When you determine that you are in need of a dust, fume, or mist collection system, it makes sense to consult a professional prior to making what may be an extra costly investment. Different types of material require different types of collectors, conveying velocities, and static requirements based on your required duct, etc. If you find and purchase a used collector on a bid site, because the price was “Just too good to pass up”, and then contact someone to install the system, you may find that you just invested thousands of dollars in a large, used, paperweight. If the collector you purchased is too small, you won’t collect what you need to collect. If the collector you purchased is too large, you may end up collecting the duct rather than the dust, fume, or mist. Yes, the collector and the duct need to work together (it’s a system). If the duct is not as strong as the collector, you may end up with the soda can effect. A large collector capable of a large amount of CFM as well as static pressure, may implode your duct if it’s not paired properly.
Generally speaking, your collection demands are your collection demands. Collection systems are designed based on the demands created by your production process.
If you purchase a used collector from a bid site, (because of the “good price”) which is capable of 4000CFM at 4” of static pressure, and you find through the process of design building, that you actually need 8000CFM at 8” of static pressure, (if your mechanical contractor knows collection) you have two choices. Buy a few more used collectors, if you can find enough to fit your needs, investing thousands of dollars in used equipment (which carry no warranty), or trying to sell your paperweight (you will not get what you gave for it) and purchasing a new, properly sized, warranty laden collector. This will leave you in the hole, having learned a costly, yet valuable lesson. There is a proper collector for every application. The key is figuring out what the proper collector is, which is where the professional comes in.
A professional is in the business and knows how to determine, (based on your process emissions), what collector, duct, and associated accessories you will need.
So save , some time, money, and headaches. When the time comes, before you make a move, consult a professional.
Always consult your governing authority for local codes, which may include local fire codes. Remember, some emissions are combustible, which adds a whole different aspect to what you need for collection.
Sincerely,
Metal Masters Mechanical
