ABSTRACT
This chapter quantifies the relative contamination levels of commonly used blasting media, thereby substantiating the choice of media. It discusses burr formation, deburring techniques, the experimental methodology, and the blasting media used. The chapter covers the cleanliness results, the automated image analysis system, and a detailed look at the particles coming from the test parts. Deburring by abrasive blasting could leave residual media that could initiate corrosion or wear and potentially be a source of contamination. There are five general categories of deburring techniques. These are: mechanical; abrasive; electrical; chemical; and thermal. Abrasive jet blasting is a cost-effective deburring technique that can be easily automated. Abrasive blasting is not without its risks and must be done under controlled conditions to prevent contamination of the part. Cross-contamination may be caused by other types of media (e.g., glass beads or sand) or by the removed burrs from other previously blasted parts (e.g., brass parts).
