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Friess Equipment, Inc.

Finishing & Cleaning Equipment Specialists – Since 1963

Custom Blasting Systems

Indexing Turntable Machines

Indexing Turntable systems have been a staple in the manufacturing industry for many years.   An indexing turntable provides precise positioning of the work piece in front of blasting nozzles for guaranteed repeatability of process requirements.  These units allow for a variety of loading and unloading options, ranging from simple manual operation to more sophisticated robotic operations.

Empire offers a variety of standard platforms along with custom systems to accomodate almost any size work piece.  Depending on customers production requirements, configurations can range from 2 -24 rotating part stations.  Along with precise positioning of the indexing turntable, the rotating part stations add to the assurance of quality and complete part coverage during the blasting cycle.  These systems also allow for a variety of nozzle manipulation packages ranging from simple stationary nozzles, horizontal/vertical linear operations to more sophisticated robotic movement.

Batch Processing Machines

Our batch processing systems, which include both continuous and indexing turntable machines, are ideal for parts requiring long blast cycles. In the typical work scenario, the operator loads work pieces onto the turntable, sets the timer, starts the machine and returns when the cycle is completed. By adding a blowoff manifold and timer, which automatically remove residual material from the part and turntable, the operator is freed from the often dusty task of manual blow-off.

Empire's PF-4848-RS with a 36-inch turntable, our PF-6060-RS with a 48-inch turntable and the PF- 7272-RS with a 60-inch turntable feature rotating blast guns that assure even coverage. Blast-head and tablerotation speeds are both variable to meet a wide range of production requirements. Rotary blast heads for these machines are available with four, six or nine blast guns.

Single Piece Flow Cell Machines

Empire's single-station cell machines serve as just one example of how we meet the ever-changing demands of manufacturers worldwide. Our cell machines reduce inventory requirements and conserve floor space, giving many customers the winning edge in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.

Rotary-Head Machines

The rotary head system was originally pioneered by Empire over 35 years ago. This unique method of blasting ensures complete part coverage, even with irregular shaped parts. Blasting is accomplished through Empire’s MH-3 suction type blast guns. The rotary head configuration is available in 4, 6 and 9 gun arrangements. These guns are mounted on a rotating assembly which includes media flow regulators and universally adjustable arms to position each blast gun. Each gun can be manually turned on and off to reduce air consumption when processing non complex parts. Once locked into place, the guns will not change position due to vibration, inertial loads, or other forces normal to the system. The head speed is easily adjustable from 0-60 RPM.

Shot Peening Machines

Empire has specialized in shot peen equipment for close to 50 years. Though the visual appeal of a shot peening machine is very similar to a conventional ‘blast cleaning’ machine, the process is quite different. Shot peening is all about controlling the process of blasting. Shot peening is driven, protected and monitored by audits and specifications. Conformance to such audits and specifications is the only way one can achieve repeatable, accurate and consistent peening results. At the core of all blasting processes is the concept of transferring impact energy on to the component being processed. In shot peening, we monitor and control this impact energy by its major constituents – air pressure, media flow rate, constant media size, media shape and several other parameters.   We offer a variety of platforms to meet any customers part configurations and specifications.

In-Line Blast Machines

In-Line blast systems are available in a variety of configurations.  Final design being influenced by part size, weight, shape and material handling requirements.    These systems can be as simple as a flat belt, split belts, or a roller type while more sophisticated systems are built with horizontal or vertical pinch belts.  Nozzle manipulation is also a large portion of what defines the function of our In-Line systems.  This can be just simple fixed guns, both horizontal and vertical nozzle oscillation, rotary heads, robotic manipulation or a combination of any of these types.

Custom Automated Systems

Custom Automated systems are available for your specific application.  Final configuration/design being influenced by part size, weight, shape, production rates and material handling requirements.  No matter what your application demands, we can custom engineer a system to fit your process and production requirements.