Grit-Blast System for Precision Surface Preparation

Guyson’s model RB-72 extended-height robotic blast machine features a 72" × 72" work envelope and pressure-blast media delivery for precision-surface preparation applications in the aerospace industry, including composite structures. The machine uses a six-axis FANUC M-20iA robot as a blast nozzle manipulator, with the blast hose routed directly through the robot’s hollow arm. According to the company, the machine is capable of constantly and accurately maintaining the correct nozzle angle, stand-off distance and surface speed throughout the programmed blasting cycle.

The machine’s 36"-diameter powered turntable has a 1,000-lbs weight capacity. The servomotor-driven table is controlled as a seventh axis of coordinated robotic motion to exactly orient components that are fixture on it. T-slots facilitate positioning of interchangeable fixtures. A dual-chambered, continuous-blasting pressure vessel holds 8 cu. ft. of media and a grit storage hopper holds a reserve supply of 3 cu. ft. When electronic probes in the pressure pot detect a low media level, fresh blasting grit is automatically added to the system.

The machine can be equipped to sense and automatically control blast pressure, verify grit flow, and detect and indicate loss of air supply pressure, inadequate reclaim air flow or full dust drum. The programmable logic controller supervises all functions of the blast cabinet and the media reclamation and delivery system. The robotic arm and robot controller can be dedicated to the motion of the blast nozzle or the part that is associated with the process recipe for each component.