance. If it’s a wet substance like grease, be methodical, much like hosing down a driveway. You start at one end and take it to a collection point where it can be vacuumed or wiped down.

Q15. What kind of dry ice do I need?

A. Rice style pellets.

Q16. Can you use dry ice to clean hot tools online?

A. Absolutely. In fact, in most hot tool applications, the removal rate is actually increased due to the thermal shock. Cleaning a cool tool usually takes a little longer.

Q17. What is the power supply and how much do I need?

A. Because Phoenix cleaning systems are 100% pneumatic, no power cords or outlets are required. All you need for easy operation is cool, dry compressed air. Most results can be achieved within a range of 60 CFM at 60 psi up to 220 CFM at 100 psi depending on the application. (High-pressure equipment, of course, requires more for high-end blasting).

Q18 Will dry ice cleaning damage my substrate?

A. Typically, dry ice cleaning is a non-abrasive process. It will not etch or profile a substrate “harder” than the ice itself. On softer surfaces such as wood, plasterboard, soft plastic, etc., damage can sometimes occur if the parameters on the machine are set incorrectly (e.g. blasting pressure too high, ice rate too high, incorrect nozzle selection). For this reason, Phoenix has designed our control systems to be completely variable and thus also suitable for the most delicate applications.

Q19. Does dry ice cleaning cool the substrate?

A. Yes, but generally not as much as you might think. Cooling performance depends on three main factors:

a) Mass of the target area

b) length of stay

c) Ice consumption rate

Usually, however, cooling isn’t a cause for concern. The decreases are minimal for most substrates

Ambient temperature reached within minutes after cleaning is complete.

With our dry ice blasting rust removal, dry ice cleaning services and our exceptional dry ice machines, we are the experts in dry ice offerings in Australia. We are known for supplying the highest density dry ice and we are very proud of that. Committed to providing the highest quality service and products, Cold Jet is committed to maintaining an exceptional standard, including all customer service interactions for rust, corrosion and dry ice coating removal.

That’s why we’ve put together a Frequently Asked Questions section to answer all the common questions about anti-rust dry ice blasting and our dry ice production.

What can dry ice be used for?

Dry ice blasting is the method of using carbon dioxide in a stream of compressed air on surfaces or objects. In the case of dry ice blast rust removal, the technique is extremely effective for rust removal and restoration.

Due to the numerous benefits of dry ice blasting, it can be used for a variety of solutions including (but not limited to):

Adhesive Removal

Coating and corrosion removal

Cleaning of compound tools

Cleaning the core box

equipment cleaning

Historical restoration

rust removal

part machining

remedy

surface preparation

weld cleaning

Dry ice production for airline catering

Dry ice cooling in food processing

Why are the benefits of using dry ice?

Dry ice is environmentally friendly

With our rust dry ice blasting technology, dry ice is much more sustainable than other cleaning methods. Our devices use materials that are inert, non-conductive and non-corrosive. There is no secondary toxic waste, moisture or residue when using our dry ice blasting processes. As a result, our methods produce no harmful chemicals or hazardous waste. In addition, the dry ice used for dry ice blasting against rust is made from reclaimed CO2 and does not add additional CO2 to the atmosphere.

Rust removal by dry ice blasting is safe

The manufacture, production and blasting of dry ice for cleaning is safe as it relies solely on carbon dioxide. The dry ice blasting process is non-toxic and non-flammable. In fact, dry ice is so safe that it has been approved for commercial use around food by the EPA, FDA, and USDA.

Dry ice blasting saves time

Dry ice blasting, especially to remove rust, is incredibly time efficient compared to other cleaning methods. Dry ice blasting offers a significantly faster process resulting in minimized downtime and an increase in productivity. A reduction in labor and the lengthy processes typically associated with rust removal mean that dry ice blasting rust removal is incredibly time-saving and efficient.

Which industries use dry ice?

