Removable high velocity blast cabinet vestibule

Abstract

Provided is an easily entrance vestibule configured to be quickly and easily installed on a conventional blasting machine, wherein the entrance vestibule includes an entrance channel configured to allow work-pieces to enter the blasting machine for blasting operations. The entrance vestibule is configured to create an airflow through the entrance channel to urge particulate from escaping the blasting machine through the entrance channel. The entrance vestibule is further configured to allow for quick and easy removal of the vestibule from the blasting machine at the conclusion of the blasting operations.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]Not Applicable.STATEMENT RE: FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH / DEVELOPMENT[0002]Not ApplicableBACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]1. Technical Field of the Invention[0004]The present invention relates generally to an abrasive blasting machine, and more particularly to an easily attachable / detachable entrance vestibule for an abrasive blasting machine that allows a long work-piece to extend through the entrance vestibule for abrasive treatment while at the same time mitigating abrasive / particulate escape from the blasting machine.[0005]2. Description of the Related Art[0006]Blast cabinets are well-known in the art and are typically utilized to clean or generally prepare surfaces of a work-piece by directing high pressure fluid containing abrasive blast media or blast particulate toward the work-piece. The abrasive blast particulate is typically a relatively hard material such as sand, sodium bicarbonate (i.e., baking soda), metallic shot or glass ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent is for an abrasive blasting machine that has a vestibule for introducing work-pieces into the blast chamber. The vestibule is made up of a base plate that covers the housing opening and an extension member that creates a channel for the work-piece to enter. The entrance channel also allows ambient air to enter the chamber. This design helps maintain negative pressure in the chamber to prevent particulate matter from escaping during operation. The entrance vestibule can be easily connected to the blast cabinet housing with pin hinges, and it can be engaged without removing the blast cabinet door. Technical effects include improved safety and efficiency in blasting operations.

Problems solved by technology

During blasting, the blast particulate bounces off of the work-piece and is generally violently thrown about within the enclosure.

However, larger pieces, particularly longer pieces, may not be able to fit within the blasting machine so that the door can close to define an air-tight enclosure.

Furthermore, if the door is left open, an air-tight enclosure will not be formed, which disrupts the flow characteristics and negative pressure within the blasting machine and dangerously allows the particulate to escape from the machine during blasting operations.

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