A system used to enhance the quality of the air produced from industrial and commercial processes is called a dust collector. It works by removing dust and other impurities from the air. Likewise, it can also be used to retrieve valuable solids from being lost in the atmosphere. One of the most vital pieces of machinery in any workshop or factory is a sufficient dust extraction system. It assists in extending machines lifespans as well as the usage and quality of work.
Inertial separators
Inertial separators use a mixture of forces which include centrifugal, gravitational and inertial to part dust from gas streams. Gravity moves the dust into a hopper, where it gets stored temporarily.
There are three types of inertial separators, which include:
Baffle Chambers
A fixed plate in the chamber called a baffle plate, which is placed strategically to make the air change direction. Large particles drop out of the air but the air continues to travel through the system. The dust is collected in the hopper.
Centrifugal Collectors
These collectors separate the dust from a gas stream using cyclonic action. The dust enters the collector on an angle creating a cyclone effect. When the dust hits the walls it then drops and collects in the hopper.
Settling Chambers
A settling chamber is essentially a large box that is installed into the ductwork. It creates a sudden slow down in the air stream due to the larger area which allows the larger particles to settle at the bottom. It requires a lot of space so is rarely used.
Unit Collector
This type of collector manages to control dust at its source. They are usually self-contained and small and are also quite simple in design, usually consisting of a fan and a dust collector. They are suitable for operations that only offer a small space and for small budgets. It is also appropriate for jobs that are isolated or require relocation.
There are two common types of collectors. The first is a fabric collector and it is used for dust collection where the dust is fine. The second most common type is a cyclone collector that is usually used when the dust is coarse.
To be continued…
