In the world of aviation, the integrity of every component is critical—especially aircraft wheels. When it comes to Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) for crack detection, wet blasting is proving to be the cleaning process of chose. Here’s why:
✅ Enhanced surface visibility - Wet blasting removes grease, dirt, oils and all other contaminants to ensure a clean, smooth surface that makes cracks and defects more visible during inspection.
✅ Gentle on materials - Unlike dry blasting, wet blasting is much gentler on the wheel surfaces, reducing the risk of introducing micro-cracks or surface damage that could compromise wheel integrity.
✅ Heat reduction - The water in the wet blast process cools the surface during the blasting process, preventing thermal stress and distortion — key for maintaining the strength and overall safety of the wheel.
✅ Improved crack detection - By removing contaminants and corrosion, wet blasting creates a consistent surface profile, making NDT methods like Fluorescent Penetrant Inspection (FPI) even more effective.
✅ Eco-friendly and safe - With reduced airborne dust and cleaner results, wet blasting offers a safer, environmentally friendly option for operators, helping keep workspaces cleaner and reducing exposure to harmful particles.
✅ Consistency and reliability - Wet blasting ensures uniform cleaning across every inch of the wheel, leading to more reproducible NDT results and fewer false negatives.
In an industry where safety and precision are paramount, wet blasting offers a better way to ensure aircraft wheels are free from hidden defects. It's not just about cleaning; it's about smart inspection.
Learn more about applications and benefits of wet blasting for MRO operations.
