Abrasive blast cleaning is a surface preparation technique used to clean, smooth, or roughen a surface by forcibly propelling a stream of abrasive material (such as sand, steel grit, or garnet) against it under high pressure. This process is commonly used in painting and coating applications to remove old paint, rust, scale, and other contaminants from surfaces—typically metal, concrete, or masonry—before applying a new coating or finish.
In Australia, abrasive blast cleaning is often performed in accordance with standards such as AS 1627.4 – Metal finishing – Preparation and pretreatment of surfaces – Abrasive blast cleaning, which outlines the procedures and cleanliness grades required for different coating systems.
This method is essential for ensuring proper adhesion of paints and coatings, thereby improving durability and performance.