Advanced Low-Noise Nozzles

ABSTRACT:The overall objective of this Phase II effort is to build upon the work successfully completed in Phase I by developing and demonstrating two prototype abrasive blast nozzles in a relevant operating environment consistent with AF Technical Order TO 1-1-8, and developing a feasible pilot manufacturing plan for the nozzles.Both nozzles shall be designed for the purpose of mitigating hazardous occupational exposure to blasting noise; one nozzle shall reduce nozzle sound emissions for manual operations, the other nozzle will increase robotic productivity to speed robotic stripping cell throughput and further relieve the burden shouldered by human operators by removing them from the hazardous blasting environment.An Engineering Development Plan (EDP) will be developed for the two nozzles, each developed to TRL5 during the Phase II effort, sufficient to demonstrate the ability to provide a viable pilot manufacturing line in accordance with MRL5.BENEFIT:The findings of this research will benefit the Air Force (USAF), the DoD and, ultimately, the non-defense industrial base (NDIB) by developing methods and practices to significantly mitigate hazardous noise generated by abrasive media blasting operations. Blast cleaning operations are widespread throughout all DoD components, and therefore all share the monumental financial burden of compensating veterans for hearing-related disabilities sustained on the job.