When a commercial renovation brought concrete, brick, timber, and metal together in a confined urban property, surface preparation had to be precise, controlled, and adaptable. Using the Quill Falcon Switch, wet and dry sandblasting prepared every surface efficiently while maintaining dust control, environmental compliance and keeping the programme on track.
Project overview
Renovating a period property in central London meant tackling a variety of surfaces, from concrete ceilings and exposed brickwork to timber and decorative metalwork. Each required careful blasting to prepare it for restoration, repair, or finishing, with no room for error.
The building’s central location, tight access, and proximity to neighbouring properties made dust control, environmental safety, and efficient logistics essential to keeping the project on track.
The challenge
The project presented a complex set of challenges. Multiple surface types, including concrete, brick, timber and metal, each required a meticulous blasting approach, while the building’s restricted access and tight working space limited how the equipment could be deployed. This is where the Switch came into its own.
Strict dust and environmental controls were essential to protect neighbouring areas, while the risk of flash rusting on the metal components needed careful management.
The on-site team also needed flexible, reliable equipment with a minimal site footprint and needed to be trained prior to use.
The solution
Choosing the right equipment
The Quill Falcon Switch blasting machine was selected for its ability to operate in both wet and dry blasting modes, allowing a single system to address all surface types on site.
To power the machine, an electric air compressor was used instead of a traditional diesel-powered unit. This approach delivered several key benefits:
- Zero on-site emissions, ideal for an enclosed, urban environment
- Reduced noise levels, minimising disturbance to neighbours
- Improved suitability for indoor operation
- Lower operational and maintenance requirements
Due to restricted access, the equipment was delivered and positioned within a tight internal space by specialist teams experienced in working within confined Central London sites. Careful planning ensured efficient setup without disruption to the wider renovation programme.
Wet blasting phase
Dust suppression was a crucial priority for preparing multiple surfaces safely and efficiently within this property.
The wet blasting function of the Quill Falcon Switch was used across:
- Concrete surfaces
- Brickwork
- Timber elements
Wet blasting significantly suppressed airborne dust, which improved operator safety, maintained cleanliness within the property and protected adjacent areas. This was particularly important in a densely populated urban setting where dust migration and clean-up time needed to be kept to a minimum.
Dry blasting phase
Once the wet blasting work was completed, the machine was quickly switched to dry blasting mode for all metal components, which included:
- Structural steel
- Metal fixtures and fittings
Dry blasting was essential to prevent moisture contact with the metal surfaces, eliminating the risk of flash rusting and allowing immediate progression to coating or finishing works.
The ability to change between wet and dry modes using a single machine reduced downtime and removed the need for additional equipment on site.
On-site training for safe and efficient operation
At the start of the project, the operators did not have prior experience with the Quill Falcon Switch blasting system. To bring the team up to speed, hands-on on-site training was provided, which covered:
- Safe operation of the machine
- Switching between wet and dry blasting modes
- Media selection and pressure control
- Best practices for different substrates
The hands-on training allowed operators to gain confidence quickly and apply their skills immediately. By the end of the project, the team had developed a high level of expertise, while making full use of the machine’s capabilities, all while keeping the workflow smooth and efficient.
Project success
Using a single, versatile blasting system, the team prepared concrete, brick, timber and metal surfaces with precision and efficiency. Wet blasting kept dust under control, protecting both the property and the operators, while dry blasting left metal surfaces clean and ready for immediate finishing, eliminating the risk of flash rust.
The electric air compressor reduced the project’s environmental footprint, and careful planning allowed the equipment to be installed and operated seamlessly within the tight space.
Following full training on site, the operators became confident, skilled users, which in turn ensured productivity with minimal downtime and reduced equipment requirements.
Project takeaways
The Quill Falcon Switch blasting machine, powered by an electric air compressor, delivered a versatile, low-impact solution for this complex Central London renovation. Its ability to handle concrete, brick, timber, and metal within a confined urban site ensured the project could progress efficiently without compromise.
Combined with specialist logistical support and hands-on operator training, the system provided high-quality surface preparation while maintaining safety, minimising downtime, and keeping the renovation programme on track.
Want to see how the Quill Falcon Switch can deliver efficient, dust-controlled surface preparation for your next project? Get in touch with our team.