IDS Inside Airblast Machine | Wheelabrator
IDS is an automated in-line airblast cell for cleaning internal passages in complex castings such as cylinder heads, crankcases and engine blocks. Robot handling, passage checking and lance-type nozzles support controlled treatment of bores and water-jacket cavities down to 11 mm diameter.
Technical profile
| Manufacturer / publisher | Wheelabrator |
|---|---|
| Category | Mass finishing & blasting systems |
| Updated | 2026-10-11 18:33:11 |
Cycle sequence
Parts arrive on a roller conveyor and are centered before a robot transfers them to a passage-check station. If an opening fails the check, the cycle pauses for operator disposition rather than blasting a blocked channel.
Verified parts enter the blast chamber, where the robot presents internal surfaces to fixed nozzle rows or inserts lances into the workpiece.
Internal-access capability
Standard straight and angled nozzles address different passage directions, while special nozzles can be developed around unusual geometry. The documented minimum passage diameter is 11 mm.
After blasting, the robot gently moves the part to release retained abrasive, transfers it to an emptying station and returns it to the conveyor.
Capacity and modularity
The modular cell can be extended with additional robot-and-chamber stations as production demand grows. Exchangeable lance-mounted nozzles allow adaptation when part geometry or cleaning requirements change.
Control and maintenance
The process combines automated handling, pre-checking, controlled positioning and abrasive logistics. Manganese liners protect the blast chamber; nozzle condition, passage verification and abrasive classification remain essential to repeatable cleaning.