3-Stage Rotary Drum Washers

The Arnold Machine 3-Stage Rotary Drum Washer is a general-purpose washer suited for high-volume cleaning applications and multiple part sizes and geometries. The machine is ideal for inline production processes where cleaning is required between stages, or for final wash applications.

The machine features a proven design of over 40 years with a stainless-steel drum available in two diameters: 18” and 24”. The cleaning cycle consists of a heated, pressurized wash stage, heated, pressurized rinse stage, and a heated, high-pressure blow-off stage. Stage lengths are configurable based on specific process requirements.

Drum speed is adjustable via the touchscreen and can be programmed into a part-specific recipe.

Custom machine sizes and configurations are also available if needed.

HOW 3-STAGE ROTARY DRUM WASHERS WORK

The 3-Stage Rotary Drum Washer uses a continuous rotational cleaning process for consistent exposure and high-throughput performance:

Loading: Parts are introduced into the rotating stainless steel drum through manual loading or automated/in-line material handling systems.

Stage 1 – Heated Wash: Heated, pressurized wash solution removes oils, debris, and contaminants while drum rotation ensures full surface exposure.

Stage 2 – Heated Rinse: A heated rinse stage removes residual cleaning solution and remaining soil.

Stage 3 – High-Pressure Blow-Off: Heated, high-velocity air removes excess moisture before discharge.

Discharge: Cleaned parts exit the drum ready for downstream processing or final assembly.

COMMON APPLICATIONS

3-Stage Rotary Drum Washers are ideal for high-volume operations requiring continuous cleaning between production stages or before final assembly.

Typical applications include:

  • Stamped metal componentsMachined parts
  • Automotive components
  • Fasteners and hardware
  • General industrial components requiring oil and debris removal

The system is commonly integrated inline between machining, forming, or coating operations.

SPECS & FEATURES

Drum Options

Drum Size (in) 18" 24"
Wash/Rinse Stage Lengths (ft) 4'/6' 4'/6'
Blow-Off Stage Lengths (ft) 4'/6' 4'/6'
Wash/Rinse Tank Capacity (gal) 200 200
Overall Machine Width (ft) 7'6" 8'
Overall Machine Length (ft) 16' - 22' 16' - 22'
Operator Load Height (in) 40" 40"
Blower Capacity (cfm) 700 700

Machine Construction

  • 10ga stainless steel base
  • 2” insulation covered with 16ga polished stainless steel
  • 304 schedule 40 stainless steel plumbing
  • Tank floors pitched to a 2” stainless steel drain valve
  • Integrated lifting lugs

Drum & Process Control

  • Adjustable drum speed via touchscreen
  • Customizable cleaning recipes
  • Bolt-on top panel for drum access
  • Lift-off access covers for chip & debris basket access

Filtration & Fluid Management

  • Stainless steel bag filters (wash & rinse tanks)
  • Stainless steel liquid level float switches
  • Solenoid valve for automatic tank make-up
  • Two 2” NPT tank drains
  • Filter change alert on touchscreen display

Utility Requirements

  • Electrical Supply: 480 VAC – 3 Phase – 60 Hz – 200 AMP or 400 AMP (depending on options)
  • Water Supply: 1” fresh water supply @ 35 PSI

Control System

  • NEMA 12 main control panel with 480V disconnect
  • UL-approved 24 VDC controls package
  • Allen-Bradley CompactLogix PLC
  • Weintek 10” touchscreen control panel

Warranty

  • 1-year parts & labor warranty
  • 10-year limited structural integrity warranty

Optional Upgrades

  • Exhaust Fan
  • Mist Collector
  • 25-gallon Coalescing Oil Removal System (wash and/or rinse tanks)
  • Automatic Chemical Monitoring & Addition
  • Noise Reduction Package
  • Single Point Tank Drain
  • Canadian CSA Certification
  • Remote Diagnostic Access
  • Service Plan Options

TRUST ARNOLD MACHINE WITH YOUR PARTS WASHING NEEDS

Arnold Machine specializes in designing and manufacturing custom parts washers tailored to demanding industrial environments. Whether your application requires inline integration or final wash performance, we deliver durable, efficient systems built for long-term reliability.

3-Stage Rotary Drum Washer FAQS

  • What types of soil loads is this system designed to handle?

  • Can the washer be integrated inline?

  • How do I determine the correct drum size?

  • What maintenance is required?