Shot peening is a necessary process for metal parts and equipment subject to stress and corrosion fatigue. As tiny shots of metal are blasted through a pressurized machine, they act as tiny peen hammers that go to work on surfaces and reformulate the surface integrity.

Consumers pretty much know whether or not they have a need for such services. Now comes the choice of buying shot peening equipment and doing the work or relying on the knowledge and experience of others. In matters of shot peening:

1. Purchase machines and equipment from established shot peening companies,

2. Know what to shop for in terms of shot peening accessories and blasting media and

3. Consider a shot peening service if unsure or unequipped for the process.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Shop for a quality shot peening machine

Shot peening companies typically provide peening services as well as shot peening machines for the do-it-yourself consumer. Whether the selected unit is new or used, it should be backed by a knowledgeable team that can provide specialized support and recommendations.

I recommend: View the selection at Engineered Abrasives. Their inventory of industrial shot peening equipment features blasting cabinets, pressure vessel systems and dust collectors. Along with shot peening, some units can be used with other abrasive media such as glass bead. For those new to the shot peening process, a breakdown of the method is offered. Blast Abrade, Incorporated offers a wide variety of new and used shot peening machines. Buyers have the option to view the industrial shot peening process via the live feed Blast Abrade webcam which offers demo feeds.

Accessorize shot peening equipment with proper parts and media

Different resurfacing jobs require different shot peening methods and blasting media. It is best to consult with manufacturers to find out which methods will work best and which media (glass shot, cut wire, steel, etc.) is the most promising for the job at hand.

I recommend: Industrial Metal Finishing, Inc. is a company offers various shot peening media, and is backed by a team of engineers to help customers select media for personal specifications. Sub-components, spare parts and blasting media are just a few things available at Innovative Peening Systems, Inc. In addition to shot peening supplies and machines, Innovative offers shot peening services and coating application.

Work smarter, not harder, with the help of shot peening services

Not everyone is looking for a hands-on approach to their metal resurfacing problems. In these instances, it is best to employ the help of a shot peening company to take care of the dirty work.

I recommend: The Aeronautical Service Co. LLC provides shot peening services to companies across the nation and overseas. Their specialty is forming personalized services for customers through creative problem solving. The Metal Improvement Company is a shot peening service that also offers a wealth of shot peening information on its website for engineers and metallurgists alike. Large equipment can be serviced using on-site shot peening services at the Metal Improvement Company.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  The shot peening process is one that requires the utmost in safety precautions. Always be sure to have the proper safety attire on hand before undertaking any blasting project.