A compact IBIX 25 H2O abrasive blast machine from Hodge Clemco is providing a leading ship restorer with convenient, versatile surface preparation and cleaning capabilities and avoiding the need to hire subcontractors.
Based in the historic Gloucester Docks, T Nielsen & Company specialises in repairing, restoring and building traditional vessels from small boats to multi-masted ocean-going ships, which requires flexible working practices and versatile equipment.
The work is carried out in two dry docks and large covered workshops.
Projects typically involve replacing corroded sections of steel hulls and cleaning and preparing components and surfaces for painting. In order to achieve maximum flexibility for this work and avoid the need for external subcontractors, the company decided to invest in the IBIX blast machine, which is particularly suited to work on delicate surfaces.
One of the major projects being undertaken currently is the restoration of the Massey Shaw, a former London Fire Brigade fireboat built in 1935 that took part in the 1940 Dunkirk evacuation. The project is partly funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Because of its compact size and light weight, the IBIX machine can be easily moved into confined spaces and on to work platforms by a single operator. Air pressure can be adjusted from 0.2 to 7 bar to control abrasive output, and the nozzle is a comfortable pistol-style component with safety button.
A wide variety of abrasives can be used, and the IBIX H2O model at T Nielsen and Co also allows low-pressure wet-blasting, which is ideal for work on particularly delicate surfaces and minimises dust.
August 2012
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