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Yes, dry ice blasting does produce significant noise, similar to other compressed air tools, typically ranging from 80 to 100 decibels depending on the pressure settings and nozzle configuration used. This is comparable to a loud shop vacuum or pneumatic tools. Our technicians always wear hearing protection, and we recommend the same for anyone in the immediate work area. For indoor projects or areas near occupied spaces, we discuss noise considerations during planning and can schedule work during appropriate hours. The noise is primarily from the compressed air and does not include any impact noise since the dry ice pellets sublimate on contact rather than bouncing or creating debris. For residential projects in neighborhoods with noise ordinances, we ensure work is scheduled during permitted hours.

This is one of the key advantages of dry ice blasting: the dry ice pellets sublimate, meaning they convert directly from solid to gas upon impact with the surface. This sublimation is instant and complete, leaving behind only the contaminants that were removed from the surface. The CO2 gas harmlessly dissipates into the atmosphere. Since CO2 is heavier than air, adequate ventilation is important in enclosed spaces to prevent accumulation, which we always ensure is addressed. The only cleanup required is collecting the removed contaminants such as paint chips, grease, soot, mold, or whatever material was being cleaned away. This is a dramatic advantage over sandblasting or soda blasting, which leave behind large quantities of spent media mixed with contaminants that require disposal. Our process eliminates secondary waste entirely.

Dry ice blasting is an advanced cleaning technology that uses solid carbon dioxide (CO2) pellets accelerated by compressed air at supersonic speeds. When these pellets strike a surface, three things happen simultaneously: the kinetic energy dislodges contaminants, the extreme cold (-109°F/-78.5°C) causes thermal shock that breaks the bond between the contamination and the substrate, and the pellets sublimate instantly into gas, lifting contaminants away. Unlike sandblasting or other abrasive methods, dry ice blasting leaves no secondary waste because the CO2 simply evaporates into the atmosphere, leaving only the removed contaminants behind for easy cleanup.

Dry ice blasting offers numerous advantages over traditional cleaning methods like sandblasting, chemical stripping, or pressure washing. First, it is completely non-abrasive, meaning it will not damage delicate surfaces, remove base material, or create surface profiles that weaken parts. Second, it produces zero secondary waste since the dry ice sublimates on contact, eliminating the need to clean up blasting media. Third, it is environmentally friendly with no chemicals, no water, and no pollutants. Fourth, it reduces downtime significantly because equipment often does not need to be disassembled or moved, and there is no drying time required. Finally, it is safe for use around electrical components, food processing equipment, and sensitive machinery when properly applied.