BLUEBIRD 425,440 Studio Pugmills Instruction Manual

September 2, 2024
BlueBird

BLUEBIRD 425,440 Studio Pugmills Instruction Manual
BLUEBIRD 425,440 Studio Pugmills

Efficient, compact, and portable, the Bluebird Models 425/440 Pugmills offer high quality wedging, reclaiming and extruding capabilities. Either is ideal when quantity of clay to be processed averages 700 lbs per month or less.

Some of the possible applications are:

  1. Economical reclaiming in the classroom or small studio.
  2. A transitional pugmill for the smaller studio or hobby potter.
  3. Test or specialty pugmill for the larger studio.
  4. Power extruder when fitted with owner-made dies.
  5. A means to reduce physical strain of clay preparation.

Model 425 Pugmill
This model performs the basic functions of pugging, reclaiming or extruding. Over the years this unit has successfully met the needs of many classrooms and smaller studios or performed as a specialty pugmill in larger production settings. The majority of users find that the Studio Pugmill reduces hand wedging. Functional construction, ease of operation, and low maintenance are essential features of the 425.

Model 440 Vacuum Pugmill
Several factors have made the option of a vacuum system worthwhile to many purchasers; wide use of commercially deaired clay, varied and exacting fabrication techniques, and time- saving considerations. The Model 440 produces a dense thoroughly deaired clay ready for slab ware, throwing or extruding no additional wedging. Its vacuum system design is the same as that of larger Bluebird Pugmills.

Safety Features

  • On/Off switch
  • Instructional ‘CAUTION’ sign
  • Clay press fully covers hopper-can be locked with provided padlock
  • Totally enclosed drive components • Complete operating and maintenance instructions included

Safety in design, operation and maintenance is a continuing goal in all Bluebird clay equipment. Please remember that safety is a matter of common sense and begins with thorough understanding of machines and proper operating procedures. Any machine is only as safe as the manner in which it is used.

Maintenance

None for life of gear motor. Periodic cleaning, check flexible coupling and bearings for wear, lubricate front bearing, bolts and screws for tightness, Model 440 only check rod and cam for wear. Owner’s manual includes detailed maintenance instructions.

Extruding

Solid extrusions are possible with standard nozzle and owner- made dies. Hollow extrusions require a 4-1/4″ round nozzle and internal die holder accessory. Manual includes instructions for die-making and using the equipment as an extruder.

Personalised Customer Service

Customer service begins with trying to make sure you buy the piece of equipment which best suits your needs. It continues with complete operation and maintenance instructions as well as technical assistance. Customer

follow up, service bulletins and same day shipment on “in stock” replacement parts make Bluebird equipment a bargain long after the sale Most major credit cards accepted.

Guarantee

We guarantee to replace or repair any part which is defective in material or in workmanship for a period of one (1) year from date of purchase.

If the fault is ours, we will make good even if it means sending you a completely new machine or having you return the machine, parts or attachments for examination and repair. (Shipping costs are customer’s responsibility.)
Drive train and electrical components are guaranteed by their respective manufacturers for a period of one (1) year from date of purchase. Should trouble develop with drive train or electrical components, we will help you locate the nearest authorized service center. Repairs made by other than authorized service dealers will void the manufacturer’s guarantee.

Models 425 & 440

GENERAL INFORMATION

Overall Dimensions

  • Height 8-1/2″ (21 cm)
  • Length 40″ (101 cm)
  • Width 8-1/2″ (21 cm)
  • Handle 14″ (35 cm)
  • Extrusion Diameter 3″ (7 cm)
  • Hopper Opening 5″ x 5″ (12 cm x 12 cm)

Finish
Powder coated-not barrel
Output
Wedging-up to 400 lbs. / hr.
Reclaiming-up to 200 lbs./hr.
Installation
Horizontally on a bench (425 & 440)

CONSTRUCTION

Barrel
5/16″ thick one-piece cast Aluminum
Shaft & Blades
Stainless blades, shaft and internal rotating shredder
Housing
16 gauge steel protects gear motor
Bearing
Relocatable front bearing
Permanently sealed rear bearing

GEAR MOTOR Description

  • Totally enclosed. Fan-cooled
  • Plugs into any 115 Volt grounded receptacle
  • Efficient torque and friction characteristics, yielding more power than some 3/4 HP motor- gear reduction systems
  • Full one (1) year warranty

Mounting
Integral with gear-reducer
Switch
Motor rated

Specifications **

**

  • 1/3 HP (.25 kw)
  • 115 Volts, single phase.
  • 5.3 Amps, 60 Hz
  • Heavy duty.
  • Class A continuous duty
  • 40° C ambient 1.0 serivce factor
  • Hardened steel pinion
  • High speed helical gears
  • Low speed spur gears

AVAILABLE OPTIONAL SAFETY SWITCH for shutting off pugmill when hopper is opened

Model 440 Vacuum Desiring Components

Vacuum Chamber

  • U.S. Patent #4336910
  • Bolted & sealed on barrel
  • Clear acrylic cover permits monitoring and removal for cleaning
  • Integral vacuum gauge on chamber wall
  • Air release valve

Vacuum Pump

  • 1/12 HP 115
  • Volts, 60 Hz
  • Operated separately from pugmill
  • Pulls up to 24″ Hg.
  • Two-ply diaphragm Aluminum die-cast body
  • Limited one (1) year warranty

SHIPPING Weight & Class

  • Model 425: 85 lbs. (38.6 kg); Class 85
  • Model 440: 112 lbs. (50.9 kg); Class 85.
  • Please contact a local carrier for rates
  • Boxed at no extra charge.

IF YOU NEED CLARIFICATION OR EXPLANATION ON ANY SPECIFICATION, PLEASE

CALL US!

In the interest of providing even better equipment, Bluebird Manufacturing, Inc. reserves the right to make changes in design and specifications without notice or obligation.
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