Equipment Updates
AutoFill Keeps Production Humming
AutoFill, as its name implies, automatically refills the abrasive tank so your operator does not have to. And it refills faster, cleaner and more efficiently than most experienced operators.
Why?
It senses when the tank is low—eliminating time lost to constant checking or running out of your abrasive mid-blast cycle.
The filling operation is totally automatic and requires no operator involvement—reducing the potential for error or variation.
Media moves from a sealed drum to the sealed abrasive tank, with no exposure to moisture and environmental contaminants.
No pouring necessary—no spills!
AutoFill often performs the task faster than an operator.
Running out of abrasive on an automated application is more problematic. If the system runs out of abrasive, the blast program aborts, which may mean a loss of product or rework.
How Does AutoFill Work?
AutoFill pulls abrasive from the Powder Pail into the AccuFlo tank. It’s that simple.
AutoFill is Smart
AutoFill monitors the blast cycle. Based on factory settings, AutoFill requests a “Fill Cycle” after 30 minutes of blasting. It does not interrupt blasting; it simply waits 2 seconds after the blast cycle ends and then begins filling.
AutoFill Senses
AutoFill uses a sensor to gauge when the abrasive tank is full. When the tank is full, AutoFill stops filling and tells the AccuFlo to pressurize in preparation for blasting. Fill times range between 1-3 minutes, depending on the type of abrasive in use and the lengths of hoses connecting components.
AutoFill is Customizable
The timers on the AutoFill are customizable. If you run a rich media flow, you can shorten the 30-minute countdown timer to avoid running the tank empty. If your blast programs consist of several blast cycles with gaps in between, you can extend the 2-second delay to avoid refills during the program gaps.
AutoFill can rely on its internal sensors and timers and run independently, or it can be controlled externally using three inputs and outputs:
- • The “Force Fill” input allows a host PLC or automatic machine to initiate the “Fill Cycle.”
- • The “Inhibit Fill” input stops the AutoFill from refilling under any circumstance.
- • The “Ok-to-Blast” output indicates that the countdown timer has not reached zero, and the blaster is available for blasting.
Where can I use AutoFill?
AutoFill works with for both manual and automated blasting systems.
AutoFill pairs seamlessly with our AccuFlo and ProCenter Plus manual MicroBlasting station. It’s ideal where use is continuous or nearly continuous or when used for multiple shifts per day.
AutoFill is deal for Comco automated platforms, the Advanced Lathe and JetCenter, and can also be integrated into your own automation through PLC.
Applications Lab
Let our experts help find the right solution for your part. We know no two applications are the same. Our Technical Specialists manage sample-part testing and processing from start-to-finish. They actively collaborate with our Sales and Engineering Teams while remaining completely accessible to you throughout the process.
Questions about MicroBlasting?
If you think AutoFill will speed up and clean up your blasting process or just have questions about your application, contact me:
