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Abrasive Vacuum Recovery Systems Buying Guide
With nearly 50 years of experience with vacuum equipment, BlastOne has encountered a wide range of projects and requirements for different types of vacuum reclamation systems. This guide is designed to help you choose the best abrasive vacuum recovery system for your specific application.
When it comes to industrial blasting projects, efficient abrasive recovery is critical. Whether you’re working on ship hulls, inside tanks, or bridge containments, you need a system that can handle the recovery of spent abrasive quickly and effectively. This is where BlastOne’s Vacuload Recovery Systems come into play. Designed specifically for blasting sites, these systems ensure that spent abrasives are collected at a central point, ready for recycling or disposal.
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These units are specifically designed for on-site blasting with metallic abrasives
The most common scenario for this is a steel bridge project
Specifically designed to recover and recycle metallic abrasive.
Includes grit cleaning capabilities. Grit cleaning module is engineering to suit the density of metallic abrasive.
Vacuum recovery and blasting are separated i.e. it is not a vacuum shrouded blast nozzle type system.
Higher production rate than vacuum blasting but job-site will require
Uses a cyclone cleaning system for cleaning the grit. Cyclonic cleaning systems are high velocity by nature and maintenance schedules need to be followed closely
Ideal where access is limited but vacuum recovery does provide productivity benefits
Can be used for vacuum blasting and with vacuum shrouded hand tools
Can be used for vacuum loading of blast pots
Ideal for projects where efficient collection and separation of abrasive and dust are critical.
Suitable for operations that require a storage solution for both new and used abrasive.
Can be used to feed blast pots with new abrasive or to manage waste material by loading it into bulk bags
Works with any style of vacuum system
Mid-range vacuum recovery system
Most common sized unit
Requires external compressed air
Often used in tank blasting and in shipyards
These units are specifically designed for on-site blasting with metallic abrasives
The most common scenario for this is a steel bridge project
High production vacuum recovery system
Uses a diesel powered blower to generate vacuum
Often used in plant maintenance due to it’s ease of shifting
Same scenarios as 616 but with a higher recovery rate
Benefits
Relatively low cost entry into vacuum blasting. Versatile – can load into 55 gal. drum, directly into a blast pot, into a bulk bag or feed an interceptor
Portable – easy to move and transport around site
Effectively drops out 90% of the dust and all abrasive before it reaches the Vacuload unit
Operates without the need for extra power or compressed air
Cyclone design provides an efficient separation process without the need for cartridges
Can double as a storage hopper for either new or used abrasive
Higher productivity than Vacuload Series 1
High capacity
Specifically designed to recover and recycle metallic abrasive.
Includes grit cleaning capabilities. Grit cleaning module is engineering to suit the density of metallic abrasive.
Vacuum recovery and blasting are separated i.e. it is not a vacuum shrouded blast nozzle type system.
Higher production rate than vacuum blasting but job-site will require containment.
Diesel powered, does not require external compressed air.
Self contained – one piece of equipment to move and position.
Same benefits as 616 but with maximum recovery rates that would suit almost any common size of multi-blaster teams.
Disadvantages
Existing compressor may not have sufficient capacity to run vacuum and blast machine simultaneously
Storage capacity may be limited depending on the size of the project, potentially requiring frequent emptying
Available in only three sizes, which may not suit all specific project needs, particularly for large-scale operations
Will require separate compressor to the one supplying your blast pot
Uses a cyclone cleaning system for cleaning the grit. Cyclonic cleaning systems are high velocity by nature and maintenance schedules need to be followed closely
Blower is very noisy – try to avoid using near residential or office facilities
Jobsite cleanup is the final necessary task in completing any project and no one enjoys the activity. It can be both time consuming and costly. A vacuuming recovery system is a significant improvement over the typical broom and shovel strategy. In this week’s Primed Insight Vince explains the mechanics of the Vacuload 1 system as well as giving a quick demonstration as to how powerful the suction truly is.