Cold Jet works with a variety of industries that require the support of dry ice blasting, dry ice cleaning, dry ice production, and dry ice fabrication equipment. At Cold Jet, our experienced technicians also provide leading dry ice training for those who work with dry ice materials on a regular basis.

We cover all areas of dry ice and we firmly believe that with our advanced dry ice technology we can offer a solution for almost every industry. Over the years we have gained an extensive and diverse customer portfolio that demonstrates our capabilities in dry ice solutions. Here are the main industries we typically serve at Cold Jet:

Aerospace Industry

automotive industry

contract cleaning industry

wood-based materials industry

food and beverage industry

foundry industry

medical device industry

mining industry

oil and gas industry

packaging industry

plastics and composites industry

power generation industry

printing industry

public transport industry

restoration and refurbishment industry

rubber and tire industry

textile industry

In the case of dry ice blasting, our services can be used by anyone who needs efficient, effective and sustainable rust removal. Therefore, these services are typically used by professionals in the remediation industry.

Why choose Cold Jet for dry ice blasting rust?

As one of Australia’s oldest dry ice solution providers, we really are the experts when it comes to dry ice blasting rust removal. We are a trusted and reputable Australian owned dry ice company that prides ourselves on exceptional service and products. We are passionate about dry ice blasting against rust and use our state of the art dry ice technologies to offer solutions. Our experienced, knowledgeable and friendly Australian team will always do their utmost to ensure your requirements are both met and exceeded.

If you have any questions, suggestions or would like to speak to one of our dry ice specialists, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Talk to us today to learn more about what our dry ice technology can do for you.

In 2017, SubZero Blasting Services performed underbody stripping of vehicles. We used highly effective compressed air in our mobile dry ice blasting unit on this particular project to ensure waterless dry cleaning for this vehicle.

Mobile cleaning with dry ice blasting

Dry ice is effective, environmentally friendly and anhydrous. It can be used on a number of different surfaces including cleaning manufacturing facilities, household damage from disasters, removing underbody coating from cars, or removing paint from vehicles, signs and other equipment.

Consider dry ice blasting for your tough, large or difficult cleaning jobs

Sun Zero Blasting Services can help you with:

Fire, smoke and mold remediation

Surface cleaning in factories or industrial plants

Cleaning of oil or gas installations

Cleaning of vehicles, factories, households or agricultural equipment

Paint, underseal, rust removal for vehicles

Let us at SubZero Blasting help you with your tough cleaning jobs. Removal of paint, rust, coatings, oil and dirt are difficult to remove by hand. Our professional technicians have the techniques and tools to safely remove adhered substances from your vehicle.

Peterborough, Port Hope, Oshawa, Pickering Mobile Cleaning Services

Serving Southern Ontario, Peterbrough, Port Hope, Cobourg, Oshawa, Pickering and the GTA.

Historical restoration

Dry ice blasting removes paint, mildew, smoke stains, grime, years of scum, and other signs of aging from any surface. It is a powerful and efficient restoration method for historic houses, buildings and even cars.

Advantages of dry ice blasting

Dry ice blasting is aggressive enough to remove paint but sensitive enough to protect your investment. Cleaning with dry ice can remove dirt, remove lead paint and bring out original details.

Unlike abrasive or chemical restoration methods, dry ice blasting does not scratch or contaminate the surface. Instead, it exposes the underlying surface and restores a structure to its original state. Dry ice blasting is easy to control and reaches the tightest cracks and corners without damaging surrounding objects.

Dry ice blasting restores surfaces without leaving secondary waste. This eliminates the cleaning step that traditional grinding techniques cause. Because dry ice sublimates, or turns from a solid to a gas, there is no need to purify water either.

Dry ice blasting is safe for the environment as it does not use any hazardous chemicals or leaves behind hazardous fumes, and it is safe for workers as it is non-flammable and non-conductive.

