NEWS

Shot peening is a mechanical process that enhances the performance and durability of components, particularly gears, in various industries. This method involves bombarding the surface of the gears with small spherical media, or “shots,” which introduces beneficial compressive stresses and alters the material properties. Below, we explore the reasons and benefits of shot peening gears in detail.

1. Enhanced Fatigue Resistance

One of the primary reasons for shot peening gears is its ability to significantly improve fatigue resistance. Gears are often subjected to cyclic loading conditions, which can lead to the formation of fatigue cracks. Shot peening introduces compressive residual stresses on the surface of the gears. These compressive stresses counteract the tensile stresses that occur during operation, effectively increasing the fatigue life of the gears. By delaying the onset of crack initiation, shot peening allows gears to perform reliably over extended periods.

2. Stress Redistribution

The shot peening process not only creates compressive stresses but also redistributes surface stresses throughout the gear. This redistribution is crucial because it mitigates the concentration of stresses that can lead to premature failure. The treatment modifies the surface profile and characteristics, allowing for more uniform stress distribution under load. This helps gears to handle operational demands more effectively, reducing the risk of catastrophic failures.

3. Surface Hardening

In addition to improving fatigue resistance, shot peening enhances the hardness of the gear surface. The impact of the shot causes plastic deformation of the surface material, which can lead to an increase in hardness. This hardened surface is less susceptible to wear and abrasion, which is particularly important in applications where gears are exposed to harsh environments. The improved surface hardness can also help prevent pitting and scoring, further extending the lifespan of the gears.

4. Improved Surface Finish

The process of shot peening can contribute to a better surface finish on gears. A smoother surface reduces friction and enhances the lubrication retention of gear teeth during operation. Improved lubrication can lead to lower operating temperatures and less wear over time, making the gears more efficient. This also contributes to reduced noise levels during operation, which is a desirable quality in many applications.

5. Increased Load Capacity

With enhanced fatigue strength and improved surface properties, shot-peened gears can carry greater loads than untreated gears. This increased load capacity allows for the design of smaller, lighter, and more efficient gear systems without compromising performance. Manufacturers can achieve better power transmission while reducing material usage, which is particularly beneficial in aerospace and automotive applications where weight reduction is critical.

6. Extended Service Life

The cumulative benefits of shot peening—enhanced fatigue resistance, stress redistribution, surface hardening, and improved lubrication—contribute to a significantly extended service life for gears. Longer operational life translates to reduced maintenance requirements and lower total cost of ownership for equipment. This is especially advantageous in industries where downtime for repairs can be costly and disruptive.

7. Cost-Effectiveness

While shot peening involves an initial investment in terms of equipment and processing, the long-term savings are substantial. The reduction in maintenance costs, fewer replacements, and enhanced gear performance can yield a favorable return on investment. Companies can also avoid the costs associated with unplanned downtimes, making shot peening a cost-effective solution over the gear's lifecycle.

8. Versatility of Application

Shot peening is versatile and can be applied to a variety of gear types and materials. Whether the gears are made from steel, aluminum, or other alloys, shot peening can enhance their performance. This versatility makes it a valuable treatment option across many industries, including automotive, aerospace, and heavy machinery.

Conclusion

In summary, shot peening is an essential process for enhancing the performance and durability of gears. By improving fatigue resistance, redistributing stresses, increasing surface hardness, and extending service life, shot peening ensures that gears can meet the demands of modern applications. The benefits of reduced maintenance, increased load capacity, and cost-effectiveness make shot peening a worthwhile investment for manufacturers and operators alike. As industries continue to push the boundaries of performance and efficiency, shot peening will remain a vital technique in gear manufacturing and maintenance.

Shotblasting is a vital pre-treatment process in the surface preparation of materials before the application of electrostatic and powder coatings. By employing this abrasive technique, manufacturers can significantly enhance the quality, adhesion, and longevity of the coatings applied. Shotblasting involves propelling a stream of abrasive material, such as steel shots or grit, at high velocity onto the surface of a material, thereby cleaning it and creating a textured surface. This method is especially important in industries where the durability and aesthetic quality of coatings are critical, such as automotive, aerospace, and construction. Below, we delve into how shotblasting contributes to the effectiveness of electrostatic and powder coating processes.

