IST (Kresco) for Metal Fabrication
Metal fabrication shops use blast rooms and abrasive blast booths to prepare weldments, frames, plate, brackets and structural assemblies before coating or assembly. IST (Kresco) equipment planning should account for part handling, abrasive recovery, dust collection, compressed air demand, lighting, operator access and the route from cutting or welding into finishing.
Discuss your installationBrand names identify the equipment discussed. Discuss your equipment model and installation scope with Double D; manufacturer authorization is not implied.
Part Flow From Fabrication
Blast equipment should fit the way parts already move through the plant. Forklift lanes, crane coverage, cart staging and door openings all affect where the booth or room can sit without adding extra handling between weld, prep, blast and coating.
Abrasive Recovery Layout
Media reclaim equipment changes how operators clean the floor and how abrasive returns to the blast system. Slab conditions, pit locations, screw conveyor paths, hopper access and service clearance should be reviewed before anchors or floor openings are finalized.
Dust Collection And Exhaust Routing
Abrasive blasting produces heavy dust loads that need controlled capture and a clear route to the collector. Duct runs, fan location, discharge points and make-up air should be coordinated so nearby welding, grinding and coating areas are not fighting the same air.
Utilities Around The Blast Area
Compressed air, electrical service, lighting, controls and grounding points need planned routes that stay serviceable after panels, reclaim equipment and ductwork are in place. Utility routing should also leave room for filter changes, blast hose movement and daily cleanup.
Site Details To Gather
Before a site visit, collect maximum part dimensions, approximate part weights, current material handling methods, preferred equipment location, ceiling height, door sizes, available compressed air, electrical information and photos of adjacent production areas.
Frequently asked questions
What should a metal fabrication shop review before installing IST (Kresco) blast equipment?
Review the largest workpieces, handling equipment, booth location, dust collector location, compressed air capacity, electrical service, ceiling height and the path parts will take before and after blasting.
How does media reclaim affect the installation plan?
Media reclaim can affect floor openings, equipment elevation, cleanup routines, conveyor routes and service access. It should be included early in layout discussions, not added after the booth footprint is fixed.
Why is make-up air important near a blast room?
Exhaust and dust collection remove air from the work area. Replacement air needs to be considered so doors, adjacent booths and plant ventilation are not pulled out of balance.
What matters when relocating an abrasive blast booth?
Relocation planning should include panel condition, collector placement, duct routes, reclaim components, compressed air lines, electrical connections, rigging access and any floor changes needed at the new location.
What photos help during an initial review?
Useful photos show the proposed location, nearby production equipment, ceiling structure, doors, utilities, collector area, floor condition and the normal route used to move fabricated parts.