Importance

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Abstract

Methods and apparatus for removing swarf from machined components are described, in which a component is mounted on support means and the latter is vibrated in a manner to cause the component to be accelerated alternately in one direction and then the other, for a period of time. The acceleration is such as to cause the component to momentarily lift off the support means during at least part of each of the vibrations so as to bounce repetitively on the support means. The latter includes fingers adapted to engage non-critical regions of the components to reduce damage to machined surfaces or distortion of the machined component during vibration. A fluid flushing may precede and/or follow the vibration step. Apparatus for performing the method comprises a table with vibratory drive means fingers upstanding from the table to engage the underside (or apertures in the underside of) a machined component, transfer means for moving a machined component onto the fingers and for moving the component from the fingers after the vibration step, and control means for controlling the operation of the vibratory drive. The apparatus may be in addition to, or form part of, a process line along which machined components progress.

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First Claim