TABLE OF CONTENTS Many methods are utilized in the separation of parts from media and the best approach is a generous application of common sense. One author notes that once media and parts are mixed together in a unit that can do the work, separation is the single most important cost consideration. Separation can cost more than the entire process if it is not designed into the system. The long radius burnisher described above solves this problem. Separation is accomplished in three areas:
in the machine
at the machine
remote to the machine.
The most common separation method is to pass parts and media over a screen allowing the parts to drop through and the media to remain on top or to pass off (Fig. 10-18). Should the parts have projections that can hang up in a screen hole in the pass off method, then a bar deck would allow an uninterrupted path for the parts to pass off. Step or flip stations can provide a turnover for parts that may have dished or recessed areas that would hold media. Timing is important so that an upward facing part holding media does not turn over emptying its media into another upward facing part on the lower step.
Magnetic separators work well where ferrous parts are run with a non-ferrous media and the size relationship is such that it would be the faster method. Magnetic separation usually requires a demagnetizing operation.
In-the-machine separation involves: a) hand...
