How to Remove Porcelain Enamel
Most major appliances, such as ovens, water heaters, washers, and dryers, have a porcelain enamel finish that lasts long without rusting or scratching like painted steel. Tunnels, subway stations, signs, and restroom dividers are often lined with porcelain enamel, too. You will also find porcelain enamel in most steel or cast iron sanitary sinks, bathrooms, and bathtubs. Porcelain wipes clean in seconds and will not scorch or discolor in high-temperature environments.
Abrasive blasting is a primary industrial method for removing porcelain enamel from surfaces by using media such as sand, slag, metallic shot, and synthetic abrasives. Porcelain enamel is extremely hard and requires a safe, effective method to remove it to avoid damaging the underlying material or creating safety hazards. EpiX EP is ideal for removing this coating because of its physical characteristics and performance capabilities.
Why Remove Porcelain Enamel? Common Reasons and Applications
One common reason for removing it is potential lead hazards in old porcelain enamel, especially for pre-1980s fixtures. Some old tubs have glazes that contain lead, which can leach into bathwater or rub off on washcloths and toys. Sometimes, lead can come from old plumbing in the home or worn surfaces on lead-glazed porcelain sinks.
When removing enamel from clawfoot tubs and stoves, it’s important to select the right media for efficiency, dust control, and substrate protection.
EpiX EP: The Safe and Effective Solution for Porcelain Enamel Removal
Abrasive blasting is the industry standard for removing hard, glass-like coatings like porcelain enamel, but the choice of abrasive is critical for efficiency, safety, and minimal substrate damage. Modern synthetic abrasives like EpiX superoxalloy are superior to traditional sand or slag for:
- Lower dust generation for improved visibility and safety.
- Faster removal rates.
- Less risk of embedding contaminants in the substrate.
- Environmental and worker safety compliance.
EpiX EP is a next-generation, biosoluble, low-dust abrasive engineered for tough coatings like porcelain enamel. It offers the same or better removal rates as aluminum oxide or silicon carbide, but with less dust and reduced risk of substrate damage due to uniform particle size and strength. EpiX EP is safer for operators and the environment and is ideal for both open and closed blasting systems.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Remove Porcelain Enamel With EpiX EP
Removing porcelain enamel from surfaces requires efficiency and care to avoid damaging the underlying material.
Step 1: Safety First
- Always wear appropriate PPE, such as a NIOSH-approved forced air hood or helmet, eye protection, gloves, and coveralls.
- Ensure proper ventilation or use a closed blasting system to minimize airborne dust.
- If working on older fixtures, test for lead-based coatings and follow all hazardous waste protocols.
Step 2: Surface Prep
- Clean the workpiece to remove dust, oils, and contaminants so the abrasive can contact the enamel directly for efficient removal.
- Mask off any areas that don’t need blasting.
Step 3: Blasting With EpiX EP
Load EpiX EP into your blasting pot. For most porcelain enamel removal processes, a medium to high pressure (100–110 psi) is effective, but always start at the lowest pressure that achieves results while protecting the substrate.
Step 4: Post-Removal Cleaning and Inspection
- After blasting, thoroughly vacuum or wipe down the surface to remove residual abrasive and dust.
- Inspect the substrate for any remaining enamel or unintended damage.
EpiX EP ensures a clean, ready-to-coat surface with minimal risk of embedment or contamination.
Step 5: Waste Management
Collect spent abrasives and remove enamel for proper disposal, especially if lead or other hazardous materials are present. EpiX EP is biosoluble in human lungs, and this makes it a safer choice for workers and the environment.
Alternative Methods for Porcelain Enamel Removal
Although there are manual alternatives, abrasive blasting is the only practical method for large-scale or industrial removal of porcelain enamel. Traditional sandblasting methods, however, are labor-intensive and risk damaging the substrate. EpiX EP is a practical, safer alternative to traditional abrasives and is easy on the environment and workers’ health.
Remove Porcelain Enamel With EpiX EP
EpiX EP is engineered to meet the highest standards for large-scale industrial coating removal. It aligns with recommendations for dust control, operator safety, and environmental responsibility, while delivering speed and surface quality. Contact the experts at 10X Engineering Materials for technical support or to get help on determining how to tackle your project.
