APPARATUS AND PROCESS FOR CLEANING ITEMS IN THE MANUFACTURING PROCESS; AND MECHANISM FOR ADVANCING ITEMS CONSECUTIVELY FOR A WORKSTATION

摘要

A method and apparatus for cleaning a succession of workpieces such as automobile engine blocks includes a first cleaning mechanism 100 wherein cleaning media such as steel shot is directed against the workpieces. After being discharged from the first cleaning mechanism, the workpieces are in- verted and passed through a second cleaning mechanism 300 where cleaning media again is directed against the workpieces. In the second cleaning mechanism, the workpieces are separated so that the ends of the workpieces can be cleaned. The apparatus includes turning mechanisms 200, 400 for inverting the workpieces as well as devices for controlling the movement of the workpieces through the different cleaning and turning mechanisms. IMAGE