Optimizing Performance and Efficiency: GMA delivers cost savings to Japan’s Maritime Contractors

The GMA team is proud to have partnered with IM Shot in Komatsu, a leading contractor and advocate of best-practice abrasive blasting in Japan.

With more than 30 years of experience working in Japan, GMA has built strong relationships and a reputation for delivering premium abrasive solutions that meet the highest standards of safety and performance.

Many industries in Japan still rely on slag abrasives for their surface preparation needs.  As the global market and Japan enter a new era of maintenance practices, the need for safer, sustainable solutions is greater than ever. The abrasive blasting industry is evolving—embracing advanced technologies, prioritizing sustainability, and striving for greater efficiency. GMA  supports this transformation by providing high-performance abrasives that align with these goals.

During a recent GMA ‘tech day’, we showcased our latest innovations to industry professionals, demonstrating how GMA solutions deliver superior blasting performance while reducing environmental impact, improving workplace safety and producing high-quality surfaces for maximum coating life. Our engineered abrasive blends optimize performance, reduce consumption, and ensure consistent results, reinforcing our commitment to quality and innovation.

The tech day provided the opportunity for the Japanese contractors to not only hear about the benefits of GMA, but to also see them. The blasting trials performed on locally used marine coating systems showed that compared to copper slag, GMA delivered a 20% increase in blasting speed, using 41% less abrasive, achieving total cost reductions of 24-30% while improving surface cleanliness.

“Across Japan, customers are actively seeking ways to achieve even greater efficiencies,” said Yasuo Igarashi, Business Development Manager, GMA Northeast Asia.

“GMA supports this goal by offering five specialized abrasive products, giving customers the flexibility to choose the right solution for their application. This range helps optimize blasting performance, reduce waste, and improve operational outcomes—delivering efficiency at every stage.”

As industries worldwide move toward cleaner, safer, and more efficient surface preparation practices, GMA remains committed to driving sustainability, performance and value for our customers.

Discover how performance-driven abrasive selection can reduce consumption, improve surface quality and lower total project costs—try the GMA Cost Calculator to estimate savings for your next project.