The Science and Art of Sandblasting in Industrial Applications

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Check out how an essential manufacturing process of sandblasting evolves with new techniques and materials to meet modern demands. Don't miss out on Stanford’s breakthrough in robotic actuation, a game-changer in energy efficiency and mechanical control.

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INDUSTRY UPDATES

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SPOTLIGHT

The Critical Role of Sandblasting in Manufacturing

Sandblasting, also known as abrasive blasting, is an effective surface treatment process that has made a positive impact on various industries. The method utilizes compressed air to propel abrasive materials on surfaces to remove impurities like paint, rust, and other contaminants. It can also be used to etch intricate designs onto almost any surface.

Benjamin Chew Tilghman patented the technique, which originated in the 1870s. It was inspired by natural sand-driven erosion and significantly evolved over the years, particularly after Thomas Wesley Pangborn introduced compressed air into the system in 1904. This addition enhanced the blasting process in both efficiency and control.

Sandblasting is appreciated for its versatility and efficiency in modern industrial processes for high-quality surface preparation. Today, due to health risks associated with silica exposure, a variety of materials other than sand are used. These include steel grit, glass beads, and aluminum oxide, each chosen based on the specific requirements. This adaptability makes sandblasting an invaluable process in industries ranging from automotive to aerospace.

How Sandblasting Works

The sandblasting process includes two main components: the blast pot and the compressor. The blast pot houses the abrasive media, which moves through a valve regulated by the operator. On the other hand, the compressor drives the media out under pressure through a handheld nozzle, directing the stream toward the target surface.

The choice of blasting material significantly affects the outcome. For example, aluminum oxide offers a sharp, angular cut suitable for preparing surfaces for painting or coating. Glass beads give a smoother finish, ideal for cleaning delicate parts without causing damage.

New sandblasting equipment may include features like a recovery system that recycles the abrasive media or advanced cabinets and rooms designed to accommodate various scales of sandblasting needs. 

Safety and Innovations

Sandblasting safety has also seen significant improvements. Equipment now includes features that minimize the release of dust and abrasive materials, reducing the operator's exposure to dangerous particles.

Innovations like wet blasting incorporate water into the process to suppress dust and cool the surface, which is beneficial in reducing the thermalimpact on sensitive materials.

Sandblasting remains an essential technique in manufacturing and maintenance known for its ability to clean and prepare surfaces efficiently.

MechTech Innovations

Stanford’s Breakthrough in Robotic Actuation

Researchers team, led by associate professor of mechanical engineering Steve Collins, made a significant breakthrough in robotic actuation. A spring-assisted actuator cleverly combines springs' power retention capabilities with electric motors' control and versatility. 

Standard electric and hydraulic motors popularly used for robotic operations are known for their torque output. However, they are also known for unsustainable energy consumption—proportional to the square of the torque.

On the other hand, springs offer nearly as much energy as they absorb. But they lacked controllability until now. Collins' team has developed a system integrating electroadhesiveclutches with elastomersprings. This allows precise control over the spring's energy storage and release.

The new actuator design uses discrete transmission via multiple clutches, allowing for controlled energy engagement and torque modulation. The system can adjust the torque by activating specific clutches. It is capable of storing energy when stretched and releasing it as needed. This mechanism allows robots to operate with reduced power—up to 97 percent less than contemporary systems.

This system holds great potential in roboticapplications, prosthetics, and various motor-dependent devices. The next steps involve refining the system for practical, industry-wide use by making it modular and easily integrated in place of current motors.

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🌆The City of Lost Children (1995)
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🧭The Golden Compass (2007)
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🌊Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001)
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🤖9 (2009)
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