Time is money and thus any tool that improves efficiency also improves profitability. BlastOne offers many models of our Vacuload recovery systems for rental/hire which provides companies the option of speedy clean up without any investment expenditure. The system operates from the your jobsite air compressor and doesn’t need any electrical hookups.
The video referenced Vacuload 1 has many uses:
Vacuum recovery of bulk abrasives
Vacuum loading of blast pots
Acting as vacuum source for vacuum blasting
Vacuum shrouded hand tools
The Vacuload 1 has a built in filter cartridge to capture lead dust. This filter is self cleaning with the built-in pulse system.
Depending on your compressor and requirements, the Vacuload system utilize venturi-style eduction nozzles ranging from 150 cfm to 550 cfm.
NOT JUST A FANCY SHOP VAC
To see how powerful the Vacuload 1 truly is, watch the video and see how quickly the powerful suction of a 350cfm implodes a non-reinforced drum barrel
We want to know what questions, challenges, and problems you’re facing – either with blasting or painting – that we may be able to solve.
Key Features of Vacuload Systems
Designed for Blasting Sites
Vacuload systems are built to handle abrasives, making them ideal for various blasting applications. The series includes systems powered by compressed air, electric motors, and diesel engines, offering flexibility depending on your site’s needs.
Portable and Versatile
Most Vacuload systems are portable, featuring fork pockets and retractable legs for easy transport and setup. Whether you need to recover spent abrasive or vacuum blast, these systems are ready to go wherever your project takes you.
Separate Interceptor System
The Interceptor is a unique tool developed by BlastOne to remove abrasive from the vacuum stream before it reaches the vacuum machine. This process removes 90% of the dust, reducing the load on the vacuum unit and extending the life of its cartridges.
Dust Collection Suitable for Lead
The Vacuload systems integrate a high-efficiency dust collector with the vacuum source, ensuring that all contaminated air is filtered before being released into the atmosphere. This makes the system suitable for projects involving hazardous materials like lead.
Low Cost Barrier to Purchase
The Vacuload I, II, and IV models offer a lower purchase price compared to other vacuum systems because they don’t require a large diesel engine. This makes them an economical choice for many blasting operations.
Why use a vacuum system
Vacuload systems are designed to minimize downtime in blasting projects by accelerating the recovery of spent abrasives. Capable of recovering up to 20 tons of material per hour, these systems ensure that your operations stay efficient and productive. The flexibility of Vacuload systems allows seamless transitions between vacuum recovery and blasting, maintaining a clean and safe work environment throughout your project.
Recovering spent abrasive can account for up to 50% of a blasting project’s total cost. With rising labor costs, it’s crucial to increase productivity during the abrasive recovery process. Traditional methods using a shovel and wheelbarrow are no longer efficient. Vacuload vacuum systems, powered by diesel or electric, enable a single operator to recover as much material in one hour as six workers could using manual methods. These systems can handle recovery rates from 5 to 50 tons per hour, with the added benefit of allowing the recovered abrasive to be recycled or disposed of. Additionally, Vacuload systems can transfer new abrasive directly into a storage hopper or blast machine, further streamlining your operations.
THE VERSATILITY OF VACULOAD SYSTEMS
BlastOne’s Vacuload Systems are among the most powerful, versatile, and efficient vacuum systems on the market today. These systems are designed to simplify and enhance on-the-job cleanup, making them an invaluable tool for any blasting project.
By integrating Vacuload systems into your blasting operations, you can streamline processes, reduce downtime, and enhance overall productivity.
Key Benefits
Efficient On-The-Job Cleanup
Say goodbye to the frustration of dealing with leftover abrasive. The Vacuload system dramatically reduces downtime on smaller projects by allowing you to easily dispose of spent abrasive. With the help of a drop-out interceptor, you can quickly and efficiently transfer used abrasive into a bulk bag for simple disposal.