Surface Cleaning and Contaminant Removal

One of the primary benefits of shotblasting is its ability to thoroughly clean surfaces before coating. Materials such as metal, wood, or plastic often accumulate dirt, rust, mill scale, grease, and other contaminants during manufacturing, storage, or handling. These contaminants can severely impact the adhesion of electrostatic and powder coatings if not properly removed. Shotblasting effectively strips away these unwanted substances, leaving behind a clean, bare surface that is ready for coating. This cleaning process is more thorough and uniform compared to chemical cleaning methods, as it reaches even the most difficult-to-access areas and ensures that the entire surface is consistently prepared.

Surface Roughening and Texture Creation

Another critical aspect of shotblasting is its ability to roughen the surface of the material being treated. The abrasive action of the steel shots or grit against the material creates a textured surface, which is essential for improving the mechanical bond between the substrate and the coating. Electrostatic and powder coatings adhere better to roughened surfaces because the increased surface area allows for more contact points, thereby enhancing the mechanical interlocking of the coating. This improved adhesion results in coatings that are less likely to peel, chip, or flake off, even under harsh environmental conditions. The surface profile created by shotblasting can be controlled by adjusting the type, size, and hardness of the abrasive material used, allowing manufacturers to tailor the surface texture to meet specific coating requirements.

Enhanced Coating Uniformity and Coverage

The uniformity of the surface after shotblasting directly influences the consistency and thickness of the electrostatic and powder coatings applied. A smooth, even surface ensures that the coating is applied uniformly, reducing the risk of uneven thickness, runs, or sags in the final product. This is particularly important in powder coating, where the application process involves electrostatically charging the powder particles and spraying them onto the surface. Any irregularities on the surface can disrupt the electrostatic field and lead to uneven deposition of the powder, resulting in a less durable and aesthetically pleasing finish. Shotblasting ensures that the surface is free from imperfections that could compromise the coating’s appearance and performance.

Improved Corrosion Resistance

Corrosion is a significant concern in industries where metal components are exposed to moisture, chemicals, or other corrosive environments. Electrostatic and powder coatings are often used to protect these components from corrosion, but the effectiveness of the coating depends heavily on the surface preparation. Shotblasting plays a crucial role in enhancing the corrosion resistance of coated materials by removing corrosion-prone elements such as rust and mill scale and creating a profile that allows for better coating adhesion. When a coating adheres well to the substrate, it forms a more effective barrier against corrosive elements, extending the lifespan of the component and reducing maintenance costs.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

The shotblasting process is not only effective but also environmentally friendly compared

to chemical cleaning methods, which often involve hazardous substances that require special handling and disposal. Shotblasting uses reusable abrasive materials, and the process generates minimal waste, making it a more sustainable option for surface preparation. Economically, shotblasting can reduce the overall cost of the coating process by minimizing the need for rework due to coating failures. The enhanced adhesion and durability of coatings on shotblasted surfaces mean that components are less likely to require touch-ups or replacements, leading to cost savings over the product's lifecycle.

Conclusion

In summary, shotblasting is a critical step in the preparation of materials for electrostatic and powder coating. Its ability to clean, roughen, and uniformly prepare surfaces significantly improves the adhesion, durability, and appearance of coatings. By enhancing corrosion resistance and providing environmental and economic benefits, shotblasting ensures that the final coated product meets the high standards required in various industries. As such, manufacturers who invest in proper shotblasting techniques can achieve superior coating results, ultimately leading to more reliable and long-lasting products.

Latem Industries Limited has been in the shotblasting industry for over 40 years.  We are also using our past experience with aquence coating and powder coating to open a new e-coating/powder coating line, which will be available in the new year. 

Let Latem assist you with these requirements! Please contact us today.

Shot blasting with glass or ceramic media is a highly effective surface preparation technique utilized across a spectrum of industries for various applications. This method involves propelling small, spherical beads of glass or ceramic at high velocity onto a surface to achieve desired cleaning, finishing, or texturing effects. This process is integral in tasks ranging from rust removal on metal surfaces to creating matte finishes on delicate materials like glass.

