Are you a business owner in Houston who needs sandblasting services? If so, make sure you’re hiring the best Houston commercial general contractor for the job. That means looking for a company that abides by the standards set by the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP).
AMPP is a leading global community dedicated to safeguarding the integrity of materials and assets. They develop and promote top-tier standards and certifications in fields such as sandblasting, enhancing operational safety, and ensuring the longevity of materials.
Because AMPP represents the commitment to maintaining a high level of quality in industries where material performance is crucial, you can be assured that any sandblasting service that aligns itself with AMPP standards is just as committed to providing quality work for you.
In this post, we’ll discuss the AMPP guidelines for sandblasting, as well as some common sandblasting applications in the Houston area. We are proud to operate in accordance with AMPP standards, so if you’re looking for sandblasting services, contact us today for a quote!
The Abrasive Blaster Certification (C7) from AMPP
Abrasive blasting is a crucial process in the surface preparation industry. Whether it involves cleaning, stripping, or smoothing rough surfaces, professionals must possess the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure that the work is done safely and effectively.
The Abrasive Blaster Certification (C7) from AMPP is designed to certify individuals who have attained the necessary expertise and experience in abrasive blasting. To obtain this certification, individuals must have at least 6 months of experience of hands-on learning in an abrasive blasting role. The certification program covers topics such as safety, surface preparation, electing and using abrasives, equipment operation and maintenance, and sandblasting techniques.
Sandblasting is an essential process used across many industries, and being certified by AMPP ensures that your commercial surface preparation project is being done by a professional who has the knowledge and expertise to do a top-notch job.
Standard Sandblasting Procedures
Sandblasting is a powerful technique that is commonly used to clean, strip, or polish surfaces. The process involves blasting abrasive materials at high velocities onto a surface using compressed air.
The equipment used in sandblasting, also known as abrasive blasting, varies based on the specific application and scale of the operation. The primary piece of equipment is the sandblasting unit, which consists of a blast pot containing the abrasive, a blasting hose with a nozzle at the end for directing the abrasive, and a compressor to provide the high-pressure air necessary for blasting. The blast pot can be of varying sizes, determined by the magnitude and nature of the job. Additionally, specific nozzles and abrasives are chosen based on the material being treated and the desired outcome.
AMPP standards require that all personnel have up-to-date training in standard operating procedures and safety practices. Before beginning sandblasting, the operator must follow the required initial setup and safety procedures. These procedures typically involve proper preparation of the space and equipment. The sandblasting process itself must also be carefully executed to achieve the desired results. Once the process is complete, they also need to follow guidelines for proper containment and disposal of hazardous materials. In addition,
Critical Safety Measures During Sandblasting
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is also a crucial part of the sandblasting process, given the inherent risks associated with it. Sandblasting operators must wear a blasting suit and gloves. The high pressure of the blast materials can cause cuts or abrasions if not correctly controlled or if operators are not adequately protected.
In addition, a blasting helmet is required to reduce the risk of respiratory hazards. The fine dust created during the sandblasting process can be harmful if inhaled, leading to long-term health issues like silicosis, a lung disease caused by the inhalation of crystalline silica dust. There are also potential risks to the eyes from high-speed particles, and to hearing from the high noise levels produced during the operation.
Common Sandblasting Applications
Essentially, any surface that needs to be stripped of unwanted coatings or altered in some way is a candidate for sandblasting. Sandblasting provides a quick, efficient means of stripping away any contaminations, thus ensuring smooth operation and reducing wear and tear.
Commercial: Sandblasting is commonly used in construction to clean building facades before repainting, to ensure the new exterior paint is applied consistently and adheres properly.
Industrial: Sandblasting is often the method of choice when it comes to the removal of old paint, rust, or other forms of corrosion from equipment such as valves and pipes. This technique proves particularly effective in reaching the nooks and crannies that are often inaccessible with traditional cleaning methods. For instance, in the oil and gas industry, valves and pipes are frequently subjected to harsh conditions that can lead to build-up of rust or old, flaking paint.
Manufacturing: Machinery parts often require frequent deep cleaning to maintain optimal function. Sandblasting these components ensures their longevity, performance, and safety.
Houston General Contractor – Commercial Sandblasting Services
Keeton Construction Services Construction provides high quality construction services. Our experienced sandblasting operators are committed to making sure each project meets quality control requirements while getting the work done on time.
From sandblasting to commercial painting, we provide a variety of services for your construction projects. Let Keeton Construction Services be your go-to Houston commercial general contractor; contact us for a quote today.