Feasibility Study: Tank Blasting Using Recoverable Steel Grit
Abstract
Abrasive blasting of tanks and other enclosed spaces on-board ships comprises a large part of the work effort and budget allocated to surface preparation and coating for both new construction and repair contracts. Traditionally, disposable abrasives such as copper and coal slag have been used for tank blasting. The use of recoverable steel grit for tank blasting would appear to reduce or eliminate many of the problems associated with slag and mineral abrasives. Due to the durability and toughness of steel, steel grit can be reused many hundreds of times. Significantly smaller volumes of abrasive waste are generated for disposal. The durability of steel grit also results in very low dust generation, since the particles do not readily break down into fines. The recovery of steel abrasive through a vacuum recovery system greatly decreases environmental hazards by trapping paint chips and dust, which are segregated from the reusable abrasive. The higher density of steel grit in comparison to other abrasives produces increased cutting ability, while improving worker visibility through decreased dust generation. The increased cutting and low dust equate to increased productivity. Finally, the use of steel grit would not trigger the costly sampling and testing requirements of MILA- 22262A, since steel abrasive is not covered under this specification.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA458692
Entities
People
- Al Hamilton
- Alan Coffer
- H. W. Hitzrot
- Jerry Keener
- Les Hansen
Organizations
- National Steel and Shipbuilding Company