Prototype Mineral Abrasive Reclaimer: Shipyard Operation

Abstract

Reclamation of spent mineral abrasives is a new concept for shipyards. There is considerable value retained in spent abrasives, particularly with today's escalating procurement and disposal costs. The cost effectiveness of reclaiming abrasives in some operations is further enhanced in the jurisdictions where the spent material is classified as a hazardous waste. The reclaim potential of abrasives is discussed, along with a quality comparison for reclaimed vs. virgin abrasive. A prototype reclaimer is in operation at Bethlehem Steel, Sparrows Point Shipyard, under the auspices of the National Shipbuilding Research Program. The unit is described, and the operations data presented in this report, are the result of that effort. The abrasive reclaimer operational costs and payoff are discussed, along with a review of design criteria. In conclusion, abrasive reclamation is extremely cost effective, and produces a superior product. A state-of-the-art reclaimer system is available to accomplish this task effectively.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 01, 1987
Accession Number
ADA444175

Entities

People

  • J. W. Peart

Organizations

  • National Steel and Shipbuilding Company

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abrasive Blasting
  • Abrasives
  • Beds (Process Engineering)
  • Cost Estimates
  • Economic Analysis
  • Economics
  • Engineers
  • Environmental Protection
  • Fabrication
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Hazardous Waste
  • Preventive Maintenance
  • Production
  • Prototypes
  • Recycled Materials
  • Shipyards
  • Toxicity

Readers

  • Environmental Engineering.
  • Naval Engineering and Maritime Security
  • Systems Analysis and Design