Fundamentals of Shot Blasting:

Shot blasting is a mechanical surface treatment method aimed at altering the surface properties of a material. Glass and ceramic media are often preferred choices due to their uniformity in size, shape, and hardness. The process typically involves the following key components:

1. Media Selection: Glass beads and ceramic beads are the primary media options, each offering distinct characteristics. Glass beads, made from recycled glass, provide a softer, smoother finish suitable for delicate surfaces. On the other hand, ceramic beads, composed of zirconia-alumina-silica, offer enhanced durability and are ideal for tougher materials requiring more aggressive treatment.
2. Surface Preparation: Before shot blasting commences, the target surface undergoes thorough cleaning to remove contaminants such as oil, grease, rust, or existing coatings. This preparatory step ensures optimal adhesion and promotes the effectiveness of the shot blasting process.
3. Blasting Process: The chosen media is propelled onto the surface at high velocity using specialized equipment like blast cabinets or blast rooms. Compressed air or centrifugal force propels the beads, causing them to impact the surface, dislodging contaminants, oxides, or unwanted coatings.

Advantages of Glass and Ceramic Media:

1. Precision: Glass and ceramic media offer precise control over surface finishing. The size and shape uniformity of the beads allow for consistent results, making them suitable for applications requiring high levels of accuracy and repeatability.
2. Versatility: These media can be tailored to suit a wide range of materials and surface conditions. Whether it's delicate glassware, hardened steel, or composite materials, shot blasting with glass or ceramic media can effectively address diverse surface treatment requirements.
3. Minimal Material Removal: Unlike traditional abrasive blasting methods that rely on sharp-edged particles, glass and ceramic beads exert less aggressive force, resulting in minimal material removal. This characteristic makes them particularly suitable for applications where preserving substrate integrity is crucial.
4. Environmental Sustainability: Glass and ceramic media are environmentally friendly options due to their recyclability. After use, the beads can be collected, cleaned, and reused multiple times, minimizing waste generation and promoting sustainable practices.

Applications of Shot Blasting with Glass or Ceramic Media:

1. Automotive Industry: Shot blasting is commonly employed in the automotive sector for tasks such as paint removal, surface preparation prior to coating application, and refurbishing of engine components. Glass and ceramic media provide an effective means of achieving desired surface finishes without compromising the integrity of automotive parts.
2. Aerospace Industry: In aerospace manufacturing, shot blasting plays a crucial role in preparing aircraft components for various processes, including bonding, painting, and corrosion protection. Glass and ceramic media ensure the desired surface cleanliness and roughness required for optimal performance and longevity of aerospace structures.
3. Construction Sector: Shot blasting is widely used in construction for cleaning and profiling concrete surfaces, removing surface contaminants, and preparing substrates for waterproofing or coating applications. Glass and ceramic media offer an efficient and environmentally friendly solution for achieving smooth, uniform finishes on concrete surfaces.
4. Metalworking and Fabrication: Metalworking industries utilize shot blasting with glass or ceramic media for descaling, deburring, and surface texturing of metal components. Whether it's preparing weld seams or enhancing surface roughness for improved adhesion, these media facilitate precise control over surface properties, leading to enhanced product quality and performance.

In conclusion, shot blasting with glass or ceramic media is a versatile and efficient surface preparation technique with widespread applications across industries. From automotive manufacturing to aerospace engineering and beyond, the use of glass and ceramic beads enables precise control over surface finishes while promoting environmental sustainability through recycling and waste reduction. By leveraging the unique properties of glass and ceramic media, industries can achieve superior surface treatment results while minimizing material waste and environmental impact.

Latem Industries Limited offers glass, ceramic and steel shot blasting options.  Let our 40+ years of experience work for you. Contact us to find out more.

Rust is indeed not just a concern confined to the summer months; it is a pervasive and year-round issue that affects various aspects of our lives. While many might associate rust with the corrosion of metal during humid and warm weather, the reality is that rust can manifest in different forms and contexts throughout the year.

