Abrasive Blast Finishing

The overall project development, machine design and the building of custom abrasive blasting equipment is where my experience really shines. I have been fortunate to have designed equipment for many companies, in many industries. See References.

The project begins with trial processing of customers parts. When the right blast process is determined, wet blast or dry blast, and abrasive blast parameters chosen, it’s time to determine how to meet a customer’s production needs. There are several general approaches that are used when part handling through the blast cabinet is considered. Only years of experience helps cut-to-the-chase.

Tumbling barrels	A large quantity of parts can be processed simultaneously inside a rotating barrel.
Pinch roller conveyor	A series of pinch rollers guide the flat part through the machine.
Skewed roller	Part rotation will also feed the round part through the machine linearly.
Indexed turntable	Operator can work at a common load/unload station. The parts index into the machine when dual palm button are actuated.
Rotating turntable	A power driven worktable rotates cylindrical parts. This option often includes power driven blast guns as well.
Track and car	Parts are rolled into the blast cabinet on a car with rails system. Excellent for heavy parts.

Adding even simple part handling options greatly increases productivity and reduces operator fatigue. Operating manual blast machines for long periods of time can be very burdensome. Even the best “ergonomic” designs don’t overcome this.

I have experience in designing all of the above options. I included just a few pictures of my machine designs. If you’re not sure if some level of automation is for you, just ask Rick.