Proper alignment of all components is essential for the optimal performance and longevity of a Bristle Blaster® machine. One component that is often overlooked, but plays a critical role in machine efficiency, is the Accelerator Bar Mount. When this part becomes bent or deformed—such as with Accelerator Bar Mount article 37008—it can have a significant negative impact on machine operation.
What Is the Accelerator Bar Mount?
The Accelerator Bar Mount holds the accelerator bar in the correct position relative to the rotating brush. Its function is to ensure that the bristle tips strike the surface at the correct angle and with consistent kinetic energy. This precise geometry is what allows the Bristle Blaster to replicate the effect of grit blasting.
What Happens When the Accelerator Bar Mount Is Bent?
A curved or bent accelerator bar mount disrupts this geometry and leads to several mechanical and performance issues:
1. Increased Mechanical Resistance
When the mount is bent, the accelerator bar no longer sits straight. This causes uneven contact between the accelerator bar and the brush, creating additional resistance. As a result, the machine has to work harder to maintain rotation.
2. Heavy Machine Operation
Due to the increased resistance, the Bristle Blaster will start to run heavy. Operators may notice:
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Reduced RPM
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Increased vibration
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Higher motor load
- Extensive wear of Bristle Blaster belts
Over time, this additional strain can accelerate wear on internal components and reduce the overall service life of the machine.
3. Misalignment of the Accelerator Bar
A bent mount causes the accelerator bar to sit at an angle. This misalignment leads to uneven energy transfer to the bristles, reducing cleaning efficiency and causing inconsistent surface profiles.
4. Increased Brush Wear
Because the accelerator bar is no longer evenly positioned, certain sections of the brush experience more pressure than others. This results in uneven and accelerated brush wear, increasing operating costs.
Why Timely Replacement Is Important
Continuing to operate a Bristle Blaster with a bent accelerator bar mount can lead to:
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Reduced surface preparation quality
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Increased power consumption
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Premature failure of brushes and bearings
Replacing a damaged accelerator bar mount (such as article 37008) is a relatively simple and cost-effective way to restore correct alignment, reduce resistance, and ensure peak machine performance.
Conclusion
A bent accelerator bar mount may seem like a minor issue, but it has a major impact on how your Bristle Blaster performs. If your machine is running heavy or you notice uneven brush wear, inspecting the accelerator bar mount should be one of the first steps in troubleshooting.