Firstly, let's delve into the science behind rust. Rust, scientifically known as iron oxide, is a product of the reaction between iron, oxygen, and water or moisture. This chemical process occurs continuously, irrespective of the season. While warmer temperatures and higher humidity levels may accelerate the rusting process, cold and dry conditions do not exempt materials from corrosion. In fact, during winter, the presence of salt on roads for de-icing purposes can exacerbate rusting on vehicles and infrastructure.

In the automotive industry, rust is a persistent issue that demands attention regardless of the season. Road salt, used to melt ice on winter roads, not only poses a threat to vehicles' external surfaces but also accelerates the corrosion of essential components like the undercarriage, brake lines, and exhaust systems. This continuous exposure to salt-laden environments, combined with fluctuating temperatures, makes rust a year-round concern for vehicle owners.

Furthermore, the impact of rust extends beyond the physical deterioration of materials. Rust can have significant economic implications, especially in industries where metal structures play a crucial role. For example, in construction and infrastructure development, the longevity and safety of bridges, buildings, and pipelines are compromised when rust sets in. The cost of repairs and maintenance increases, contributing to a continuous financial burden on both public and private sectors.

In conclusion, rust is not a seasonal problem limited to the summer months; it is a multifaceted challenge that affects various aspects of our lives year-round. Whether it's the corrosion of metal in vehicles and infrastructure, the impact on agriculture and food security, or the digital rust threatening our technological advancements, addressing rust requires a holistic and continuous approach. Recognizing the pervasive nature of rust allows us to implement proactive measures and innovative solutions to mitigate its effects and ensure the longevity and sustainability of our built environment, industries, and digital landscapes.

Latem Industries can assist you with your rust issues.  We have multiple options for removing rust, including shot blasting, burn-off and ultrasonic cleaning.  Each has its individual pros and cons. 

Give us a call at Latem Industries Limited and let our rust removal knowledge assist you.

Shot peening is a widely used method in the realm of materials engineering and manufacturing to enhance the strength and durability of metal components. This process involves bombarding a metal surface with small, round particles, typically shot media such as steel, ceramic, or glass beads, using specialized equipment like air-driven turbines or centrifugal wheels. The impact of these particles induces beneficial residual stresses in the surface layers of the metal, resulting in improved mechanical properties.

The primary mechanism behind shot peening lies in the introduction of compressive residual stresses and the creation of a more uniform surface. As the shots strike the metal surface, they create numerous indentations or dimples. These indentations plastically deform the surface, inducing compressive stresses while simultaneously work-hardening the affected layer. This process alters the surface microstructure, increasing its resistance to fatigue, stress corrosion cracking, and other forms of material degradation.

The compressive residual stresses formed during shot peening act as a barrier against crack initiation and propagation. By countering the tensile stresses that naturally occur during material processing or use, shot peening helps to minimize the potential for crack formation. Consequently, the component's fatigue life is significantly extended, making it more reliable under cyclic loading conditions.

Furthermore, shot peening alters the material's surface morphology, smoothing out irregularities and removing micro-defects. This results in a more uniform and refined surface finish. The process can also induce strain hardening, which increases the material's strength and hardness.

The effectiveness of shot peening depends on various parameters, including the type and size of the shot media, peening intensity, coverage, and the material being treated. The choice of shot material and size is crucial as it determines the energy transfer and the depth of the compressive layer. Ceramic shots, for instance, provide deeper compressive layers compared to steel shots due to their higher density and hardness.

Peening intensity, typically measured by parameters like Almen intensity, determines the energy imparted to the surface. Monitoring and controlling this intensity are critical to achieving the desired residual stress profiles without causing surface damage or overworking the material.

Full coverage during shot peening ensures uniform properties across the entire surface. However, it's essential to balance coverage with the risk of overworking or potentially damaging the material, especially in complex geometries or areas with restricted accessibility.

Despite its numerous advantages, shot peening has its limitations and considerations. One such consideration is the potential for hydrogen embrittlement, particularly in high-strength steels. The process can introduce hydrogen into the material, which may cause cracking and reduce the material's ductility. Proper post-peening treatments or material selection can mitigate this risk.

