RÖSLER OBERFLÄCHENTECHNIK GmbH has a new program for shot blasting simulation that promises to optimize new surface treatment processes while still minimizing the use of additional time and resources.
Shot blasting, a process similar to sandblasting, uses small particles to thoroughly abrade a surface and prepare it for painting or coating. Rösler’s software makes it easier for metalworkers to install new shot blasting processes by simulating variables in the process including the type of material used, the quantity of material necessary, and how the material will flow during the process.
Rösler’s software simulates each particle of abrasive material in its digital model, which lets clients determine all the variables necessary to fully cover a simulated piece of work in CAD form before installation. In a release, the company says simulations will reduce the capital expenditures required to invest in a shot blasting process.
“Time-consuming and costly processing trials with actual work pieces are more or less completely eliminated,” the company says.
Additional simulator modules tailor the simulation to more precise needs. According to Rösler, commissioning large shot blasting machines for components larger than 20 x 5 x 4 meters (about 65 x 16 x 13 feet) is especially challenging, since trial machines in appropriate sizes are difficult to source, so one extra module is dedicated specifically to simulating extra large or complex projects. Another module specializes in simulating air flow in order to optimize dust collection processes, and another specifically focuses on quickly processing batches of several pieces at a time.
Regardless of the project, Rösler also says that its simulations include digital twins of running shot-blast equipment, identifying parts likely to see the most wear and enable preventative maintenance.
Learn more at www.rosler.com