Archives: FAQ

How do I know if I want pellets or shaved block particle blasting systems?

The smaller shaved particles have an advantage when removing most paints or when cleaning equipment with intricate geometries or tiny openings such as microvents or screens. Pellets are more suitable when removing thick contaminants – as the larger mass behind each individual pellet is better able to penetrate the contaminant and create the shockwave necessary to disbond it.


What is the difference between a single-hose system and a dual-hose system?

With a dual-hose blast system, the dry ice travels in one hose and the high pressure air in another. They are not mixed until just before they exit the nozzle.

Single-hose blast systems mix the high pressure air and the dry ice from the time it leaves the machine. Single-hose systems can at times be the better choice when needing a more aggressive clean.


How loud is the system?

Noise is a function of air volume and air velocity. Within the nozzle, the stationary air is sheared by the high velocity air causing turbulence which creates noise. With appropriate hearing protection an operator can safely operate the system all day.


What are the primary safety issues when dry ice blasting?

One safety issue is to protect workers from moving parts. Cold Jet equipment is designed so that workers do not have access to moving parts without shutting down the system.

Another concern is the temperature of the dry ice. At -109°F (-78.3°C), we recommend wearing gloves when coming in contact with the dry ice. Eye and ear protection should be worn at all times.


Is it okay to blast in an enclosed area?

Yes, with proper ventilation. Because CO2 is 40% heavier than air, placement of exhaust vents at or near ground level is recommended when blasting in an enclosed area. In an open environment, existing ventilation is sufficient to prevent undue CO2 buildup. Even though CO2 is non-poisonous, it does displace oxygen in the atmosphere.


How much maintenance is required to maintain my system?

Very little. Cold Jet dry ice blast systems are designed to provide years of trouble-free use with a minimum amount of maintenance. Each system comes with an operator manual that outlines recommended routine maintenance – periodically checking filters and examining hoses for cracks are two examples.


Will I need an after-cooler?

fter-cooler may be useful if you are a contract cleaner or restoration contractor using a portable diesel compressor as your air source. An after-cooler provides assurance that the Cold Jet dry ice blaster will not blast any moisture from the diesel compressor being used. This is primarily dependant on humidity levels.

Your sales representative will be able to assess your needs and recommend the proper system configuration to ensure your productivity is maximized with moisture-free delivery of dry ice from your Cold Jet dry ice blast system.


How much dry ice should I expect to use?

The amount of dry ice needed to clean effectively can vary dramatically with each dry ice blast system and cleaning application. The average ice consumption for Cold Jet dry ice blast equipment is approximately 2 1/2 lbs (1.1 kg) per minute.


Is it safe to use dry ice blasting outside?

Yes. CO2 dry ice is safe to use in outdoor blasting applications. In fact, many organizations have given Cold Jet® their stamp of approval for the use of dry ice in outdoor blasting applications, including the California Environmental Protection Agency.


How portable are the dry ice blasting machines?

One pearson can easily roll any of the machines around the plant floor without any special equipment.