LaserClean
An Interview with Ed Gledhill, President of LaserClean
How did you come up with the idea for LaserClean?
I have owned and operated a pressure washing company for several years and as a result of the continuous vibration I developed carpal tunnel syndrome in both hands and had to have surgery. I have been looking for several years for an exciting opportunity that meets some specific criteria, which the laser does.
It’s not unlike what I did pressure washing. There are very specific skills you must develop. I am excited by immediate extraordinary results. I also like solving tough challenges for customers and really enjoy seeing them happy at the outcome. So after an extensive investigation I took the plunge and started the process and created LaserClean Canadas first laser cleaning service.
What kind of surfaces can LaserClean clean?
The laser has been used on various types of metal and machinery, but it’s not limited to that. It removes paint, and degreases surfaces; I also use it on natural stone and masonry work. I have used it on wood and am in the process of testing it on plastic and fibreglass.
How does LaserClean work?
When using the laser on a sub straight, metal for example. The laser excites the molecules of the contamination your trying to remove using a beam of energized light. The molecules speed up and crimp off leaving minimal to no secondary waste. The term is called ablation. This is part of the beauty of the process. Secondary waste is a big concern when using typical methods like sand blasting or chemicals. The any waste from a laser is vacuumed up and contained immediately. Another huge benefit is that the laser is environmentally friendly
Do you need safety equipment?
Yes the proper laser glasses must be worn at all times. The light damage can cause permanent injury to your vision. The laser beam reflects off of surfaces and is on the infrared scale so it’s invisible to the naked eye. When you see the beam, what you’re seeing is the contamination caught in the beam. Lasers are very safe to use, but like any tool they can also pose specific hazards.
Do you need a well ventilated area?
Ventilation is a factor as with paint removal and other contaminates they create fumes and or gasses so all laser technicians where a personal respiration device. As well I have a ventilator in the shop which we use to expel the fumes.
Is LaserClean environmentally friendly?
Laser cleaning is the most environmentally friendly option any where as it uses light, not a cleaning media this is another factor that greatly influenced my decision to purchase the laser and offer it as a service.
Any time a media is introduced there is secondary waste and typically a high level of concern from clients.
Integrity of their tool or equipment is paramount, while, Blast media cuts a micro layer off to remove the contamination. These tools are made to very exact specifications so if the tool changes it impacts and quality controls the client has in place.
When dealing with tools and items of high value your concern is to not remove a micro layer, a laser does not cut or polish
Can anyone use LaserClean?
Yes LaserClean is open to the public, but our clientele is typically industrial/manufacturing, historical restoration.
How would a company or individual get a hold of you?
LaserClean has a Facebook page LaserClean all one word, we are also on Linkedin, Youtube, Google and our website is www.LaserClean.ca we have a phone…lol can never hear it as we are generally working away but people can call us at 905-367-9987 or email me directly Ed@LaserClean.ca
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