Metal finishing Q&As since 1989

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Calculation of life for vibratory machines

Sir, I am currently using a 300litre Vibratory Finishing Machine. The loading is as follows: 280 kgs (10*10)straight cut triangles ceramic media. 80 kg component. The motor is 2H.P. I would want to know how to calculate the life expectancy of the machine and the media wear rate in my case.

Niranjan S. Kulkarni
sales engineer - Thane, Maharashtra, India
2003

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That is a tough question to answer, because there are so many variables. So, probably the best way to answer it is to say that there are several different items that will wear at different rates and I will try to give you the order in which they normally wear.

1. The motor bearings may go first; however, based upon what media you are using, you may get more than 10 years out of the OEM equip. They can be replaced.

2. The tub/bowl liner may be reduced to bare metal in 15-20 years and will require re-lining. Depending on time usage the plumbing and separation system may have problems around the same 10 year factor. There are some formulation and cost usage tables based upon specification known by the manufacturers, but you may have to ask for them. Normally most mass finishing equipment systems don't have to be replaced, they just require repair.

AF Kenton
retired business owner - Hatboro, Pennsylvania
2003