Types of Welding Dedusting Equipment
Welding and metalworking activities like laser cutting, plasma cutting, and grinding release harmful dust, fumes, and smoke into the air. These airborne contaminants must be continuously filtered to provide your skilled welding team with clean, healthy working conditions.
To do so, you need the right dedusting equipment. Learn about the various types of welding industrial dust collectors available.
Localized Extraction Units
Local extraction during welding is the preferred method when it comes to occupational safety. It ensures that fumes are detected right at the source and offers the greatest chance of achieving high extraction rates. However, not all welding systems are created equal when it comes to this type of equipment.
For example, there are many welding torch manufacturers who offer a range of different extraction systems with an extractor nozzle at the end of the torch. The choice often comes down to the fact that some systems are easier to operate and are more practical than others. However, it is important to note that the ability of a system to detect welding fumes in direct contact depends on the design of its cable assembly. It is essential that the fume hoses have an outer diameter and that they do not contain any restriction inside that would prevent a laminar and turbulence-free air flow to the extraction nozzle.
In addition to the safety aspect, this type of welding fume and dust extraction also has a number of other benefits. For one, it protects the machine and extends its service life. This minimizes repair costs and downtime, which in turn allows the company to maintain a consistent workflow and meet deadlines. It also prevents welding dedusting equipment harmful substances from escaping into the environment and contributing to environmental pollution – for example, hexavalent chrome which is found in stainless steel and can be carcinogenic if inhaled.
Centralized Extraction Systems
When large quantities of welding fumes or cutting dust are generated, centralized extraction systems are the state-of-the-art solution. They consist of an extractor unit placed in a central location with a duct system that routes through the workplace connecting to multiple extraction arms at workstations. They are ideal for facilities with high levels of production and many welding stations.
A centralized extraction system works by pulling air away from the emission source with vacuum and transporting the contaminants through the workshop’s duct network to a filter. There they are filtered to remove fine particles, gases and odors. The clean air can then be recirculated back into the workspace or vented outside.
The centralized system also simplifies waste disposal because all the collected material is collected in one place instead of being collected at different points throughout the facility. This makes it easier to manage the ductwork and make adjustments as your facility’s needs change over time. It also reduces maintenance costs because all the equipment is in one place for inspection, cleaning and repair. If you are considering adding new welding stations, a centralized system is a good choice because it will save you the cost of ductwork and installation. If your facility only produces a modest amount of welding fumes, individual collectors like RoboVent’s Spire units can still be a cost-effective solution.
Cartridge Dust and Fume Collection Systems
Many industrial applications generate large volumes of dust, smoke and fumes. Various types of collection systems capture and remove these contaminants to reduce worker health risks and maintain production efficiency. Whether working with plasma cutting, welding, woodworking or other industrial processes, dust collection is a critical safety and productivity concern.
A cartridge-based system is the simplest way to filter air and collect particulates for waste management. These systems feature cylindrical filtering filters lined with pleated media that are open at both ends, allowing air to flow in through the front and out of the back. Air is pulled through the filters by a blower or fan, with particulate falling off the inside of the filter and dropping into an internal hopper for disposal.
These types of systems are ideal for laser and plasma cutting, woodworking and other processes that produce fine dust and smoke. They are not well suited for applications that require a high volume of airflow or a large particle load, and can be welding dedusting equipment manufacturer prone to clogging with tacky or sticky particulates, which can impact performance and pose safety concerns.
Cartridge filters are usually changed out on a regular basis for optimum operation. This ensures that air flows smoothly through the filter and catches the finest particles, rather than pushing them past the filter and into the atmosphere. Regular filter change-outs also lower maintenance costs and lead time for the system.
Fume Extractor
The most advanced fume extraction systems are mobile and positioned directly at the welding torch. This allows for optimum protection by removing the harmful particles at their source. This type of extraction system is ideal for welding with metals such as stainless steel, which create very hazardous fumes. Hexavalent chrome (usually referred to as Cr-VI) is one of the most harmful substances, and these fumes need to be extracted and disposed of in line with strict requirements.
The fumes and dust are drawn into the extraction unit, where they go through a filtering process that separates them from the clean air. Sparks are also captured and filtered away through gravity filters and/or spark arresters. This results in a clean and healthy working environment for your team.
Ensure that the fume extractor is working properly by checking its suction regularly. The motor brushes that drive the unit are also worth keeping an eye on and replacing when necessary. In addition, check the hoses and connections to make sure they are not clogged or damaged.
Taking proactive steps like installing welding dedusting equipment in your plant helps to improve the health and safety of your team. Employees are happier and more focused when they work in a clean atmosphere, which leads to increased productivity and reinforces your company’s reputation as an employer who cares about their wellbeing.