Buyer’s Guide to Dry Ice Blasting Machines
In today’s world, businesses need cleaning solutions that are efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective. Dry ice blasting ticks all three boxes — but with different machine types available, how do you choose the right one?
This guide walks you through the key factors to consider before buying, compares pre-made dry ice pellets vs. L2P (Liquid-to-Pellet) technology, and highlights the importance of maintenance and support in getting the best from your investment.
1. Your Industry and Applications
Surface sensitivity — Dry ice blasting is non-abrasive, making it safer for delicate equipment, electronics, or precision tooling.
Contaminant types — Grease, oils, carbon, adhesives, inks or food residues all require different nozzles and setups.
Frequency and scale — High-volume production sites benefit from on-demand pellet production and machines built for continuous use.
2. Dry Ice Supply: Pellets vs. L2P
A big decision is whether to use pre-made pellets or invest in L2P technology.
Pre-Made Pellets
✅ Readily available and simple to start with
❌ Ongoing purchase and delivery costs
❌ Sublimation losses if pellets aren’t used quickly
L2P Technology
✅ Produces pellets on-demand from liquid CO₂
✅ Reduces waste and improves efficiency
✅ Cuts long-term operational costs
❌ Requires a steady liquid CO₂ supply
For frequent cleaning, L2P often delivers the best ROI.
3. Equipment Quality and Reliability
Build quality — Invest in robust, long-lasting machines with fewer breakdowns.
Brand reputation — Work with suppliers who understand your industry and provide reliable service.
Ease of use — Look for intuitive controls, clear displays, and quick-change nozzles.
4. Maintenance and Servicing
Regular inspections of hoses, seals and filters
Periodic lubrication and cleaning to prevent blockages
Careful nozzle management to maintain performance
Access to training, after-sales support and service contracts
A well-serviced machine lasts longer and reduces costly downtime.
5. Operational Costs and ROI
Initial vs ongoing costs — Beyond the purchase price, consider pellets, liquid CO₂, nozzles and servicing.
Efficiency savings — Faster cleaning frees up labour and reduces downtime.
Eco benefits — No chemicals, no secondary waste, better for compliance and sustainability.
6. Scalability and Future-Proofing
Choose machines that can grow with your business:
Modular upgrades (larger nozzles, extensions, automation compatibility)
Flexible configurations for changing production needs
7. Safety Features
Ergonomic blast guns and safety switches
Non-toxic, non-abrasive cleaning process
Cleaner, safer working environment with no secondary waste
8. Training and Support
Comprehensive operator training for safety and efficiency
Reliable technical support, especially for advanced L2P systems
Access to spare parts and servicing when you need it
Dry Ice Pellets vs. L2P: At a Glance
Pre-Made Pellets
✅ Simple to get started
❌ Continuous cost, delivery logistics, and sublimation waste
L2P Technology
✅ On-demand pellet production
✅ Reduced waste and long-term cost savings
❌ Requires liquid CO₂ supply
What Is Dry Ice Blasting?
Dry ice blasting uses solid CO₂ particles accelerated by compressed air to clean surfaces. The particles lift away contaminants without damaging the base material. It’s eco-friendly, non-abrasive, chemical-free, and produces no secondary waste.
Industries that benefit include manufacturing, automotive, food & beverage, mould cleaning, aerospace, and electronics.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right dry ice blasting machine means weighing your applications, budget, pellet supply, and maintenance needs. For some, pre-made pellets will provide flexibility. For others, L2P technology delivers the efficiency, sustainability, and long-term cost savings that make it the smarter investment.
👉 Need expert advice? Contact CoolBlast today to discuss your applications, arrange a demo, or get a personalised quote.
