Artifact Preservation - I Want One!

[ScubaFinder]

Had to photograph a new process we developed here at work. It's a coating removal system that uses electrolytic reduction (just like we use for artifacts) and then electro-plating to replace the coating. The reason I'm posting the pics is because the setup would make a great coin preservation system as well. I'm gearing up to build my own system, and got some great ideas from this, so I thought I'd share.

The machine:


The bath, it has a circulation and filtration system built in.


Parts on the rack, 24 peices per rack electrified by a single source that is distributed to each piece through the rack itself.


Testing Connections


Loaded rack in solution being connected.


Oh yeah, and did I mention it has an X-Ray machine to go along with it...I feel some late nights coming on...in the wrong department


I wonder if they would miss this if I took it home...can I borrow a truck.

Jason

[Salvor6]

Hey Jason,
those look like jet aircraft engine turbine blades. Am I right? If so, what are you coating them with? Carbide? I used to make those blades and then we sent them to Union Carbide for plasma spray coating.

[RON (PA)]

Cool Machines. Can I have one too Maybe if we all pitch in, we can get one and keep it at Marc's or Jeff's house.

[ScubaFinder]

You are correct Pete, they are turbine blades. These are in for Platinum Aluminide coating, but we do plasma spray here as well. The final solution of this bath is $20,000 per 5 gallon bucket!!! Maybe hanging out in there after hours isn't a good idea afterall

J

[SEAHUNTER]

That is the best. Any idea where I could pick up one of those x-ray machines? Maybe a surplus one or at a garage sale. And while you are at it a set of blueprints and a parts list for the machine would make a great addition to my collection. Maybe you could open a branch office in Jupiter and I could just visit after hours and hang out and play with your toys.
Seahunter

[ScubaFinder]

Scott, I'm trying to find one myself! One of our engineers sourced the X-Ray machine (XRF-80 I think) and claims it was under $7K (?!?), I'll forward the info on to you when I get it. Next year we'll be pulling up so many coins that we'll need the big electrolosis machine...and I guess we could gold plate the trash with it too!

I see you are working in a little deeper water than normal today. I hope the sea is a little more cooperative than yesterday...good luck!

Jason

[FISHEYE]

Seahunter,

I have a working dental xray system in my shop,plus enough film and chemicals to last me several years