Section 2: Getting Started
MicroBlaster MB1005
Comco Inc.
2-2
Issue Date: September 2003
The Proper Work Area
The MicroBlaster should be used in an environment that:
Provides adequate ventilation.
Provides adequate lighting both inside and outside the primary
workstation. Comco recommends that the general environment be
illuminated with at least 50 decaluxes and that the interior of the
workstation be illuminated with a minimum of 125 decaluxes.
Is between 68ºF and 85ºF, with less than 40 percent relative humidity.
The MicroBlaster is intended for use in a factory or shop environment. It is
not
designed
for use where it could be exposed to rain, caustic chemicals, heavy vibration, and other
non-standard environments. Use in applications other than those described in this
manual may result in hazardous conditions and void the warranty.
Since it is impossible to achieve 100% containment of the abrasive within the system, it
is not recommended for use in a “clean room”.
In addition to the MicroBlaster, typically three additional elements are needed for proper
micro-abrasive blasting: a workstation, a dust collector, and a dry air supply. The
following paragraphs explain the importance of each of these items. Refer to figure 2-1
to see how these items work together as a complete system.
Workstation
A suitable hood or box providing a means of working with the abrasive material without
contaminating the atmosphere of the room is required. It must protect the operator's
face and provide adequate light. The Comco WS2200 and WS6000 WorkStations are
designed for this purpose. Refer to Appendix C for more information.
Dust Collector
In order to remove the spent abrasive, a suitable industrial dust collector is required.
These dust collectors have both high air flow and large filter areas to keep work areas
clean and dust free. The Comco DC2000 and DC2100 are both suitable dust collectors
for most micro-abrasive blasting applications. A four-inch diameter hose, supplied with
the dust collector, is used to connect the workstation to the dust collector.
Air Supply
The propellant required for the abrasive is compressed air or neutral gas that meets the
Detail Specifications outlined in Section 1. Comco has a complete line of air dryers for
shop (compressed) air supplies that will meet or exceed those specifications.
Bottled gas such as CO
2
or nitrogen provides clean, dry air, and may be used if shop air
is not available. However, depending on operating conditions, a 50 lb. bottle of gas will
only last 10-20 hours. Bottled gas does not require air dryers, but may require special
regulators. Contact Comco for more information.
Summary of Contents for MB1005-1
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