The balls' impact has a targeted effect on the surface layers.

Blasting with steel balls is a surface treatment method that changes and improves quality of the workpiece. The small steel balls are "shot" at the workpiece surface in compressed air or injector blasting systems. Depending on the application and desired result, treatment with steel balls can be assigned to one of the following areas:

• Cleaning blasting
• Forming blasting
• Blasting for surface improvement

Shot peening applies residual compressive stress to the blasted material. This helps improve the permanent strength of the material. Scientific examinations have shown that cracks that may result, e.g., from corrosion, do not appear in layers with residual compressive stress. Blasting workpieces with steel balls is mostly used in the aviation and aerospace industry, but also in engine and gear construction.

Inspection documents reliability of the procedure

The coverage inspection determines whether the blasted surface is sufficiently covered in "calottes“, i.e. spherical indentations. The quality of coverage is decisive for the success of blasting and the resulting component safety. The coverage is visually inspected using magnifying glasses or by application of fluorescent liquids and subsequent inspection under UV light. We at SIGG use our test lab to ensure that parts are truly reliably improved. When blasting sample parts, we determine the blasting method, steel ball size and processing intervals that supply the optimal result.

Blasting with steel balls improves the surface resistance of many parts. We will gladly inform you whether the procedure is suitable for your company's application as well! Call +49 7741 808 930 to reach us in person or email us at info(at)sigg-strahltechnik(dot)de to describe your project.