Coulson Ice Blast answers many questions from customers and potential customers who want to understand the difference between different blast cleaning technologies. Depending on the cleaning applications your business requires, you will find that some media blasting technologies are better suited to your end-of-life goals.

One of the most common questions we get is “What is the difference between wet ice blasting, dry ice blasting and soda blasting?”

This is a big question that needs to be answered in detail. You can read our in-depth website post Soda Blasting vs. Wet vs. Dry Ice Blasting for comparisons of these three different blasting techniques.

History of soda, dry ice and wet ice blasting

History of Soda Blasting

Soda blasting was first introduced to the commercial cleaning industry during the 1984-1986 restoration of the Statue of Liberty. The restoration team, made up of structural and mechanical engineers from France and the United States, faced an extremely challenging situation as they had to remove 9 different coatings and layers of paint, coal tar and primer from the historic statue.

The first seven layers, consisting of paint and coal tar, were finally removed using cryogenic technologies (using liquid nitrogen to embrittle the layers – 195.6 °C). To make matters worse, they were also faced with the removal of two extremely stubborn bitumen coatings.

Removing the bituminous coatings was extremely difficult and engineers sought a stripping technology that would not damage the original substrates. They chose to soda blast these layers and the commercial sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) was donated by Arm & Hammer.

Finally, using soda blasting led to another problem – cleaning up! The baking soda seeped into many areas of the statue, resulting in waste disposal that slowed the entire process. We will go into cleaning issues with soda blasting a little further in this post.

History of dry ice blasting

The history of dry ice is also interesting and we have an in-depth post describing the early uses of dry ice blasting. The first use of dry ice blasting was by the US Navy towards the end of World War II, as shipyard engineers sought a non-abrasive cleaning method for gun maintenance crews.

During the early dry ice blasting experiments at Pearl Harbor, grit blasting was the only blast cleaning process in common use. Sandblasting was WAY TOO ABRASIVE for the Navy’s gunnery maintenance crews. They didn’t want to risk damaging any of the numerous finishes that required paint, salt and corrosion removal.

Dry ice blasting technology continued to advance rapidly through the 1950s and 1960s, resulting in more advanced nozzles, compressed air mixing stages, and improved dry ice pellet technology, which continued at a rapid pace through the 1970s and 1980s.

History of wet ice blasting

In 2012, Coulson Ice Blast changed the cleaning industry again with its advances in wet ice blasting. The challenge they faced was to invent and develop blast cleaning technology that uses regular ice cubes instead of expensive dry ice media. We have a full wet ice blasting post that provides more details on wet ice blasting.

After extensive research and development, Coulson produced the world’s first wet ice blasting machine, known to this day as the “IceStorm90″. You can download our data sheets for the IceStorm90 here. So successful was this first ice blaster that Coulson went on to design a dual-mode ice blaster that would allow the operator to choose between dry ice blasting and wet ice blasting with the simple push of a button. This machine is now on the world market and is called “IceStorm45”. Learn more about Coulson Ice Blast devices here.

Soda blasting and dry ice blasting in comparison

Many applications that require a non-destructive cleaning solution use dry ice blasting and/or soda blasting. Both types of media can result in the cleaning of delicate surfaces such as chrome, gel coats, electrical wiring, hydraulic equipment, plumbing, ducting and much more.

Although both blasting technologies can be ideal for highly sensitive surfaces and both can be more expensive than other blasting solutions, the comparison ends here.

Soda blasting is extremely messy and requires a lot of thorough cleaning, making it even more expensive. Soda blasting also creates hazardous clouds and fog that can be hazardous to workers and laborers. Because of this, soda blasting technicians must be vigilant when using PPE (personal protective equipment).

Dry ice blasting requires very little cleaning as the dry ice sublimates (evaporates) during the blasting process. The only cleaning required after a dry ice blasting operation is removal of the loosened coatings.

Soda blasting and wet ice blasting in comparison

Wet ice blasting can be used for applications that require a slightly more abrasive treatment. The fine ice particles can remove stubborn coatings and dirt while protecting substrates from damage. In addition, an experienced jet technician can avoid damaging the substrate with his nozzle gap management.

