Advanced wet blast machine

Citation

(2005), "Advanced wet blast machine", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 77 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2005.12777bad.005

Advanced wet blast machine

Advanced wet blast machine

Keywords: Abrasives, Components

Abrasive Developments has launched a brand new wet blast machine – the “Vaqua 150” – which is constructed in 304 stainless steel for maximum durability, corrosion resistance and ultra-clean working, and incorporates advanced operating features to maximise process efficiency. All internal parts are non-ferrous to further reduce the risk of contamination of the components being processed.

A major advantage claimed of non- ferrous construction for the wet blasting process is that the need to add anti- corrosion inhibitors to the blast media is unnecessary in most normal applications. This is particularly important when processing safety critical components made from non-ferrous materials.

The Vaqua 150 also features a two- speed (4.8/6.O kW) process motor, which, together with variable compressed air control, enables processing parameters to be adjusted to suit any application.

The machine has a generous 1450 mm wide × 1200 mm deep × 880 mm high processing enclosure, and includes a 500 kg capacity rotating worktable to facilitate component handling. The large safety-glass viewing window, fitted with an internal water spray and wiper system together with a high level of internal illumination and internal white reflective rubber protective curtains, ensure excellent operator visibility. Overall machine dimensions are: 1500 × 2000 × 2000 mm high.

The processing enclosure has a large 1100 × 1100 mm access door on each side, providing through access for in- line production, and both doors are safety-interlocked to prevent them being opened while the machine is in operation.

The Vaqua 150 has convenient, foot- operated pump function and air solenoid controls to enable the operator to work continuously without removing his hands from the integral polyurethane gauntlets. Special ports allow the gauntlets to be changed quickly from outside the machine for cleanliness and ease and speed of fitting (Plate 1).

The machine is also equipped with a specially designed submersible pump with an external quick-release mechanism to facilitate maintenance.

Plate 1 The new “Vaqua150” wet blast machine from Abrasive Developments provides an efficient and dust-free method of simultaneously cleaning and degreasing components for surface preparation and finishing. The machine features non-ferrous construction to eliminate the risk of contamination

Standard options include a closed- loop recirculating system to control effluent discharge, an external load/ unload trolley mounted turntable, a “Klarti” clarifier to remove oil and grease, a polyurethane protective cover for the turntable, and a counter- balanced gun for maximum operator comfort.

A high efficiency, portable wet cyclone is also available for media removal and separation. This separates out contamination from the component and degraded blast media from good media, allowing the latter to be reused and thereby reducing running costs.

The wet blast process uses a controlled mix of abrasive slurry and water, delivered under controlled pressure by compressed air, via a special process gun and pump system, and is described as a highly efficient, economical, and dust-free means of simultaneously cleaning and degreasing components for the surface preparation or surface finishing of a wide variety of component substrates – metals, plastics and composite materials – with minimal risk of substrate damage.

Part of the ISPC Surface Preparation Group, Abrasive Developments manufactures a wide range of Vaqua manually operated and automated wet blasting machines for applications ranging from small workshop degreasing and cleaning to dedicated, computerised wet peening systems for aeroengine components.

Details available from: Abrasive Developments, Air Blast Division, ISPC Surface Preparation Ltd. Tel: +44 (0)1753 526511; Fax: +44 (0)1753 538093; web site: www.surfacepreparation.com