Improving die cleaning while boosting productivity – a case study from the USA...

A leading US-based aluminium window and door manufacturer* was facing a familiar challenge; their dry blasting process for cleaning extrusion dies was labour-intensive, dusty, and inconsistent. With around 240 dies processed per day, even small inefficiencies had a big impact.

By installing a Vapormatt Cougar+ wet blasting machine, they’ve transformed the way dies are cleaned.

✅ More consistent and uniform cleaning
✅ Longer die life – no edge damage or burring
✅ Reduced polishing time
✅ Cleaner working environment – no dust
✅ Better nitride coating adhesion due to improved caustic removal
✅ Enhanced safety and reduced operator fatigue

Wet blasting eliminated the need to wait for dies to dry, reduced manual polishing, and even made identifying micro-cracks easier – leading to higher extrusion recoveries and fewer pulled dies.

*Installing the Cougar+ helped increase their competitive advantage to such an extent that we agreed to sign an NDA to conceal their identiy.

Learn more about the applications and advantages of wet blasting for aluminium extruders and read the full case study.