In summary, shot peening is a versatile and effective method for strengthening metals by inducing compressive residual stresses, improving surface finish, and enhancing fatigue resistance. Its application spans various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing, where components are subjected to high cyclic loads or harsh operating conditions. By understanding and optimizing the parameters involved, shot peening remains a valuable technique for enhancing the performance and longevity of metal components.

To understand why burn-off and blasting are the solution, we first will delve into what industry service we are referring to, and why it affects them.

E-coat and Powder coat are two common coatings used in many industries.  Toys, medical, agricultural, automotive, aerospace, furniture, mining and others all use one or both of these coatings.  

E-coating (electrocoating, electrophoretic deposition) is an immersion wet paint finish.  It uses an electrical current to attract the paint particles to the metal surface. 

Powder coating is a spray method.  This application method uses a spray gun, which applies an electrostatic charge to the powder particles, which are then attracted to the grounded part.  

When paint defects occur during either of these coating procedures, the first thing usually inspected is the grounding.  There needs to be some kind of connection from the part to the earthen ground, i.e the racks or hangers used to hang the parts.  If the contact between the part to be coated and the hook it is hanging on does not have good metal to metal contact, the charge will not pass through as easily and the coating suffers.  So, without going into great detail about the workings of these coatings, clean racks/hooks are essential. When coating parts, build up occurs on these racks/tooling and must be removed.  Also, improperly coated parts will need to be stripped to be re-coated. This is where Latem Industries Limited can help.

Removing e-coating and powder coating can be difficult.  The choice of method often depends on the substrate, environmental concerns, and timeline.  Each method has advantages and disadvantages that must be considered.  Listed below are a few options for paint removal.

Chemical Stripping:  Using chemical strippers designed specifically for removing coatings.  They usually contain solvents such as methylene chloride or other potent chemicals. This process may pose environmental and health hazards due to the toxicity of the chemicals.  Proper safety precautions and disposal protocols are crucial.

Thermal Methods:  Heat can be used to remove coatings.  Typically done in a burn-off oven, this method melts the coating off.  Parts must be able to handle the high temperatures required to remove the paint.

Media Blasting:  More effective on e-coating, powder coating sometimes proves too durable to be removed in this manner.  Media or water is propelled at a high speed onto the surface, removing the coating.  This method may cause surface roughness or profile changes.

Mechanical Methods:  By grinding or sanding the part, eventually the coating is removed.  This process is very time consuming and labour-intensive.

Latem Industries Limited offers both burn-off and blasting as methods to remove e-coat, powder coat and liquid coatings from both parts, tooling and racks. 

Contact us for more information.

Shot blasting with aluminum oxide is a widely used surface preparation and finishing technique that offers several advantages and disadvantages. In this comprehensive overview, we will delve into the pros and cons of using aluminum oxide for shot blasting, providing insights into its various applications and considerations.

Pros of Shot Blasting with Aluminum Oxide:

• Effective Surface Cleaning: Aluminum oxide is an excellent abrasive material that effectively removes contaminants, rust, paint, and other surface impurities. It leaves surfaces clean and ready for further treatment or coating.

• Highly Abrasive: Aluminum oxide is a hard and tough abrasive, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. It can efficiently remove even stubborn coatings and rust.

• Surface Roughening: Shot blasting with aluminum oxide creates a textured or roughened surface profile. This is beneficial for applications like paint or coating adhesion, as the rough surface provides better mechanical bonding.

• Versatility: Aluminum oxide is suitable for various substrates, including metal, concrete, and some plastics. It can be used in diverse industries, such as automotive, aerospace, construction, and manufacturing.

• Reusable: Aluminum oxide abrasives can often be recycled and reused, reducing overall material costs and environmental impact.

• Speed and Efficiency: Shot blasting with aluminum oxide is a relatively fast and efficient process, allowing for high production rates.

• Consistency: It provides consistent results across a treated surface, ensuring uniformity and quality in surface preparation.

• Durability: Aluminum oxide abrasives maintain their abrasive properties for a long time, reducing the need for frequent replacement.

