Applications

Proven Effectiveness Across Military Branches Around The World

The PlasmaBlast surface preparation systems quickly and efficiently chemically etch away coatings and sealants, remove contaminants, and prepare surfaces for adhesion, all without damaging the substrate. This innovative, one-of-a-kind technology is utilized by DOD, foreign militaries, and Fortune 100 companies around the world. The PlasmaBlast system has proven indispensable in applications including regular maintenance of equipment and assets in bases, depots, and shipyards, and in forward deployed field repairs in contested environments.

PlasmaBlast Is A Superior Alternative To Existing Surface Treatment Tools

The PlasmaBlast surface preparation system provides efficient, safe removal of paint, sealants, adhesives, and other coatings without the use of blast media, excessive heat, or environmentally harmful chemicals. The system uses non-thermal plasma to effectively remove coatings from metal structures at twice the rate of traditional mechanical methods while also greatly reducing significant operator health concerns such as vibrational impact and noise. The treated surface is completely cleaned of any organic contaminants which improves the bond between the substrate and the new coating, extending the coating life and improving corrosion protection.

Bolts, retaining rings, threaded plugs, and other fasteners can often be overcoated with many layers of paint or contaminated with grease, oil, and dirt. This makes removal often difficult and can result in stripped threads, stuck retaining rings, or stripped nuts. The PlasmaBlast system makes fastener removal easy by cleaning threads and hard to reach areas of all coatings and contaminants quickly and effectively without any thread damage.

Achieving quality welds requires starting with a surface free of coatings or contaminants. There is often a strip back specification that must be achieved before welding and the PlasmaBlast system makes this task simple and quick. All contaminants and organic material are etched away from the surface, leaving an ultra-clean surface ready for welding. This is especially useful for metal delivered for final installation and welding that has a corrosion inhibitor coating applied from the foundry, such as Cosmoline, which must be removed before welding.

Conducting weld inspection on load bearing structures and equipment is a required periodic maintenance task across military and commercial markets. Effective weld inspection often requires complete removal of any coatings in order to allow the non-destructive testing equipment to operate properly. The removal process itself cannot harm the weld joint and must remove all contaminants from the surface and any cracks or crevices that exist. The plasma from the PlasmaBlast system flows like water across surfaces and reaches into cracks and narrow openings to completely remove the coating, making the non-destructive test more accurate by enabling the die penetrant to reveal weld defects.

The PlasmaBlast system is highly effective for corrosion prevention in military applications due to its advanced surface modification capabilities. By using plasma to functionalize the material surface, it enhances the adhesion properties and increases the lifetime of the coating system. This method is far superior to traditional coatings or treatments, as it ensures a uniform, adherent, and durable barrier against corrosive elements without altering the bulk properties of the material. Additionally, the plasma process is clean and environmentally friendly, eliminating the need for hazardous chemical usage. Its efficiency and effectiveness in extending the lifespan of critical military equipment make it an indispensable tool for maintaining operational readiness and reducing long-term maintenance costs.

Salt Fog Testing ASTM B117 1500 hours

Polished Metal Samples

The PlasmaBlast PB7000-M plasma system effectively reveals battle damage on assets in forward-deployed theaters. Additionally, unlike traditional mechanical methods, which can further harm damaged materials during inspection, the plasma system provides a means of assessing various materials without risking additional damage. This technology allows for rapid, on-site evaluation of equipment integrity and safety, crucial for timely and informed decision-making in combat scenarios. Additionally, the PB7000-M’s ability to operate efficiently under various environmental conditions makes it particularly suitable for military use in diverse and challenging settings. Its speed and accuracy ensure that repairs and decisions can be expedited, enhancing operational readiness and safety in high-stakes environments.

The PlasmaBlast system can target contaminants with high precision without damaging the underlying material. This is crucial for military equipment, where maintaining the integrity of materials is often as important as the cleaning process itself. Unlike mechanical scrubbing, which can be abrasive, or chemical solvents, which may leave residues or require thorough rinsing, plasma cleaning provides a clean finish without physical or chemical stress to the surface.

Proven Success Treating a Wide Variety of Coatings, Sealants, and Substrates

Coatings Removed

  • Acrylics
  • Alkyds
  • Latex
  • Epoxies
  • Polyurethanes
  • Polyesters
  • Powder Coats
  • Silicone / Polysiloxanes
  • Coal-Tar Epoxy
  • Ultra High Solid Coatings

Sealants Removed

  • Elastomeric
  • Caulking
  • Polysulfide
  • Polyether
  • Butyls
  • Acrylics
  • Rubber
  • Silicones
  • Polyurethane

Substrates Treated

  • Aluminum Alloys
  • Magnesium Alloys
  • Steel Alloys
  • Titanium Alloys
  • Plastics
  • Carbon Fiber
  • GRP/Fiberglass
  • Composites
  • Concrete
  • Ceramics

Don’t see your coating, sealant, or substrate?

We are ready to discuss your application and evaluate a sample to confirm our effectiveness.