Steel tanks and metal structures corrode over time. When this happens, your tank’s structural integrity will deteriorate. The best means to get rid of corrosion and rust on your tank surface is steel sandblasting. This method can strip the existing coating on a steel surface down to the bare substrate.

Steel tank sandblasting is necessary before painting the steel’s surface. It is one of the most efficient ways to prepare steel surfaces. You can think of it as sanding, as it provides the same profile on the surface for better adhesion. The list below will explain why sandblasting steel tanks is necessary.

Sandblasting to remove rust

Metal tanks are prone to rust, especially in coastal and moist areas. Do not ignore rust on steel tanks as it could cause further damage when not removed. The most popular method to control rust on steel tanks is to apply paint on their surface. Meanwhile, sandblasting is the fastest and easiest way to remove rust on steel surfaces.

Coatings of paint can only adhere better on metal surfaces when quality surface preparation is applied. Sandblasting creates a suitable surface condition for primers and paint coatings to hold out better on steel. The paint works as a physical barrier against elements, particularly moisture. So, proper execution of surface preparation is very crucial.

For easier cleaning

Sandblasting is among the fastest ways to clean a steel surface. This process works like sanding, which removes a thin surface layer to eliminate dirt or contaminants. It is also easy to clean up after sandblasting since the surrounding areas are prepared beforehand to reduce the mess. It will be covered, so the blasted abrasive media will be gathered all at once after the sandblasting is done.

Unlike other surface preparation methods, a special vacuum gathers the blasted abrasive media after the job is done. Collecting the used blasting media allows you to save money by reusing them for your next project.

For excellent surface preparation

Aside from clearing the steel’s surface from existing paint, dust, dirt, or other contaminants, it also prepares the surface for applying coatings and sealants. Well-prepped steel makes the bond between the primer or coatings and sealants better. In addition, the surface preparation quality and the paint make the paint hold out longer.

With this said, a poorly prepared steel tank surface will cost you more. The reason is that dirt, grime, oil, and other contaminants might hinder the paint from adhering well. It could cause the paint finish to crack, buckle, or be orange peeled when this happens. Priming the steel tank surface should also be done correctly to avoid color variations from appearing after the paint dries.

It is a cost-effective approach

Sandblasting is among the most practical techniques to prepare metal surfaces. Aside from requiring an inexpensive abrasive medium, the blasted abrasive medium can also be collected and reused. The entire process takes much less time, too. It is also less laborious than other surface preparation methods. And this is one more way of keeping the cost down.

For faster project turnaround

It is not easy to clean steel or metal surfaces and huge steel tanks. Usually, these tasks take several hours or even days to finish. On the other hand, sandblasting makes the entire process faster and easier. It can even eliminate tough stains on the steel’s surface with ease.

It is environmentally friendly

Non-toxic blasting media is used for cleaning storage tanks. For this reason, it doesn’t harm the environment. At the same time, it won’t contaminate any part of the steel tank. Most environmentalists also like the idea of non-toxic blasting media not only because they are non-toxic but also because they are reusable.

Additionally, sandblasting steel tanks is better than other methods as they are allowed in areas with strict environmental regulations and rules. You can choose from various non-toxic abrasive media such as corn cobs, walnut shells, synthetic olivine, steel grit, etc.

Conclusion

Overall, sandblasting is an ideal option to remove the existing paint of a steel tank before applying a fresh coat of paint. If the steel tank is bare, a professional sandblasting contractor would still recommend blasting to condition the surface to make the primer or paint coatings adhere better. Sandblasting plays an essential role in paint application as it smoothens and cleans the surface from anything that could hinder the paint from holding out. It is also a cost-efficient and environmentally friendly option, ideal in areas with strict environmental regulations.