Parts Separating Systems
Surface finishing production requires the navigation of many moving parts. Once a project is created, it must then endure a tumbling application, which includes a heavy deburring and polishing process. Vibratory finishers and deburring barrels are two options you can use to achieve the desired finish of your product. But what happens after the process is complete and the parts and media need to be separated? That’s where a parts separator is applicable.
This step of the finishing process includes separating the media from the actual parts. Openings in either a tubular or flat screen allow for quick separation of media and parts. Typically, tumbling uses about a three-parts media to one-part part during finishing. This means that 75% of the load to be separated is media. Kramer Industries has a range of parts separators to efficiently complete this step. In the realm of surface finishing, there are countless ways to complete a job. In this post, we’ve outlined the two main different types of parts separator systems.
Throughout the process, parts separation is done with vibratory bowl systems. These systems have a screen deck that sits above the bowl. While the tumbling is in process, the entire load tumbles under this screen. When ready to separate, a ramp that sits on the bottom of the bowl is lifted, forcing the load onto the screen deck. As the load travels along the screen, the media falls back into the vibe and the parts travel out of the system. This type of process will only work when the parts are bigger than the media.
When parts are smaller than the media, or when using a tub style vibe or a barrel tumbler, a separate system is needed. A tubular rotary screen separating system can be rolled up to a discharge opening on a tumbler. When this door is opened, the load tumbles into the rotating screen and the media or parts fall through the screen, while the larger items travel along the tube and out the other side. This process works well for larger load volumes.
Handheld or motor-driven vibrating flat screens are best for smaller loads. These work well for barrel tumblers as there is no easy discharge port to empty the load in a tube. Basically, a small amount of the media and parts mixture is put on the flat screen and it is shaken back and forth to separate the load.
Parts separators play an important role in a surface finishing project. Even after the finishing is done, efficient parts separation must take place. For fast, easy, and proficient production, rely on Kramer Industries for your finishing equipment needs. With our expert help, you’ll no longer waste valuable production time on cumbersome tasks, such as separation. Contact our team with any questions about parts separation. We’re here to help you finish your job right.