Method and Apparatus for Cleaning Abrasive Blast Media

Author:  Seaverns, Glenn A.
Source:  US Patent 5,195,640
Doc ID:  1993026
Year of Publication:  1993
Abstract:  
An apparatus for recovering and cleaning contaminated abrasive blast media. The blast media is transproted in a vacuum airstream to a rotatable drum. Within the rotatable drum is a blocking assembly which selectively channels high-velosity air through an upper region of the rotatable drum and restricts the flow of air through a lower region of the drum. The blast media is repeatedly scooped up and dropped to the high volocity air stream, thus subjecting it to repeated air-washing. the blocking member includes a flexible member which provides both the open chammel region and the restriction to the airflow under the force of gravity as the drum rotates. the abrasive blast media is thus assured of being adequately washed even if the air velocity varies rendomly during the cleaning of the blast media.