• Environmentally Friendly: Compared to some other abrasive materials, aluminum oxide is considered more environmentally friendly due to its recyclability and lower levels of hazardous byproducts.

• Surface Restoration: Shot blasting can be used to restore surfaces by removing old coatings, corrosion, and other defects, extending the life of equipment and structures.

Cons of Shot Blasting with Aluminum Oxide:

• Dust and Debris: Shot blasting generates a significant amount of dust and debris, which can be a health hazard to workers and require effective dust collection systems.

• Environmental Impact: While aluminum oxide is more environmentally friendly than some other abrasives, its production still has environmental impacts, and disposal of used abrasives must be managed properly.

• Equipment Costs: Shot blasting machines and equipment can be expensive to purchase and maintain, making it a significant initial investment.

• Operator Skill: Proper training and skill are required to operate shot blasting equipment effectively and safely.

• Surface Profile Control: Achieving the desired surface profile can be challenging, as it depends on factors like abrasive size, equipment settings, and operator expertise.

• Limited Precision: Shot blasting is not suitable for precision work, as it can be difficult to control the depth of material removal accurately.

• Substrate Damage: Inexperienced operators or improper equipment settings can result in substrate damage, especially on delicate surfaces.

• Noise Pollution: Shot blasting machines can produce high levels of noise, requiring hearing protection for operators and considerations for nearby workers and residents.

• Consumable Costs: While aluminum oxide abrasives are durable, they are still consumables, and their cost can add up over time, especially for large-scale projects.

• Surface Contamination: If not properly cleaned, residues of aluminum oxide abrasive may remain on the treated surface, potentially causing issues in subsequent processes or applications.

In summary, shot blasting with aluminum oxide offers numerous advantages, such as effective surface cleaning, versatility, and environmental benefits. However, it also comes with challenges, including dust management, equipment costs, and the need for skilled operators. The choice to use aluminum oxide for shot blasting should consider the specific application requirements, cost considerations, and environmental impact, as well as the importance of proper safety measures to protect workers and the environment.

Abrasive blast is a popular method of industrial surface finishing that works by shooting powerful streams of abrasive materials at a surface of a part.  This is done to strengthen the part or to break down the outer layer to reveal the clean layer underneath. Because all three are abrasive techniques, they often get mistakenly interchanged.  The following will show the differences between these three processes.

Sandblasting equipment uses water or compressed air to bombard the part with a media at high speeds.  The media originally used was Silica sand, hence the name Sandblasting.  But due to respiratory health issues, this has since been replaced by organic media or glass.  Although this method uses media at high speeds, the speed is not as high as shot blasting or peening.  Therefore, sandblasting is commonly used on more fragile materials, such as wood, plastic and glass.

Shot-blasting equipment is special equipment that often uses centrifugal force to blast a part with media.  The media is fed into centrifugal wheel which propels the media at the surface of the part. The shot is then sifted and the good shot is returned via elevator back into the centrifugal wheel to again be propelled at the surface of the part.  Dust collectors remove the dust and used shot.   The media used is steel shot or grit, or aluminum oxide.  Shot-blasting uses higher speeds than sandblasting, so it can be much more abrasive.  It is excellent at removing rust, imperfections and paint, as well as being used for edge-breaking and as a creating an excellent surface finish for painting, coating, or powder coating.  There are also shot-blasting equipment that used compressed air and nozzles for a more direct or focused blast.  These machines usually use an aluminum oxide media.

Shot Peening equipment is the same as shot blasting.  It is similar to shot blasting, differing slightly in the process and in the end result. While blasting relies on an abrasive process to chip away minute pieces of the product, shot peening relies more on the mechanism of plasticity. Each particle acts as a ball-peen hammer. The goal of shot peening, more often than not, is to replace tensile stress with compressive stress, therefore strengthening the part.  Medias used include aluminum oxide or steel grit/shot.

Latem Industries Limited offers both Shot Peening and Shot-blasting.  We have been in the industry for over 45 years, and have great experience and knowledge, as well as a highly trained staff.  Let us assist you with your blasting and peening needs.

Contact us for find out more.