For health and safety reasons, soda blasting is far more dangerous compared to wet ice blasting. With wet ice blasting, only water is sprayed into the air. There is always a concern that the detached particles will be compressed and blasted into the air, which is why wet and dry ice blasting technicians still need PPE on the job.

But the cost savings has to be the biggest difference between soda blasting and wet ice blasting.

Wet ice blasting is far less expensive. For a full comparison of dry ice vs. wet ice media costs click here. The combination of cost savings and cleaning power has resulted in Coulson Ice Blast technology making a significant entrance into commercial abrasive markets worldwide.

What is dual mode ice blasting?

After the success of our IceStorm90 ice blaster, we decided to design and manufacture a dual mode ice blaster. With our IceStorm45 dual mode ice blasting machine, operators can choose to use dry ice pellets OR wet ice media (ice cubes) by simply pressing a button and swapping out the ice media.

Here is our IceStorm45 launch video:

Here you can download our data sheet for the IceStorm45

Disadvantages of soda blasting

In our blog post titled “Soda Blasting vs. Wet vs. Dry Ice Blasting” we acknowledge that the cleaning process is known to be the biggest downside of soda blasting compared to wet ice blasting. Here is a quote from an online forum where an experienced contractor describes this issue:

“…soda blasting is very dirty. Lots of sweeping and vacuuming and that accounts for most but needs to be removed and dumped in a location approved by your local authorities. I’ve never used dry ice or wet ice, but the idea of ​​eliminating water vapor and anything that blasts away sounds really appealing…”

1. Comprehensive cleaning is required after the work is completed, and this requires all waste to be removed and disposed of in an environmentally safe and approved location

2. The cost of commercial soda ash can be very high

3. Soda blasting may not be abrasive enough to handle many treatments/applications

Dual mode ice blasting training

If you are interested in exploring the many benefits of dual-mode ice blasting technology, we encourage you to reach out and contact us to learn more. Our team of technicians and service specialists will be happy to answer all your questions. EVEN BETTER… we can offer you a 14-day free trial – with no commitment or pushy sellers. We even cover the shipping costs!

Dry ice blasting requires a simple setup

Along with your dry ice blasting machine, the systems come complete with a blasting and air hose, an applicator and a nozzle best suited to your application. The only other items needed to run the system are:

Compressed air source (either factory air or an air compressor)

Electrical energy source

supply of dry ice

An aftercooler can come in handy when using a portable diesel compressor as an air source. An aftercooler removes most of the moisture from the system and can cool the air to within -9.4°C (15°F) of ambient air. This is primarily dependent on the humidity.

air pressure requirements

Pellet dry ice blasting systems typically consume 100 cfm (2.8 m3/min) at 80 psi (5.5 bar), while microparticle systems typically consume 30 cfm (0.9 m3/min) at 80 psi (5.5 bar). .

Low flow nozzles for systems with microparticles can use as little as 0.3 m³/min (12 cfm) at 5.5 bar (80 psi).

However, your needs also depend on your application.

Do you have further questions about dry ice blasting? Check out our definitive guide to dry ice blasting!

What is dry ice?

A copy of the What is Dry Ice? brochure is available in Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF, 145 KB, 2 pages).

Dry ice is solidified carbon dioxide. When dry ice melts, it turns into carbon dioxide gas. Carbon dioxide gas is always present in the environment, but in low concentrations. It is colorless and odorless.

Use Dry Ice Safely Carbon dioxide gas is heavier than air, so it can collect in basements or other low-ceilinged areas. When transporting dry ice, always keep vehicle windows open to let in fresh air. The amount of dry ice used in a regular freezer or refrigerator is unlikely to produce carbon dioxide gas in sufficient quantities to cause a health problem. Dry ice can easily be used to keep food cool in such containers.

