Abstract: A method of testing workpieces and an automated oscillating solution spray manifold assembly for a corrosion testing chamber is configured to introduce a fluid into a cavity of a test cabinet that receives workpieces. The manifold assembly includes a motor having an output shaft for driving a linkage assembly. An elongated spray bar is connected to the linkage assembly and the spray bar has a plurality of openings spaced therealong. The linkage assembly is configured to rotate the spray bar in a desired oscillatory movement such that fluid can be dispensed through the openings and into the test cabinet. A fan-like pattern sprays from one opening and substantially overlaps with spray from at least one adjacent opening. The method of testing may include one or more of the steps of controlling a speed of the motor, a temperature level of the cavity, a humidity level of the cavity, and a salinity content of the fluid within the cavity of the test cabinet.

Abstract: A method of testing workpieces and an automated oscillating solution spray manifold assembly for a corrosion testing chamber is configured to introduce a fluid into a cavity of a test cabinet that receives workpieces. The manifold assembly includes a motor having an output shaft for driving a linkage assembly. An elongated spray bar is connected to the linkage assembly and the spray bar has a plurality of openings spaced therealong. The linkage assembly is configured to rotate the spray bar in a desired oscillatory movement such that fluid can be dispensed through the openings and into the test cabinet. A fan-like pattern sprays from one opening and substantially overlaps with spray from at least one adjacent opening. The method of testing may include one or more of the steps of controlling a speed of the motor, a temperature level of the cavity, a humidity level of the cavity, and a salinity content of the fluid within the cavity of the test cabinet.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling the level of relative humidity within a corrosion test apparatus is disclosed. The corrosion test apparatus includes a testing chamber, an atomizer which fogs the testing chamber with de-ionized water, a sensor which senses a relative humidity level within the testing chamber, a humidifying valve coupled to the atomizer which regulates a supply of pressurized air to the atomizer, and a controller coupled to the sensor and to the humidifying valve. The controller includes a heating control loop mechanism which generates an output signal proportional to a differential between a relative humidity set point and the relative humidity level. The humidifying valve regulates the supply of operating medium to the atomizer based on the output signal. The atomizer regulates the amount of operating liquid fogged into the test chamber based on the supply of operating medium received from the humidifying valve.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling the level of relative humidity within a corrosion test apparatus is disclosed. The corrosion test apparatus includes a testing chamber, an atomizer which fogs the testing chamber with de-ionized water, a sensor which senses a relative humidity level within the testing chamber, a humidifying valve coupled to the atomizer which regulates a supply of pressurized air to the atomizer, and a controller coupled to the sensor and to the humidifying valve. The controller includes a heating control loop mechanism which generates an output signal proportional to a differential between a relative humidity set point and the relative humidity level. The humidifying valve regulates the supply of operating medium to the atomizer based on the output signal. The atomizer regulates the amount of operating liquid fogged into the test chamber based on the supply of operating medium received from the humidifying valve.

Abstract: A rotatable barrel assembly, generally referred to as a metal finishing barrel, includes a latch assembly that selectively secures or latches the door during a portion of the barrel rotation. In a preferred arrangement, a latch member of the assembly is weighted so that a latch finger prevents movement of the door from its open position. As rotation of the barrel continues, the weighted latch member then pivots to a second position where the door is free to open and allow unloading of the contents of the barrel.

Abstract: A rotatable container assembly for use in surface treatment of particulate workpieces includes a container having opposed head ends and a side member defining a work cavity therein. An aperture is formed in a minor portion of the side member and a door arranged for opening and closing relation with the aperture. Means for imparting generally arcuate movement and generally radial movement advances and retracts the door between open and closed positions. Preferably, the movement imparting means includes a cam slot and cam follower arranged between a driven gear and a closely adjacent end plate. Push blocks assist in selective rotation of the container both relative to and with the door. Plural locking slots are arranged on the periphery of the end plate for operative engagement with a lock member extending from the gear.

Abstract: A rotatable container assembly for use in surface treatment of particulate workpieces includes a container having opposed head ends and a side member defining a work cavity therein. An aperture is formed in a minor portion of the side member and a door arranged for opening and closing relation with the aperture. Means for imparting generally arcuate movement and generally radial movement advances and retracts the door between open and closed positions. Preferably, the movement imparting means includes a cam slot and cam follower arranged between a driven gear and a closely adjacent end plate. Push blocks assist in selective rotation of the container both relative to and with the door. Plural locking slots are arranged on the periphery of the end plate for operative engagement with a lock member extending from the gear.

Abstract: A hanger bracket for supporting a rotatable barrel within a fluid treatment tank, which bracket is in turn mounted on a support frame. A metal strip is sealed within the plastic hanger bracket in fluid tight arrangement to strengthen the bracket against bending and twisting. The bracket itself is curved inwardly from its connection to the frame toward its connection with the barrel to compensate for changes in the length of the barrel due to thermal expansion and contraction when the barrel is moved from one environment to another.