Bead Blaster
The bead blaster is used to remove left over material from a surface without damaging the surface. This is done by blasting fine glass beads at high pressure. It leaves a textured finish. The bead blaster (Cyclone) at the University of Idaho is located at the back of the machine shop in the welding area.
How to Use the Bead Blaster
- Step 1.
Open the door to the chamber and place part inside.
- Step 2.
Close and lock the chamber.
- Step 3.
Turn on the vacuum.
- Step 4.
Open the air pressure valve located on lower left side of the chamber.
- Step 5.
Place your hands in the gloves and use the bead blaster as evenly as possible (beads cannot penetrate gloves).
- Step 6.
Close the air valve and depressurize the sandblaster.
- Step 7.
Turn off the vacuum.
- Step 8.
Remove your part.
- Step 9.
Clean up any fallen sand (DO NOT use vacuum).
If Your Piece Falls Through the Gate
- Step 1.
Place a 5 gallon bucket with a strainer under the release valve located at the bottom of the chamber.
- Step 2.
Hold the valve open until your piece falls into the bucket(it is spring loaded, but make sure it closes completely).
- Step 3.
Pour beads back into the chamber through the door.