Do I need to take any special precautions when using dry ice?

When handling dry ice, there are a few important precautions to take:

Dry ice is much colder than regular ice and can burn skin in a manner similar to frostbite. When handling, you should wear insulated gloves. Wear safety goggles and a face shield if you cut or chip it.

Keep dry ice out of the reach of children.

Never eat or swallow dry ice.

Avoid breathing carbon dioxide gas.

Can I actually choke on dry ice?

Dry ice can be a very serious hazard in a small space that is not well ventilated. When dry ice melts, it turns into carbon dioxide gas. This gas can accumulate in a small space. If enough carbon dioxide gas is present, a person can become unconscious and in some cases die.

Can I use dry ice in a walk-in fridge or freezer?

It is very dangerous to use dry ice in a walk-in freezer, cooler, enclosed truck bed, or other small space with poor ventilation. A large amount of dry ice in a walk-in refrigerator or freezer can generate a large amount of carbon dioxide, potentially fatal to anyone entering that space.

What are signs that you are being exposed to too much carbon dioxide?

Symptoms of overexposure to carbon dioxide include headaches and difficulty breathing, and with greater exposure, nausea and vomiting.

What are some tips for using dry ice to keep food cool?

Order dry ice in the shape and size you want it to be used in. Cutting can be difficult and dangerous.

Store dry ice in a container that can leak. If not vented, carbon dioxide gas can build up pressure in a jar or container as dry ice melts.

How much dry ice do I need?

The amount of dry ice you need to maintain the temperature in a freezer or refrigerator varies. Some basic tips for using dry ice to chill food are:

In a refrigerator: A home refrigerator can use about 10 pounds of dry ice per day. Dry ice can freeze items, so place food that could be damaged by freezing as far away from dry ice as possible. Put ice on the bottom of a household appliance. Place newspaper or other materials on glass shelves as insulation to prevent the shelves from breaking. Keep liquids tightly covered so they don’t become aerated as the fridge fills up with carbon dioxide.

In a Freezer: A chest freezer can use 40 to 50 pounds per day of dry ice placed on the food.

In a household style fridge freezer: A bottom freezer unit can use 15 to 25 pounds a day when placed on top of groceries. A unit with the freezer on top can use 20 to 30 pounds a day when placed on and around the groceries. A unit with a side-by-side freezer can use 30 to 40 pounds a day when placed on and around food.

How do I dispose of dry ice?

General FAQs:

What is dry ice made of?

Dry ice is made from carbon dioxide. In the process of making dry ice, industry professionals subject the gas to high pressures and extremely low temperatures (109°F), forcing it to condense into its liquid form. They then inject the liquid CO2 into a block press or pelletizer, which forms it into solid blocks.

Where can I buy dry ice?

Dry ice is available at many grocery and general stores. While larger chains like Costco and Walmart likely carry it, some smaller chains may not stock it. When you contact a dry ice supplier, you get a direct and reliable source of dry ice.

How much dry ice do I need?

The amount of dry ice needed for an application depends on many factors, including product weight, packaging, and usage time. These considerations also vary based on the precise application.

For example, the amount needed to keep fresh or to freeze is different. Working with a dry ice specialist can help you determine how much dry ice is required for a specific application.

How much does dry ice cost?

Dry ice is generally priced by weight, but the exact cost varies from one retailer to the next. On average, the price ranges from $1.00 to $3.00 per pound. Some retailers also offer discounts on bulk purchases.

How long does dry ice last?

Several factors – such as packaging, air pressure, outside temperature and thickness of insulation – affect the shelf life of dry ice, making it difficult to estimate the exact duration.

Talking to a dry ice expert like the one at CryoCarb can help you determine how long your dry ice will last.

What are some of the most common uses of dry ice?

Dry ice is used in a variety of retail and commercial applications. Common use cases are:

airline catering

Clean dry ice blasting

food donation

Shipping and Fulfillment of Frozen Food

meat processing

Shipping of medical products

pharmaceutical production

research

Frequently asked questions about shipping, storage and disposal:

How is dry ice shipped?

