In-depth survey report: evaluation of an automated abrasive blasting machine at Marystown Shipyard, Marystown, Newfoundland, Canada, report no. CT-183-22.
Abstract
This site visit was part of a project to determine the feasibility of using automated paint-removal technology on steel structures (ships, bridges, storage tanks, etc.). The major goal of the project was to determine the current status of the technology. This involved determining the number of prototypes currently available, the development stage of each prototype, determining on which steel structures each prototype can be used and the percentage of each type of structure on which the automated technology can be used, and a comparison of costs of the automated method with traditional methods of lead-based paint removal. The system evaluated at this site incorporated the Pittman Vacuum Blasting System (PVBS) Vacuum Abrasive Steel Cleaning and Reclamation System. This system included the blast head, a trailer housing the cleaning and reclamation system, an electric winch, and a hand-held controller.
