A vapour blasting machine works by suspending fine abrasive media in water and driving that slurry at a component with compressed air. The water film around each abrasive particle is what does the work - cushioning the impact so the part is cleaned and finished without the grit embedding itself in the surface, or dust filling the workshop. It's the same process most of the world now searches for as "vapor blasting," using the American spelling; "vapour blasting" remains the preferred spelling across the UK, Ireland, Australia and much of the Commonwealth.
What to expect from a vapour blasting machine
- A finish achieved in one pass - no separate cleaning, degreasing and finishing steps.
- No grit left in the substrate, because impact is cushioned rather than direct.
- No dust extraction requirement, and none of the compliance overhead that comes with it.
- Consistent results, provided the machine holds slurry concentration and pressure within tolerance across the full cycle — the difference between an engineered machine and a basic one.
Built in the UK, by the company that invented the process
Vapormatt has designed and manufactured vapour blasting machines in the UK since Norman Ashworth developed the process there in the late 1940s. Every machine, from entry-level manual units to fully automated production systems, is built to the same underlying engineering standard.
- Automatic vapour blasting machines - for high-volume, unattended production
- Manual vapour blasting machines - for lower volumes and variable part geometry
Where vapour blasting machines are specified
Aerospace MRO and coating removal, cutting tool manufacture, medical and dental implant finishing, aluminium extrusion, and general industrial cleaning and deburring.
FAQs
What is a vapour blasting machine?
A vapour blasting machine mixes water and abrasive into a slurry, then projects it at a component with compressed air to clean, degrease and finish the surface in a single pass, without dust or embedded grit.
Is "vapour blasting machine" the same as "vapor blasting machine"?
Yes - the only difference is spelling. "Vapour" is the standard British and Commonwealth spelling; "vapor" is the American spelling. Both describe exactly the same machine and process.
Where are Vapormatt's vapour blasting machines made?
At Vapormatt's site in Bridgwater, Somerset, UK - where Norman Ashworth invented the process in the late 1940s and where the fourth generation of his family still runs the company today.
Can I see a vapour blasting machine in operation before I buy?
Yes. As part of the buying process, Vapormatt typically runs sample processing at its R&D facility or demonstration centre so you can see results on your own components before committing.