Dry ice comes in different forms. Depending on the form requested, it can be packaged and shipped in Styrofoam coolers, ice chests ranging in size from picnic coolers to 1500 pound containers. Retail dry ice is typically placed in a small, disposable styrofoam container.

At CryoCarb we offer pellets (in both 3mm and 16mm sizes) and 5 pound blocks. Commercial shipping containers range from 200 pounds to 1,500 pounds.

How do I store dry ice?

When exposed to elevated ambient temperatures, dry ice sublimes into vapor. Although the process cannot be stopped entirely, storing the dry ice in an insulated cooler with minimal headspace in a cold area helps to slow it down. Purchasing the dry ice as close to need as possible also helps minimize the amount lost before use. Dry ice should not be stored in a refrigerator or freezer as the low temperature of the material can cause the device to turn off and/or the build up of carbon dioxide can force it open.

How do I dispose of dry ice?

When fully sublimated, dry ice leaves no waste to dispose of. Simply leave the dry ice in the cooler in a ventilated area so it can safely return to gaseous form. It should never be disposed of down the drain as it can freeze pipes.

Frequently asked questions about security:

Can I use dry ice in my food and drinks?

Dry ice is safe to use as a coolant for food and beverages. However, it should never be consumed as it can lead to serious medical problems such as internal frostbite.

What are the risks of using dry ice?

Dry ice poses serious health and safety risks. For example:

Direct skin contact with dry ice can cause instant frostbite

Dry ice ingestion can cause internal tissue damage from frostbite or fractures due to carbon dioxide buildup

Inhaling large amounts of the carbon dioxide released by sublimation can cause asphyxiation

How do I use dry ice safely?

When using dry ice, to avoid the above risks, keep the following in mind:

When handling dry ice, use gloves, tongs, and other safety equipment to avoid direct skin contact

Be aware of dry ice in consumables and limit its use when consuming alcoholic beverages

Provide good air circulation and ventilation to reduce carbon dioxide build-up in an area

Commercial and retail dry ice solutions from CryoCarb

At CryoCarb, we are the premier manufacturer and supplier of dry ice to the southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois areas. Our dry ice is used in a variety of commercial and retail applications across a variety of industries.

In addition to our range of dry ice products, we also offer the rental of dry ice blasting equipment. These machines serve as a non-abrasive cleaning solution for common contaminants such as mold, glue, paint, and oil and grease that is effective, efficient and environmentally friendly.

If you have additional questions or concerns about dry ice, or are interested in partnering with us for your dry ice needs, give us a call at (888) 254-5931 or contact us today.

There are many different forms of abrasive used to remove tough materials from a surface. One of the most common methods is sandblasting. Sandblasting is a blasting process that uses quartz sand to remove materials from surfaces.

When comparing dry ice blasting versus sandblasting, dry ice can often be the better method. Dry ice blasting uses dry ice pellets or microparticles, which are made from recycled carbon dioxide and sublimate on impact. This process offers many advantages over sandblasting.

Advantages of dry ice blasting

Dry ice blasting offers several advantages compared to sand blasting, the most important being that dry ice blasting is non-abrasive. As a result, the surface is not damaged when material is removed with dry ice. Sandblasting can be a very abrasive method and will damage the surface while removing materials. Sandblasting is not an ideal solution for electronic applications. Neither dry ice blasting nor sandblasting is electrically conductive.

Dry ice blasting is a non-toxic solution for removing aggressive materials from surfaces. Dry ice is a food-grade medium that is EPA, FDA, and USDA certified. Sandblasting can become a hazardous hazardous waste when used to remove harmful chemicals or materials.

Dry ice blasting creates no secondary waste as the dry ice sublimates on impact. This speeds up both cleaning time and cleanup time. Sandblasting creates a lot of secondary waste, which can cause delays and increase costs.