Mill scale is the flaky surface that forms on hot-rolled steel.  It is a by-product of manufacturing hot-rolled metal plates and sheets, occurring as the surface oxidizes during the heating, conditioning and hot-rolling processes.  It usually has a bluish-black appearance and can be flaky or powdery.  Due to its non-uniform texture and thickness, mill scale chips easily.

Why is Mill Scale Undesirable?

Mill scale can cause issues with next-stage processes.  Coatings you apply will chip off as the scale peels off.  Mill scale can also affect welding.  The scale behaves as a thermal and electrical insulator. Steel is a natural thermal and electrical conductor.  Therefore, by acting as an insulator, the scale diminishes puddle fluidity and creates arc instability.  Also, the impurities found in the scale, such as oxygen, can release into the steel.  This leads to increased porosity which will weaken the joint.

Removing Mill Scale from Iron or Stainless Steel?

Metal manufacturers know that shot blasting can strengthen, polish, and clean metal. It is also excellent at removing mill scale.  It is fast and cost-efficient.  In addition to removing the mill scale, the valleys and peaks created by the blast process increase surface area for the coating to adhere to.   We can apply a water based rust inhibitor that will protect the part from oxidization but will not impede welding. 

Latem Industries offers a diverse line of blasting equipment which includes monorail, tumble blast, conveyor and swing table to meet your blasting needs.  A variety of shot sizes also allows us to best suit your requirements.

So whether you require scale removal, shot peening, white metal cleaning, rust removal, casting deflashing, or a uniform finish, give Latem a chance to show you what we can do.

For further information on shot blasting, or to request a quote, please contact us or visit our webpage at www.Latem.com

Nobody wants rusty parts.  And nobody is happy when they find previously good parts are suddenly covered in rust.

Rust or corrosion is a significant issue in manufacturing facilities large and small, impacting resources and increasing operating costs. Rust is difficult to prevent and nearly impossible to anticipate on manufactured parts.

When rust occurs, leading manufacturers look to Latem Industries for metal finishing solutions. Here’s how we can help.

Understanding Rust

What is rust – the short answer?

Rusting is defined as the chemical process in which there is a formation of red or orange coat on the surface of the metals. Rusting is a part of corrosion.

Surface rust can be spotted or flaky and does not protect the underlying iron, which enables the oxide to grow. With enough time, oxygen and moisture will eventually convert an iron part entirely to rust and disintegrate it.

Removing Rust

Latem Industries offers various processes to remove rust or corrosion from processed parts.  Let’s review some of these options.

Shot blasting

Compared to performing rust removal by hand, shot-blasting is significantly faster. It can be very cost effective as well.  The rusty part must be free of any moisture or oils before shot blasting, so a pre-wash/dry may be required.  Shot blasting will remove rust and many coatings, if required, from metal parts.  However, it can damage threads, or delicate surface areas. 

Vibratory finishing

Vibratory finishing is ideal for parts and components made of softer metals that would be susceptible to distortion or stresses in a tumbling process.  Using a combination of water, media and compounds inside a vibratory bowl, the friction the parts experience removes the rust.  Once the process is complete and the rust is gone, special rust inhibitors are added to the vibratory bowl to ensure the parts and components are protected from recurring corrosion.  Again, another very cost-effective way to do many parts at once.  Part size limitations due to bowl size can be a factor.

Tumble barrel finishing

Barrel tumbling is a mass metal finishing technique that can be used to remove rust. It involves placing rusty pieces into a horizontal barrel, along with compounds and sometimes finishing media, and using centrifugal force to work a clean surface. Excellent process with smaller parts.  Media lodging can be a concern.

Ultrasonic

Ultrasonic rust removal involves placing the rusted pieces into a cavitation bath.  Using special rust removal compounds, the rust is removed from the parts.  If pitting has occurred due to the rust, this pitting will not be removed in this process.  However, the ultrasonic process is excellent for threaded, frail, or delicate parts.

The best process for removing rust from mass quantities of parts is often determined by the extent of the corrosion and the geometry of the part.

Latem Industries Limited offers each of these solutions to our customers.  If you are having issues with parts, small or large, contact Latem and let us work our magic!