Rotary Washers

Rotary Washers

Rotary washers are parts washing systems that tumble high volumes of small parts through a rotating drum that washes, rinses and dries them in a linear, continuous cycle. The parts travel through a spiral conveyor on the inner wall that moves them in a circular motion in order to clean all sides. High volumes of small parts, usually made of metal like nuts, bolts, fasteners, billets, pipe fittings, scrap metal, stampings, fittings and chain links, as well as some plastic parts are washed through these systems. Many part sizes and geometries are able to be fully cleaned, including parts with deep blind holes, external threading or delicate designs. Rotary washers are ideal for cleaning large drums, usually 55 gallons and made of metal or plastic, because the inside is cleaned easily by dual spray and immersion systems that work in conjunction with the spiraling action. The wash and rinse stages remove grime like dirt, oil, coolants and grease from the parts. Other stages in rotary washers may include phosphating and rust-inhibiting. Most rotary washers' final stage is the drying system, which removes moisture from the parts by blasting hot air.

Rotary washers are equipped with many high-powered nozzles, made of stainless steel, of both water and a cleaning solution. They are alternatives to spray washers and agitating parts washers, but incorporate spray and immersion systems into the rotating tumble system. They are able to handle high volumes of small parts and often work in conjunction with load and exit conveyors. Most rotary washers are fully automated and work in a linear movement. They are heated by gas, electricity or steam and have variable frequency speed and temperature controls. Rotary washer tanks are stainless steel and usually anywhere from 12 to 72 inches in diameter; many manufacturers offer custom sizes. The dryer system blasts hot air, about 100º to 120º F at high pressure. Rotary washers are often components of continuous feeding and inline processing conveyor systems attached to screw, cold heading, die casting and grinding machines. Rotary washers that aren't attached to other industrial processes are considered batch fed, meaning large quantities are loaded into the washers at one time.