Common Myths About Dry Ice Blasting in Industrial Cleaning

Dry ice blasting has become a popular cleaning method across many industries, but misconceptions about this technology often prevent businesses from taking advantage of its benefits. Understanding the facts behind common myths helps facility managers make informed decisions about their cleaning processes. Let’s examine what’s true and what’s simply fiction when it comes to this innovative cleaning solution.

What Is Dry Ice Blasting?

Dry ice blasting uses solid carbon dioxide pellets accelerated through compressed air to remove contaminants from surfaces. Unlike traditional methods that rely on harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, dry ice blasting transforms directly from solid to gas without leaving any liquid residue. This unique property makes it fundamentally different from sandblasting, power washing, or chemical cleaning.

Myth: Dry Ice Blasting Damages Sensitive Equipment

Many people assume that blasting anything at high speed will cause surface damage, but this concern doesn’t apply to dry ice cleaning. The pellets are non-abrasive and softer than most industrial surfaces, so they won’t scratch, pit, or wear down equipment. In fact, dry ice blasting is gentle enough to clean sensitive electrical components and intricate machinery. The process removes contaminants like grease, paint, and rust without harming the underlying material.

Myth: It’s Too Expensive for Regular Maintenance

Another widespread belief is that dry ice blasting costs too much for routine cleaning tasks. While the initial investment might seem higher than traditional methods, the total cost analysis tells a different story. This technology eliminates expenses associated with chemical disposal, reduces downtime since equipment doesn’t need to cool down before cleaning, and prevents surface damage that leads to costly repairs. There’s also no secondary waste to dispose of, as the dry ice simply evaporates into the atmosphere. When businesses calculate the true cost, including labor, materials, disposal fees, and equipment longevity, dry ice blasting is often more economical than alternatives. 

Myth: The Process Creates Harmful Conditions

Some facility managers worry that dry ice blasting poses safety risks or creates hazardous working conditions. While proper ventilation is necessary, dry ice blasting is actually one of the safest cleaning methods available. It produces no secondary waste, uses no toxic chemicals, and doesn’t create dust clouds like sandblasting. The carbon dioxide used is food-grade and non-toxic, and workers don’t face exposure to harsh solvents or the risk of chemical burns. With appropriate training and standard safety protocols, operators can perform this cleaning method safely and efficiently in various environments.

Myth: Dry Ice Blasting Takes Too Long

Some managers avoid dry ice blasting because they think it’s slower than pressure washing or chemical treatments. Traditional methods need time for equipment to cool, chemicals to soak, and surfaces to dry before work resumes. Dry ice blasting skips all that because it works on warm equipment and leaves nothing behind, turning multi-day jobs into same-day completions.

Making the Right Choice for Your Facility

method delivers faster cleaning cycles that keep production schedules on track, while eliminating the recurring costs of chemical purchases and hazardous waste disposal. Equipment also performs better over time because contaminants disappear without the surface damage that comes from abrasive cleaning methods. nexAir’s KnowHow™ helps facilities get started with dry ice blasting, so you can Forge Forward with confidence.