The Tosca shot blasting machines used in the automotive sector are:
- TS-MC Monorail / continuous hook shot blasting machines: The TS-MC monorail systems are designed for high-productivity treatment of suspended workpieces. The hooks are moved by a motorised overhead conveyor. Safety is guaranteed by a door that closes the turbine compartments when the doors are opened to move the hooks, thus optimizing downtime. They offer customizable options such as speed inverters, automatic shot separation, servo-controlled valves, and automatic shot reloading.
- Shotblasting machines with conveyor belt in rubber and steel: Designed to guarantee high production at low cost for small and medium-sized components in the automotive sector, with intermittent loads, these shot blasting machines are ideal for treating heat-treated parts, cast iron and brass castings, even with large burrs. A specific version with a double magnetic drum is perfect for desanding.
How does shot blasting work in the automotive industry?
Shot blasting in the automotive industry is not just a cleaning process, but a strategic treatment that improves the quality, reliability and performance of vehicles, making each component more resistant and durable, both from a technical and aesthetic point of view.
Shot blasting in the automotive industry: what it is and how it works
In the automotive industry, shot blasting is a fundamental treatment for improving the performance, aesthetics and durability of a vehicle's metal components. The process consists of centrifugal projection of abrasive media (shot) at high speed against the surface of a workpiece, with the aim of:
- Removing impurities (rust, scale, machining residues)
- Prepare the surface for protective coatings (paints, galvanising, anti-corrosion treatments)
- Strengthen the material through shot peening, increasing its resistance to mechanical fatigue
Components treated in automotive shot blasting
The main elements subjected to shot blasting in the automotive sector are:
- Brake discs and drums
- Alloy wheels
- Suspensions, arms and shock absorbers
- Engine components (blocks, heads, shafts)
- Frames, axles and structural parts
- Springs, gears and transmission components
Technologies and systems used
Depending on the shape, weight and function of the parts to be treated, different systems are used:
- Shotblasting machines with conveyor belt in rubber and steel for small loose parts
- Hook shotblasting machines for suspended components (e.g. suspension arms)
- Roller shotblasting machines for treating large frames or sheets
- Automatic blast cabinets with turbines or compressed air for high-precision processing
Shot peening: improving mechanical strength
One of the most important applications is shot peening, a variant of shot blasting in which spherical particles are used to induce residual compressive stresses on the metal surface. This treatment:
- Increases the fatigue strength of components
- Reduces the risk of cracks and premature breakage
- Significantly extends the life of springs, shafts, gears and other dynamic parts
Automation, traceability and Industry 4.0
Modern shot blasting machines for the automotive sector are designed to be highly automated and compatible with Industry 4.0 requirements:
- Real-time monitoring of the work cycle
- Remote diagnostics and maintenance
- Integration with robotised production lines
Key benefits for the automotive industry
- Perfectly clean and adherent surfaces
- Improved aesthetic quality of components
- Increased vehicle safety and durability
- Reduced maintenance costs thanks to greater material resistance
How is a shot blasting test carried out?
We present an exclusive service in Italy for customers and industry professionals who wish to verify the effectiveness of shot blasting machines directly on products and semi-finished goods.
Book your test directly on SBT / TDG SERVICE shot blasting test page of our website.
How to request the TDG Service?
To request the TDG Service, fill out the form on our website and click on "Book". One of our technicians will contact you immediately to define the technical specifications and explain how to ship or deliver the part. After technical analysis by our engineers, customer service will schedule an appointment at our facility. On that occasion, you will be able to witness the treatment and evaluate its quality together with our experts.
TOSCA: industrial shot blasting at the service of your productivity
Contact us for a personalised consultation and find out how we can improve your processes with cutting-edge technology: request a no-obligation quote. Do not hesitate to contact us at this email address: commerciale@tosca-srl.com.