GRIT-BLAST AND ALUMINIZE (GB&A)“Grit-Blast and Aluminize” (aka GB&A)  is a two-step process designed to remove rust and scale on the interior of water-cooled wire drawing blocks and capstans, followed by a coating of aluminum to minimize future corrosion build up, and promote better block cooling.

 

In the before picture (right), the 20” Vaughn Intermediate water-cooled block has a significant build up of rust and scale.  This build-up can cause poor water circulation, and results in block overheating.  This scenario can lead to:

Ř      Reduced production speeds

Ř      Wire climbing issues

Ř      Wire marking

Ř      Possible die wear

Untreated - Can result in leakage and ultimately block replacement.

 
Step No. 1:  The block interior is grit-blasted to clean and remove rust and scale.  Step No. 2:  the block interior is sprayed with a .020” aluminum coating, which will facilitate heat transfer from the wire to the water.  The control of the wire temperature will maximize production. (See after photo left and below).

The benefits of GB&A include maximized production, and increased block life.

 

The benefits to the modern style two-piece, narrow gap cooled blocks (ie. Morgan-Koch, Frigerio, etc) are even more substantial for maintaining efficient and quality production.