Case Study: Vitamin Manufacturer Takes Double Dose of Dust Collectors and Safety Precautions

Some would say that two identical dust collection systems on a single, centralized vacuum system is redundant, redundant. One vitamin manufacturer who wanted non-stop dust collection on a '24/7' basis would agree! But he'll also tell you that he replaced 10 small dust collectors of different types that were scattered throughout his manufacturing plant, resulting in filter inventory, maintenance and dust disposal that were time consuming and complicated.

In addition, this installation is user-friendly and safer for his employees. An OSHA compliant railed service platform and caged ladder between the two collectors gives his crews easy access and keep his workers safe during filter change-out. Since the dusts being captured are potentially combustible, a chemical suppression system for fire protection, as well as explosion vents in the collector were installed. Read more and view photos of this case study here.

Dust/Fume Collectors for Laser/Plasma Cutting

CNC plasma tables and laser tables generate molten metal and smoke that is pulled down through the grate. The smoke is then removed through the duct work and filtered through the dust collector.

In these applications, a channel baffle inlet should be used to help deflect any sparks that make it to the collector. For safety, spark detection and suppression should be considered in extreme cases. Fire retardant cartridges should always be used in this application, as well as sprinkler heads in the collector itself.

Explosion vents should also be included when cutting aluminum. The collector should be located outside. It is best to check with your insurance carrier and follow the NFPA 654 Standard for the Prevention of Fire and Dust Explosions from the Manufacturing, Processing and Handling of Combustible Particle Solids. Continue reading here...