Dry ice is the most environmentally friendly blasting option. We use recycled carbon dioxide collected from other industrial processes to ensure we don’t emit more carbon dioxide into the air. Sandblasting can be biodegradable, but it can also be harmful to the environment.

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air demand

To ensure dry ice blasting runs smoothly and fully meets expectations, your compressed air should meet the following requirements.

Providing a more effective and sustainable solution for environmental cleaning, surface preparation and part finishing without the adverse effects.

Our technology

Cold Jet is an OEM of dry ice blasting solutions that offer a more effective and sustainable alternative to other methods such as abrasive, soda blasting and grit blasting. Dry ice blasting, also known as dry ice cleaning, is an environmentally friendly cleaning and surface preparation technique. Dry ice blasting uses recycled solid carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) pellets or microparticles that are blasted at supersonic speeds and sublimate on impact, removing dirt and contaminants from the underlying substrate.

Dry ice cleaning is non-abrasive, non-conductive, non-toxic and non-flammable. It is also chemical free, water free and generates no secondary waste streams. Our dry ice blasting equipment features unparalleled technology and can be used across a wide range of industries and applications.

Advantages of dry ice blasting

Reduced downtime Significantly faster process leads to longer production times.

Increase Efficiency Clean equipment online without the need for cooldowns and disassembly.

No secondary waste Dry ice blasting creates no secondary waste streams, residue or moisture.

Non-abrasive dry ice is a soft medium that will not harm substrates.

Improved part quality and less scrap Cleaner machines and tools result in higher quality products.

Environmentally friendly Dry ice is made from recycled CO 2 and adds no additional CO 2 to the atmosphere. It also significantly reduces water consumption for sanitation.

Operator Safe Eliminates the need for chemicals and repetitive, manual processes.

Non-toxic and non-conductive Dry ice is a food-grade medium and is safe for commercial use.

More Efficient Labor Allocation The process reduces the time, labor and resources required.

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Historical restoration

Dry ice blasting removes paint, mildew, smoke stains, grime, years of scum, and other signs of aging from any surface. It is a powerful and efficient restoration method for historic houses, buildings and even cars.

Advantages of dry ice blasting

Dry ice blasting is aggressive enough to remove paint but sensitive enough to protect your investment. Cleaning with dry ice can remove dirt, remove lead paint and bring out original details.

Unlike abrasive or chemical restoration methods, dry ice blasting does not scratch or contaminate the surface. Instead, it exposes the underlying surface and restores a structure to its original state. Dry ice blasting is easy to control and reaches the tightest cracks and corners without damaging surrounding objects.

Dry ice blasting restores surfaces without leaving secondary waste. This eliminates the cleaning step that traditional grinding techniques cause. Because dry ice sublimates, or turns from a solid to a gas, there is no need to purify water either.

Dry ice blasting is safe for the environment as it does not use any hazardous chemicals or leaves behind hazardous fumes, and it is safe for workers as it is non-flammable and non-conductive.

Polar Blast is highly recommended for hardwood dry ice cleaning. Dry blasting is mainly used to clean hardwood. In the past, the beams were painted black or left untreated, making them look very dark and almost dull. This gradually led to the destruction of the wood. Color removal could be accomplished by using certain chemicals or sandblasting. Since sandblasting is very time consuming, very messy and removes the topmost artwork of the wood, it is the least preferred. In addition, chemicals can have deleterious effects on the hardwood.

Both of these methods are also hazardous to the health of operators and are considered unclean. The most preferred method is dry ice blasting of Polar Blast wood cleaning products to eliminate such problems. This is the best way to clean hardwood. This is very safe to use and much less messy than the two methods above.

This is gentle on the wood and can also be adjusted according to the operator’s choice. This is a significant time saver and has proven to be highly efficient in terms of work. Its property of not creating secondary waste production is another boon. Dry ice blast cleaning is very beneficial for oak cleaning as it does not damage the wood surface and leaves no cleaning residue. The beams are thoroughly cleaned, removing all dirt from all cracks, cracks and slits (crevices) in the wood. The cost of cleaning dry ice beams is typically around £3.50 per square foot in the UK.

