Laser rust and corrosion removal

Typical applications

Corrosion removal is one of the most frequently requested applications. The response depends on the corrosion type, the thickness of the corrosion layer, the underlying metal and the finish required afterwards.

• Light surface corrosion on steel plate and sections
• Established corrosion on fabricated assemblies
• Mill scale and heat scale on selected components
• Plant, machinery and maintenance parts
• Gates, railings, brackets and architectural metalwork
• Historic ironwork where a conservation approach is required

What cleaning can and cannot achieve

Laser cleaning removes corrosion products from the surface. It does not replace metal that has already been lost. Where corrosion has caused pitting, section loss or perforation, that damage remains visible after cleaning and the component may require repair, weld build-up or replacement.

This matters for inspection work. Removing corrosion products often reveals the true condition of the substrate, which is frequently the objective rather than a cosmetic finish.

Assessment and testing

Before production cleaning begins we assess the substrate, the extent of corrosion, the geometry of the component and the surface condition required afterwards. A representative test area establishes the cleaning response, the number of passes required and the achievable productivity.