Among the various abrasive media separation technologies available today, the cyclonic separator remains one of the simplest, most reliable, and cost-effective solutions for abrasive media recovery and recycling.

Cyclonic separators can be integrated into most sandblasting systems, including sandblast cabinets, automated surface finishing equipment, and pneumatic blast rooms. After impacting the workpiece, the abrasive media and contaminants are conveyed to the cyclonic separator, where reusable media is separated from dust, fines, and process debris generated during blasting.

The cleaned abrasive media is then returned to the blasting system for reuse, while dust and foreign particles are directed to the dust collector for disposal. This continuous recovery process helps maintain blasting efficiency, reduce media consumption, and ensure consistent finishing results.

TYPICAL CYCLONIC SEPARATOR CONFIGURATIONS

Pressure Sandblast Cabinet Suction Sandblast Cabinet Pneumatic Sandblast Booth
Industrial metal Cyclonic Separator with a black cylindrical top, red rectangular accent in the middle, and a funnel-shaped section, all supported by a sturdy black frame with a handle and logo on the base. A black and red cyclonic separator dust unit with a cylindrical top, rectangular middle section, and funnel-shaped base, mounted on a sturdy open metal frame featuring the Kinetico logo. A tall, cylindrical black industrial machine labeled Kresco, designed for blast room operations, with hoses attached at the top and gauges, pipes, and valves on its lower section, stands against a plain white background.

KEY FEATURES

  • Significantly reduces abrasive media consumption and operating costs.
  • Maintains cleaner, more aggressive abrasive media for improved blasting performance.
  • Adjustable airflow allows optimization for various media types and particle sizes.
  • Compatible with both suction and pressure blasting systems.
  • Can be retrofitted to existing sandblast cabinets, including equipment from major manufacturers such as Clemco, Empire Abrasive Equipment, and others.
  • Available in multiple sizes to match the airflow requirements of common blasting systems.
  • Rugged, low-maintenance design with no moving parts in the separation chamber.

HOW THE CYCLONIC SEPARATOR WORKS

The cyclonic separator uses centrifugal force and controlled airflow to separate reusable abrasive media from lighter contaminants.

As the media-contaminant mixture enters the separator, a vortex is created inside the cyclone body. Heavier, reusable abrasive particles are forced outward and downward into the recovery hopper, while lighter dust and fines remain suspended in the airflow and are carried to the dust collection system.

This simple yet highly effective separation method ensures that only clean, reusable abrasive media is returned to the blasting process.

Diagram of a sandblasting dust collector showing airflow from the blast room, separation of dust and debris, large debris trap, and pneumatic media recovery system returning reusable media to the sandblast pot.

OPTIONAL RUBBER LINING PROTECTION

For highly abrasive applications, cyclonic separators can be equipped with an optional rubber lining to maximize service life.

The rubber lining protects the cyclone body from premature wear caused by the continuous flow of abrasive media, reducing maintenance requirements and extending equipment lifespan in demanding industrial environments.

A digital rendering of a cyclonic separator cylindrical mechanical component with its top section removed and floating above, shown with a red downward arrow indicating assembly or insertion.

AVAILABLE CYCLONIC SEPARATOR MODELS

Kresco cyclonic separators are available as standalone recovery units or can be supplied as complete assemblies with a motorized media reclaimer and/or pressurized blast vessel.

Specifications RSB10/RSP10 RSB13/RSP13 RSB16/RSP16 RSB24/RSP24 RSB30/RSP30
Body Diameter 10″ 13″ 16″ 24″ 30″
Air Flow (CFM) 400 CFM 600 CFM 900 CFM 1,200 CFM 1,800 CFM
Overall Dimensions
(L x W x H)
22” x 22” x 74” 22” x 22” x 78” 22” x 22” x 84-½” 22” x 22” x 101” 22” x 22” x 106”
Inlet ID 4″ 4″ / 5″ 5″ / 6″ 6″ / 7″ 7″ / 8″
Outlet ID 4″ 6″ 7″ 8″ 8″
Standard Storage Hopper 1.0 cu. ft.  1.5 cu. ft.

RSB: Cyclonic separator for suction cabinets
RPB: Cyclonic separator for pressure cabinets

NEED HELP SELECTING THE RIGHT CYCLONIC SEPARATOR?

Our specialists can help you choose the optimal model based on your blasting equipment, abrasive media type, airflow requirements, and production volume. Contact us for expert recommendations and application support.