My Account
As one of the largest powder coating companies in central NSW, this client’s high standard powder coating finish ensures that fabricated steel products can withstand years of outdoor exposure and usage. They offer abrasive blasting, zinc powder priming and powder coating services.
With the launch of BlastOne’s new SnakeBite nozzle, a large powder coating company wanted to test its efficiency. Together, we hosted a trial comparing a #7 BlastOne Ultra Tuff nozzle to the new SnakeBite Strike #10 nozzle. The trials focused on production rate and noise level. Additionally, abrasive consumption rates were also calculated to showcase overall cost.
OBJECTIVES
Project objectives:
Minimize overall dB levels
Achieve specified surface cleanliness and roughness standards
Generate considerable savings in production costs
Increase production capacity
Reduce abrasive consumption
RESULTS
BlastOne and the powder coating company conducted a study to determine whether the SnakeBite would reduce blasting noise without reducing productivity. Blasting a bin with large sides, no coating, here is how the #7 Ultra Tuff compared to the SnakeBite Strike:
Test Results
| Nozzle | Nozzle Pressure | Test Area | Blast Time | Blasting Speed | Sound Reading |
| #7 Ultra Tuff* | 115 psi | 1 m2 | 65 s | 55 m2/hr | 106 dBA |
| SnakeBite Strike | 102 psi | 1 m2 | 43 s | 83 m2/hr | 98 dBA |
*The Ultra Tuff Nozzle was worn close to a #8 nozzle
(Equipment used: 6001b Clemco Pressure Release Blast Pot, 390 cfm Diesel Compressor, No. 6 Blast Nozzle at 105psi at the nozzle)
Unfortunately, at the time, no sound readings were taken from further away, outside of the blast room. The difference in noise is even more obvious when you move further away.
Using the True Cost Abrasive Blasting Formula, we calculated the amount of abrasive used per square metre by each nozzle.
| Nozzle | Consumption Rate | Abrasive Purchase Cost Delivered | Abrasive Disposal Cost | Labor and Equipment Cost | Production Rate | Blasting Costs |
| #7 Ultra Tuff | .48 t/hr | $695/t | $50/t | $150/hr | 55 m2/hr | $9.23 per m2 |
| SnakeBite Strike | .48 t/hr | $695/t | $50/t | $150/hr | 88 m2/hr | $5.77 per m2 |
CONCLUSION
Our estimates show that the SnakeBite Strike is not only quieter than the #7 Ultra but it’s high productivity results in 37% less abrasive used per square metre. Over 1000 square metres, that is $3,460 back in your pocket! Almost covering the cost of the initial investment.
Blasting speed increased by 51% which is more than a day’s extra blasting each week.
Sound level was almost halved, which improved the surrounding environment for nearby workers and prevented disrupting workflows. While the SnakeBite Strike was in action, the noise was significantly reduced and a normal conversation (80dBA) could happen during blasting.
The SnakeBite Strike achieves over 50% more production than high performance #8 nozzles. The only #10 nozzle in the market that can be used for hand-held blasting for extended periods of time.
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