Blast wheel shot blasting is the most economical method among the current cleaning techniques, as well as the one that minimizes environmental impact.
The shot blasting principle is based on the use of kinetic energy from the abrasive used when it impacts the surface of the piece, removing impurities. The performance of the equipment depends on the quality, quantity, speed and direction of the shot; these last three factors depend entirely on the correct operation of the blast wheels. The wheel is the heart of the machine, and has decisive influence on the effectiveness of the work performed, the appearance of the blasted surface, the production costs and thus the profitability of the process. Shot blasting machines can use multiple wheels located in such a way that they allow the abrasive to cover the whole surface of the items to be shot blasted. The number of wheels mounted on a machine is determined by the shape and size if the items to be cleaned. The shot blasting power installed is usually what is required to achieve the desired surface finish in one process at an adequate speed The operation of blast wheels is similar to that of a fan or a centrifuge pump. The wheels throw the abrasive through centrifugal force in a determined direction,speed and amount. The abrasive enters the wheel through the down comer elbow or feeding bushing, from the storage hopper. The impeller provides an initial acceleration of the shot, pushing it through the opening of the control cage. Then the shot continues toward the vanes or blades. The shot is thrown by the latter, through centrifugal force, until it reaches the pieces to be treated.
Cym Materiales has a wide range of wheel models available, which can be tailored to each customer’s specific needs. The different wheel models are the following: