Dry ice cleaning — also known as dry ice blasting — is rapidly transforming how UK industries maintain machinery and production equipment. Unlike traditional pressure washing or chemical cleaning, this method uses solid CO₂ pellets that instantly sublimate (turn to gas), removing dirt and contaminants without water, abrasion, or residue.
How the Dry Ice Cleaning Process Works
Compressed Air Delivery – Dry ice pellets are accelerated through a high-pressure air stream.
Thermal Shock Effect – When the pellets hit the surface, they create a rapid temperature difference, loosening dirt, oil, and coatings.
Kinetic Energy – The pellets physically lift contaminants from the surface.
Sublimation – The pellets turn back into gas on impact, carrying debris away — with no secondary waste.
This unique 3-in-1 action means machinery can be cleaned in place — ideal for factory equipment, automotive parts, and medical or food production environments.
The Benefits of Dry Ice Cleaning
- Zero Chemicals or Water: No residue, runoff, or drying time.
- Non-Abrasive: Safe for metals, wiring, and sensitive machinery.
- Reduces Downtime: Machines can often stay in operation during cleaning.
- Eco-Friendly: Only CO₂ is used — no harsh detergents or solvents.
- Cost-Effective: Lower maintenance and disposal costs long term.
Industrial Applications
Dry ice blasting is versatile enough to clean a wide range of surfaces and components. It’s ideal for factory machinery dry ice cleaning UK-wide, where downtime and contamination are major concerns.
Typical applications include:
Factory and production line equipment – remove oil, grease, and carbon build-up.
Electrical panels and switchgear – non-conductive, moisture-free cleaning.
Conveyor systems and motors – clean without dismantling machinery.
Moulds, tools, and paint removal – gentle but effective surface treatment.
Food and pharmaceutical machinery – maintain hygiene without chemicals.
By using dry ice cleaning across these industries, businesses can extend equipment lifespan, improve safety, and reduce maintenance costs — all while supporting a cleaner, more sustainable operation.
Why It’s Replacing Traditional Cleaning
Unlike sandblasting or pressure washing, dry ice cleaning:
Doesn’t erode surfaces
Doesn’t create waste disposal problems
Doesn’t risk electrical faults or corrosion
That’s why manufacturers, engineers, and maintenance teams are switching to this faster, safer, and more sustainable solution.
If your business relies on clean, efficient machinery, our team can help.
We offer industrial and factory machinery dry ice cleaning UK-wide, combining precision technology with years of experience in sustainable maintenance.