Industrial dry ice cleaning

Dry ice is a multifaceted cooling agent that does not turn into water, but sublimates into a gaseous state. Its temperature of -78.48°C is close to Antarctic records! 

It turns out that due to its amazing physical properties, dry ice in pellet form is an ideal cleaning agent that works well in industry to remove contaminants from sensitive tools and equipment.

What is dry ice cleaning?

The dry ice cleaning process uses granules that strike the selected item, thereby causing a sudden, spot cooling of the coating or dirt you plan to remove. Due to their high kinetic energy, dry ice pellets not only deform and crush – they also create micro-fractures in the dirt layer as they impact the workpiece. The dry ice particles then enter and increase their volume up to 1000 times to separate the unwanted layer from the selected surface.

 

The medium used throughout the procedure changes to a gaseous state. Unlike most traditional techniques, dry ice cleaning is not an abrasive process. No scratches or wear appear on the surface.

Benefits of dry ice cleaning

What makes customers more and more willing to opt for dry ice cleaning?

  • Continuity of plant operations – machine maintenance is possible while the plant is running: it does not require dismantling or interruptions to production, and therefore does not generate a disruption to the company’s schedule.
  • Non-invasive – no chemicals or abrasives are used in dry ice cleaning, so the process does not damage the surface.
  • Ecology – dry ice goes from a solid to a gas, skipping the liquid state (it sublimates). The dry ice cleaning process therefore does not become a cause of additional contamination.
  • Safety for electrical equipment – this is the only dry cleaning method for electrical installations that is so effective.

Dry ice – application

Dry ice cleaning allows for simultaneous application in several objects with different geometries, therefore the technology is most often used to remove contaminants from plastic and rubber molds. It is also great for degreasing surfaces, which is why it is successfully used in the food, wood and paper industries. It can also be used to remove paint or corrosion.

 

In order for dry ice to retain its valuable properties, it must be stored properly. The best protection is an insulated container:

  • made of polystyrene foam – in case of small volumes,
  • rotomolded with insulated lid or thick top caps – for large volumes.

The thick insulation helps slow the rate of dry ice (CO2) sublimation that leads to expansion or rupture of the container. Be sure to keep the container in a well-ventilated area.

FAQ - frequently asked questions about ice blasting

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