Surface Preparation

Surface Preparation

Our Objective

Surface preparation is a critical process in ensuring the adhesion and longevity of coatings applied to industrial surfaces. Proper preparation removes contaminants, rust, and existing coatings while creating a surface profile suitable for the new coating system.

Abrasive Blasting:

Utilizes compressed air to propel abrasive materials like steel grit, garnet, or aluminum oxide to clean and profile the surface. The most commonly known method of surface preparation is dry grit, abrasive blasting.

This is done by projecting small abrasive particles at a high velocity against the surface to be cleaned. This removes rust, mill scale and other surface contaminants. It also creates a profile on the surface, rough enough to provide proper adhesion for a coating. Harrison Muir owns all the necessary equipment needed to provide a safe and efficient project.

Shot Blasting:

Portable centrifugal shot blast machines use centrifugal force to propel abrasive (steel shot) against the surface. The self-contained equipment provides an environmentally friendly dust containment process. The unit recycles the abrasive, removing dust particles and any small abrasive materials, thus reducing the amount of residual waste.

Harrison Muir provides shot-blasting for removal of existing floor coating, surface preparation for new coating, blasting for concrete overlays, rite cure removal and preparation for water proofing.

Vacuum Blasting:

Vacuum blasting is a process of abrasive blasting and containing dust and other matter within the unit. Where surface preparation requires removal of existing coating, vacuum blasting is an option. Typically this process is used only where environmental containment is not economically viable.

Water Cleaning and Jetting:

Water Cleaning and Jetting is a process where water is propelled at a high velocity at a surface. This is done to remove surface contaminants, along with rust and mill scale The Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC) has standardized the requirements for different levels of cleanliness. Water Cleaning and Jetting eliminates requirement of environmental dust collection, however, containment of water is still necessary.

Dry Ice Blasting:

The process of Dry Ice Blasting is a method of cleaning, involving propelling solid carbon dioxide pellets at a surface. The impact of the dry ice pellets hitting the surface of the object delivers more heat to the top layer of dirt, than to the substrate below. This causes the surface contaminants to easily flake off.

Mechanical Surface Preparation:

For small or intricate areas, mechanical tools such as grinders, needle scalers, or rotary wire brushes are used to clean and roughen surfaces.

Chemical Cleaning:

When dealing with grease, oil, or contaminants that abrasive methods cannot effectively remove, solvents or alkaline cleaners are applied to ensure a clean surface.

Industry Standards

Surface Cleanliness Standards

Surface Cleanliness Standards: Preparation adheres to recognized industry standards, such as those outlined by:

  • SSPC (The Society for Protective Coatings): Designations such as SP 6 (Commercial Blast) or SP 10 (Near-White Blast).
  • NACE International: Surface cleanliness levels, typically NACE No. 2 or No. 3.
  • ISO Standards: ISO 8501-1 grades for visual cleanliness and surface preparation.

Surface Profile

Determined using Testex replica tape or a profilometer, ensuring the profile matches coating manufacturer specifications. Typical profiles range between 1.5 to 4.5 mils depending on the coating system and substrate.



Inspection & Quality Control

Surfaces are inspected post-preparation for cleanliness, profile depth, and presence of residual contaminants. Methods include visual inspection, salt contamination testing, and surface profile measurement.


Safety & Environmental Considerations

Dust collection systems and enclosures are used to minimize environmental impact. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory for workers. Compliance with environmental regulations (e.g., dust and waste management) is strictly observed.