Metal finishing Q&As since 1989

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Plastic Media Target Life

Hi

I have a question related to target life of plastic blasting media used to Deflash molded rubber of metal plate in plate-seal assemblies, (the metal plate has grooves into which rubber is molded). For good sealing the molded elastomer needs to stay intact. However utilizing the blasting media beyond its target life may embed fragments of the blasting media into the rubber, which may cause it to fail its sealing function in service. The supplier has very vague guidelines for replacing the media. It is either that it is no longer effective in removing molded rubber of the metallic plate, or that the ambiance inside the blasting cabinet "gets too dusty" and obscures visibility of the operator through the cabinet window. I have not found any specifications or industy guidelines as to the blasting media longevity. Any ideas or suggestions?

Thanks,

Dave Mars
Aerospace Engineer - Tucson, Arizona, USA
2004

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I think the answer you got from your source is about the same answer you will get from any knowledgable person. The problem is caused by the variables of all mechanical systems as to how the energy is applied to the media, the hardness of the parts and the media, and how that media moves in relation to the parts.

AF Kenton
retired business owner - Hatboro, Pennsylvania
2004