Choice of the correct model of dust collector is integral to any closed blasting system. The removal of airborne particles from the environment of a blast chamber is essential to maintain efficient operation. Savings made by cutting cost at this point will only lead to reduced efficiency, early failure of the system and higher running costs.
Factors to consider whilst choosing a dust collector are:
Correct air speed, the correct airspeed through the blastroom prevents settlement of airborne particles in the work area.
Air flow, the direction in which the air flows through the blast room is critical to the process. Correctly sized and positioned air inlets and extraction duct work ensure that first class ventilation is achieved.
Filtration area, this is the surface area of the filter material within the dust collector. It is essential that the ratio between filtration area and air volume is correct to prevent premature failure of the extraction system.
Dust Extraction
Reverse Pulse
On reverse pulse dust collectors, filter cartridges are cleaned whilst the collector is in operation ensuring the efficiency of the collector is maintained. A short pulse of air causes the dust accumulated on the cartridges to fall into collection bins below at pre-determined intervals keeping the cartridges clean whilst the collector is in operation. Reverse pulse dust collectors can be used with high specification filters on hazardous dust applications and can be operated in conjunction with secondary or HEPA filters for increased efficiency.
Bag Filter
On bag type dust collectors pocket bag filters are used to arrest any airborne dust removed from the process. The retained dust is removed from the filter bag by a short vibration cycle where all material is dislodged which falls into the collection bin. The shake cycle is carried out automatically when the unit is powered down at the end of the shift. Different types of filter material are available for a wide range of applications. The efficiency of our units exceed the requirements of both the EPA and COSHH legislation. The key to low running costs is the extra filter material we use in our collectors which extends the life of the filter and increases the visiblity in your shot blast booth.
Portable Site Dust Collector
The principle of operation on our portable range of site dust collectors is identical to our reverse pulse range of equipment. They differ on our portable range as the units are designed specifically for robust handling on site. The low centre of gravity prevents accidents during movement around site and damage from high winds. These portable units make them ideal for use on bridge maintenance contracts and in shipyard environments. The units are avaiable with secondary HEPA filtration on applications where the hazardous nature of the coating is unknown. Our unit is available rated at 8000 cfm and is fitted with two 14" diameter inlet spigots.
Ducting
Efficient airflow is key to improving visibility inside a blastroom enclosure. Correct ducting design is equally as important as the dust collection equipment. Additionally the use of suitably sized and positioned air inlet ducts allows for a laminar airflow down the booth which ensures that the dust is conveyed to the dust collection plant. Incorrect duct design means that air will stagnate in the blastroom resulting in poor visibility and longer cleaning times. Hodge Clemco incorporates spiral wound ducting, purpose designed for each application. Seamless, flanged and welded ducting is also available on hazardous applications. All Hodge Clemco installations are LEV checked to ensure they conform to the design parameters.
