Portable Blast Wheel Cleaning Machine

Author:  Robert B Watkin, Peachtree City, GA
Source:  US Patent 5,885,141
Doc ID:  1999075
Year of Publication:  1999
Abstract:  
An apparatus for blast cleaning a generally vertical surface is disclosed. The device features a blast cabinet containing a blast wheel rotatably mounted about a horizontal axis. The blast wheel is positioned adjacent to an opening in the cabinet through which it propels abrasive material against the vertical surface being cleaned. Rebounding abrasive again contacts the rotating blast wheel. This contact deflects the particulate through a rebound corridor, to the side and into-a filter. The abrasive then falls into a storage hopper for reuse. A conveyor is rotatably mounted so as to catch leaked particulate matter. The conveyor features a pair of opposing feed screws that meet in the middle of the conveyor so that leaked particulate matter is projected up to the blast wheel in a manner similar to a water fountain. The particulate matter is then propelled by the blast wheel to the rebound corridor.