Challenge
Aerospace manufacturers required a compact and precise cleaning solution capable of removing contaminants from jet engine blades and veins prior to assembly or further processing. These components demand consistent, repeatable cleaning to meet strict aerospace quality standards while fitting into a robotic work cell environment. The system also needed to handle delicate parts without complex handling while ensuring spray coverage, effective drying, and reliable removal of oils and particulates. Achieving high cleaning performance within a small footprint, while maintaining durability and process control, presented a key design challenge.
Approach
Better Engineering developed the RTO-2000, a compact single-chamber spray wash system designed specifically for integration with robotic work cells. The system uses a 12-inch diameter turntable with a 12-inch working height and a 50-lb capacity to position each component centrally so that spray and dry nozzles consistently reach all surfaces. Custom fixtures securely hold one part per cycle, ensuring proper orientation and repeatable cleaning. The cleaning chamber features a powered vertical door and includes a 100-gallon tank, dual oil skimmers, particle filtration, automatic water level controls, and a steam exhaust fan. Wetted components are constructed from 304 stainless steel for durability and corrosion resistance, providing a robust platform for precision cleaning operations.
Results
The RTO-2000 delivered reliable and repeatable cleaning performance for aerospace components while maintaining a compact system footprint suitable for robotic integration. The turntable design ensured consistent exposure to spray and drying stages, improving cleaning uniformity across complex part geometries. Integrated oil skimming, filtration, and automated water management helped maintain solution quality and extend system uptime. The result was an efficient, easy-to-operate cleaning process capable of meeting the demanding cleanliness requirements associated with critical jet engine components.
Conclusion
The RTO-2000 demonstrates how a compact automated cleaning system can deliver precision and reliability for aerospace manufacturing environments. By combining controlled part positioning, robust stainless steel construction, and integrated fluid management features, the system provides consistent cleaning and drying performance within a small footprint. Its tailored design allows it to integrate seamlessly into robotic work cells while maintaining the durability and process stability required for critical component cleaning applications.
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