Quick and Easy Blast Pot Loading
Filling a blast pot has never been easier. The Vacuload system is designed to eliminate the time-consuming hassle of loading a six-bag blast pot from a bulk bag. With a specially designed drop-out lid, you can connect your Vacuload system to the blast pot and have it filled in just a few minutes.
Seamless Integration with Existing Blasting Equipment
Always wanted to use your existing blasting equipment for vacuum blasting? Now you can. By simply connecting the Vacuload system with a vacuum blast work-head, you can start blasting with your current equipment without any additional setup.
Environmentally Friendly Abrasive Recycling
Vacuload systems also support sustainability and profitability by making it easy to recycle your abrasive. When vacuuming dry abrasive, the system allows you to use an interceptor drop-out hopper to feed into your MK3 recycling unit. You can then feed the recycled abrasive back into your storage hopper or directly into your blast pot, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency.
Common issues with vacuum reclamation
Three problems can cause issues with vacuum abrasive recovery – excessive hose length, “choking” of the hose and or pick-up tools and slow recovery when abrasive is spread out thinly. As with any pipe or hose, the further a material is collected in it from a vacuum source, less energy is available to convey it. When setting up a vacuum recovery task, make sure that the machine is a close as possible to where the spent abrasive is being recovered from. As the venturi principle uses incoming air to convey a material it stands to reason that if air can’t get into hose then material conveying will be severely restricted. This can happen with abrasive recovery if the hose or tool is pushed deeply into a pile of abrasive, restricting airflow. Vacuum abrasive recovery is also very slow when the abrasive is spread thinly out over a flat surface. In this either push the abrasive into a pile with blade or use a mechanical sweeper.
Important considerations when choosing a vacuum system
Hose Length and Choking: Excessive hose length can reduce conveying efficiency. Keep the vacuum machine close to the recovery point, and avoid pushing the hose too deeply into abrasive piles to maintain airflow.
Thinly Spread Abrasive: Recovery is slow when abrasive is spread thinly over a surface. Push the abrasive into a pile or use a mechanical sweeper to expedite the process.
Compressed Air Availability: Ensure sufficient compressed air supply, as most systems require additional air beyond what’s used for blasting.
For more information or to discuss the best Vacuload system for your project, contact our team today. We’re here to help you choose the most efficient and cost-effective abrasive recovery solution.
Tired of shocks?
Upgrade to CopperVac Premium Vacuum Hose – heavy duty, extra thick abrasion-resistant vacuum hose designed for highly abrasive media recovery.
Selecting the correct vacuum hose size is crucial for optimal cleaning performance and longevity. The diameter of your vacuum hose directly impacts suction power, airflow, and overall cleaning efficiency. Our handy chart below outlines the ideal hose sizes for various vacuum types, ensuring you make an informed decision and achieve a spotless clean every time.
For abrasive blasting, the typical rate we want to move the particles is between 3500-4500 LFM. This free calculator can help you calculate the air flow needed in a circular ducting.
Choosing the Right Vacuum Hose Size: A Quick Guide
Between 350 to 900 cfm for Vacuload I and IV, ideally a separate compressor to the one used for the blast pot. Vacuload VI and VII have an on-board compressor for pulsing the dust collector and recovery vacuum is created by an on-board blower.
How close does the vacuum need to be to the collection point?
The closer you can get the vacuum to the collection point. Anything more than 2 or 3 200′ lengths of vacuum hose should be avoided.
Does the spent abrasive collect in away that aids efficient disposal/reuse?
Commonly 3 options are available for collecting the spent abrasive – into a 44 gal. drum, into a bulk bag and directly into the blast pot.
How easy are Vacuload 6 and 8 units to tow?
They are designed for yard towing only, not highway towing. They have a low center of gravity for stability while being maneuvered.
What size vacuum hose does a Vacuload take?
Vacuload I – 3″
Vacuload IV – 4 to 6″
Vacuload VI – 4 to 6″
Vacuload VII – 4 to 6″
How much fuel do the diesel units consume in an hour?
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