Abrasive Blasting Machine for Cleaning of Carbide Tools

The carbide inserts of different sizes and shapes after the sintering process are required to be cleaned for removal of WAX / Foreign material without effecting surface integrity and finish.

AWSFS has developed Vapour Honing Machine based on the suction induction principle of blasting. The fine particles are suspended in liquid [usually water] and are then pumped into the Blast Guns as slurry. By combining this method, AWSFS created a “shot blasting machine” that provides efficient and effective surface treatment, with the liquid medium improving precision and providing oversight during the blasting process.

The machine is a Rotary Indexing Type blast cabinet for carbide cleaning, featuring a specific number of satellites for placing the inserts on the fixtures. The indexing satellite carries the fixtures into the blast chamber where it starts rotating at the blasting station. The reciprocating mechanism with a multi-blast gun is provided for covering the entire surface of the fixture, thus cleaning the surfaces of the inserts. The machine incorporates precise controls of blasting parameters to achieve high performance.

In this article, we will look at the process and benefits of abrasive blasting machines used for carbide tool cleaning.

Abrasive Blasting Machine for Cleaning Carbide Tools: its Process

The process of using an abrasive blasting machine for metal tool cleaning involves several steps to ensure thorough and effective cleaning while preserving the integrity of the tools. Here’s an overview of the process:

1. Preparation of Abrasive Blasting Machine:

• Select the appropriate abrasive media based on the type of carbide tool and the nature of the contaminants to be removed. Common abrasive media include aluminum oxide, garnet, and glass beads.
• Ensure that the abrasive blasting machine is properly set up and calibrated according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Check and adjust the pressure, velocity, and nozzle configuration of the blasting machine to achieve the desired cleaning effect.

2. Preparation of Carbide Tools:

• Inspect the carbide tools for any visible contaminants, coatings, or residues that need to be removed.
• Ensure that the carbide tools are securely located in the blasting cabinet or chamber to prevent movement during the cleaning process.
• If necessary, mask off any delicate areas of the carbide tools to protect them from abrasion.

3. Abrasive Blasting Process:

• Start the abrasive blasting machine and adjust the settings to the desired velocity and pressure.
• Move the nozzle evenly and systematically across the surface of the carbide tools, maintaining a consistent distance to ensure uniform cleaning.
• Direct the nozzle of the blasting gun or lance towards the surface of the carbide tools at an appropriate distance and angle.
• Check the progress of cleaning thoroughly, adjusting the parameters of blasting as needed to achieve the desired level of cleanliness.

4. Post-Blasting Inspection and Finishing:

• Once the abrasive blasting process is complete, inspect the carbide tools thoroughly to ensure that all contaminants and residues have been effectively removed. Utilizing an abrasive blast cabinet for carbide tools offers several benefits, including precision cleaning, preservation of tool integrity, etc.
• Use compressed air or a vacuum system to remove any loose abrasive media and debris from the surface of the tools.
• If necessary, perform additional cleaning or finishing processes such as rinsing with water or solvent washing to remove any remaining traces of abrasive media or contaminants.
• Inspect the surface of the carbide tools for any signs of damage or wear resulting from the blasting process, and address any issues accordingly.

5. Surface Protection and Storage:

• Apply a protective coating or surface treatment to the cleaned carbide tools, if required, to prevent corrosion or oxidation.
• Store the cleaned carbide tools in a clean and dry environment to maintain their cleanliness and integrity until they are ready for use.
• By following these steps to best practices for abrasive blasting, carbide tools can be effectively cleaned and prepared for optimal performance and longevity.

Benefits of Abrasive Blasting Machines for Cleaning Carbide Tools

• Quality Cleaning: Abrasive blasting machines deliver accurate metal tool cleaning, efficiently removing tough deposits, corrosion, and coatings from carbide tools. That accuracy guarantees that the tools keep their quantitative correctness and surface quality, vital for constant performance.
• Improved Efficiency: Abrasive blasting machine supplies are substantially more efficient than manual cleaning procedures. They can clean huge batches of carbide tools quickly, speeding production operations and decreasing downtime.
• Multipurpose: Abrasive blasting machines are flexible instruments that can tolerate a variety of abrasive materials and modify blasting parameters to meet individual metal tool cleaning needs. Alternatives to sandblasting for carbide tools are also available, offering different methods such as ultrasonic cleaning or chemical cleaning for specific applications or preferences.
• Environmentally Friendly: Many current abrasive blasting machines utilize eco-friendly abrasive material and feature dust collection devices to minimize environmental impact. This eco-conscious approach coincides with sustainable practices, making abrasive blasting a responsible choice for carbide tool cleaning.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Although the initial investment in abrasive blasting equipment may appear high, the long-term cost-effectiveness is clear. Lower labor expenses, higher productivity, and a kept tool lifespan all add up to significant long-term savings, making abrasive blasting a reasonable investment for sectors that count on carbide tools.

Conclusion:

Abrasive blasting machines, commonly known as “shot blasting machines,” play a crucial role in maintaining carbide tools, providing benefits such as precision cleaning, increased efficiency, and non-destructive cleaning. Their versatility makes them important equipment in companies that use carbide tools for a variety of applications. As technology advances, abrasive blasting machines will become even more efficient to meet the changing needs of industrial cleaning applications.
For additional information on the most recent advancements in abrasive blasting technology and how they can assist your specific cleaning needs, please contact us right now!