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What do you know about Walmart? If you don’t know everything, here’s what you should know about Walmart: “It’s one of the largest chains in the world that sells goods directly to their customers, and you can get pretty much anything you need here.”

One of the most common questions on the average American’s lips is, “Does Walmart sell dry ice?” Why is that? Because dry ice isn’t easy to come by in local supermarkets, many retailers don’t sell it and its price when you finally get a supermarket that usually sells is discouraging.

SEE ALSO: How to Call in Sick at Walmart

What is dry ice?

Dry ice can be used at home, Halloween party, special occasion, fundraiser dinner, etc., as it is the best way to cool things like ice, beer, fizzy drinks, beverages, etc. in areas with power outages or hot summer days With dry ice you can keep your items cold, make them icy cold, because the iciness of your items for a party makes the atmosphere of your events more exciting.

Will Walmart Sell Ice in 2022?

Yes, as of 2022, most Walmarts will be selling dry ice at their store location. It can be found in the Penguin Freezers, located near the cash registers in front of the store. It’s easy to find with the Penguin branded “dry ice” sign. Normally, a pound of dry ice at Walmart costs $1.44.

The cost of dry ice at Walmart

The price of dry ice varies depending on the store location. Although for most Walmart stores that sell ice cream, the only brand they sell is the Penguin dry ice. Walmart has the cheapest price for Ice than its competitors. At Walmart, dry ice sells for $1.44 a pound, while other stores sell theirs for $1.00 to $3.00 a pound. However, other stores at Walmart locations could sell for a lower price.

Location of dry ice in Walmart?

Ice is very delicate so it is stored in Penguin dry ice freezers to prevent it from melting and to keep it cool as ice is best experienced in its cold and takes about 24 hours to gasify.

The location of the dry ice is near the cash desk on the front of the store. If it’s still hard to find, you can contact a Walmart representative to save you the time of roaming.

If you must purchase a dry ice block, make sure you wear gloves and bring a cooler to keep the heat out of home to store your purchase. This cooler can also be purchased at a Walmart store.

ALSO SEE: Walmart Cart Pusher Job Description, Responsibilities, and Salary

Can dry ice be ordered online?

If you order online, it needs to be delivered to your doorstep. However, such delivery for dry ice is not available on the Walmart website. There is information about dry ice online, but ordering is not offered.

Because dry ice is sensitive and has a short lifespan, when stored in a cool box it turns into a gas between 18 and 24 hours. This short lifespan makes shipping tricky.

Why do few and not all Walmarts sell dry ice?

Not all Walmarts sell dry ice because it is more difficult to store and transport than regular ice. A dried ice cream cannot be stored with other frozen products as it freezes at -109.3°F or -78.5°C. Its weight is about 4 times that of normal water.

How do I find a Walmart store that has dry ice near me?

Since not all Walmart stores sell dry ice, the best way to find out is to call the store to make sure they sell what you need. Online inquiries can sometimes be impossible as it is different from all other products.

To find the stores closest to you, use the Store Location Application on your smartphone. This will also show you the address and phone number of the store. All that is required from you for the application is your zip code, city or state.

You can inquire about dry ice with a single phone call.

SEE ALSO: Walmart Dress Code – Career Opportunities

Conclusion

Dry ice can be purchased at Walmart stores, but not all stores. So if you need dry ice for one of your events, whether you’re in a hurry or want to save time, give your local Walmart a call for answers.

Your dry ice should be purchased a few hours before use as it evaporates quickly. Don’t buy a day in advance.

Have you ever bought dry ice from a local Walmart store near you? Was it easy to find? And have you had bad experiences with dry ice? Use the comment section to share while others learn. If this blog post was helpful, please share.