Dan Quigley (@mgi2212 ) has done a substantial amount of work to improve our sand blaster. Many thanks to him!
Notes from him:
Media Blaster Upgrade Completed!
I’m excited to announce that the Media Blaster upgrades are officially complete and ready for immediate use! Here’s a summary of the enhancements and updates:
Key Enhancements:
• Improved Media Filtration:Installed a new fine-screen filtration system, magnetically mounted beneath the primary grate - this will reduce media contamination.
• Upgraded Vacuum & Dust Management System:New vacuum motor installed.Vacuum port relocated to the rear, with former vacuum connection repurposed as a vent.
• Reinforced seals featuring stainless steel mesh and high-temperature gasket material.
• Enhanced vacuum plumbing with a combination of rigid and flexible tubing (fully operational, awaiting clamp installation).
• Enhanced Lighting:Two new high-intensity IP68-rated daylight LEDs installed internally, complementing existing blue and red lighting. Powered via an IP65-rated junction box for reliable and safe operation.
• Static Control Improvements:Added grounding wire along with copper and aluminum foil static discharge strips to significantly reduce electrostatic buildup, preventing media clumping.
• New Pneumatic Air Regulator:Installed to maintain consistent pressure during operation.
New Routine (Maintenance) Tasks:
• Regularly vacuum accumulated material from the filtration screen as part of a cleanup routine
• Periodically check and empty the vacuum’s lower compartment
• Temporarily manage the state of the compressed air valve manually (turn on during use and off during cleanup) until relocation is completed and the solenoid is installed.
Remaining Tasks (Post-Relocation):
These enhancements will be addressed once we move into our new workspace:
• Installation of clamps to securely seal the vacuum/collector (currently relying on vacuum suction).
• Integration of pneumatic solenoid to automate compressed air management.
• Addition of media shaker device for improved media handling.
• Construction of a permanent riser for the blaster cabinet and vacuum, accommodating taller users and including a step for shorter team members.
A huge thanks to everyone involved for making this happen! The Media Blaster is now loaded, recommissioned, and ready for immediate operation.