Cleaning rubber molds used in the manufacture of tires, gaskets, o-rings, shoes and other products can be cut by 80 percent with dry ice blasting, according to IceTech.

Dry ice blasting is a non-abrasive, environmentally responsible cleaning method in which soft dry ice pellets are accelerated in a pressurized air stream and directed at a surface in order to clean it. The dry ice vaporizes on contact with the surface. The cleaning process does not use water or chemicals, or produce any secondary waste.

Moulds can be cleaned while hot and in-place.

When used in the tire manufacturing industry, for example, dry ice blasting is an efficient way to clean the extruder barrel, center core, screws, extrusion dies and other ancillary equipment. The manufacturer saves money due to reduced labor costs, decreased down time and reduced scrap.