CLOVER, SC — Huffman Corporation was awarded a patent for a "method and apparatus for removing coatings from a substrate using multiple sequential steps" on June 9, 2009.
This patent relates to a method and apparatus for removing a coating having an irregular surface configuration, and using the mapping determination in controlling the operation of an abrasive water jet to provide increased material removal rates at the higher points in the irregular surface and decreased material rates at the lower points, and thereby even out the surface configuration of the coating. The method and apparatus also includes using a detection device for detecting the presence or absence of an element that is unique to a layer of a coating, and using the detection determination in controlling the operation of the abrasive water jet to stop material removal of the coating when the detection device determines there is an absence of the unique element.
This methodology also provides an environmentally friendly way to removal coatings and extend part life, as there is no heat damage or intergranular attack.
For more information visit www.huffmancorp.com.
