It has been generally recognised that the best method of surface preparation in maintenance
situations allowed by either regulation or situation is either grit blasting or even UHP (ultra-high
pressure hydroblasting). Hand tool and power tool preparation has always been regarded as methods
which will afford poorer surface preparation standards and therefore reduced lifetime of the
maintenance coating. However, a new power tool equipment has been introduced which is portable
and achieves cleanliness and surface profile approaching that which is obtainable by blasting cleaning
equipment. This paper details this method of preparation and the performance comparison of various
standard maintenance products across various accelerated test methods.
Key Words: Maintenance, surface preparation, power tool, bristle blast