Woodworking is an age-old craft that breathes life into raw wood and transforms it into beautiful creations. But there is a hidden danger lurking in these workshops: wood dust. Born from the cutting, sanding and shaping of wood are a danger to your employees’ health, productivity and even production equipment.
For many artisans, dust is more than just discomfort — it causes nasal problems (congestion, sinus problems, runny noses) and, worse still, lung cancer in 230 people a year. This is where dust collectors like Purisystems 3-Speed Remote Air Filtration System come into play. They remove dust particles before they settle, ensuring a cleaner, safer production unit. So read on to find out more about the role of dust collectors in the woodworking industry, helping workers to concentrate on their work unhindered.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Dust Collector
1. Dust Properties
One of the first things to consider when choosing an air filtration system for your workshop is the specific properties of the dust produced. These include everything from size and density to abrasiveness and toxicity.
Size
First of all, the size of the dust particles plays an important role in selecting the appropriate filtration method — one that supports effective capture. If the dust generated in your woodworking machine is fine and powdery, you may need to use a cartridge cartridge-type dust collector.
It comes with pleated filters that capture fine particles well and has a pulse cleaning system making short work of cleaning. Conversely, baghouse dust collectors are more suitable if you are dealing with sticky or oily dusts. They use long, tubular fibers to capture sticky particles.
Density
Density is another important factor that influences your decision. This is because bulky and abrasive dust requires a tailored shop dust collector that is durable and efficient for these particles. In addition, woodworking units should take the time to analyze whether the dust produced is hazardous or combustible through relevant laboratory tests.
But why is this important? By knowing the nature of your dust particles, you can choose a solution that maintains safety protocols in the facility while adhering to industry standards. For example, dust that contains corrosive elements such as salt may require modifications to the equipment, such as epoxy coatings, chemical-resistant coatings or the use of stainless steel parts.
2. Dust Type
The nature of the dust one deals with can significantly impact the overall safety and effectiveness of a dust collection system. Thus, it is crucial to consider the specific type of dust being generated in your facility, considering its combustibility and explosiveness. This is because certain types of dust, including wood shavings or fine particles like aluminum powder, are inherently explosive.
When exposed to high temperatures or sparks, these combustible dust particles can lead to an explosion. Therefore, a dust collector equipped with explosion-proof features is a must for these situations, ensuring safety within the working environment.
In addition, the toxicity levels of the dust produced also need to be considered. So, if the resultant dust is infused with hazardous chemicals or substances like asbestos, you may need to install specialized handling and filtration mechanisms. For example, a high-efficiency particulate air filter (HEPA) or a wet scrubber may more efficiently capture and contain such toxic particles.
3. Dust Source
When choosing a dust collector, one needs to consider the origin or source of the dust particles within the production unit. This will help determine the most effective dust collection system, as the location and extent of the dust will have a direct impact on the type of solution required. For example, if the dust in your production unit is only generated from one source, a point source dust collection system may be the best solution for you.
If your operation involves extensive material handling processes where dust is generated from multiple sources, you should opt for a centralized dust collection system. Such systems are ideal for large volumes of air pollutants and ensure comprehensive cleanup and dust-free environments.
4. Dust Collector Size
The size of a dust collector is one of the most essential considerations when choosing an appliance, and it depends on your available space. In smaller shops, you don’t want to sacrifice your limited floor space by installing a dust collector. However, in large manufacturing operations with multiple stationary tools, you may want to install a larger filtration system to effectively capture the dust.
Here are some of the most common sizes of dust collectors:
Small: The ¾ HP dust collector with an airflow rate of 650 CFM is suitable for small workshops and effectively captures dust and debris to keep pollutants out. It is also practical as it can be mounted on the wall so it does not interfere with your tools.
Medium: For medium-sized workshops with limited stationary tools, a dust collector with a 1 HP motor and 700 CFM is a good choice. This size offers a good balance between power and space.
Large: A large dust collector with 1100-1200 CFM and 11/2 HP would be considered for more extensive workshops seeking an interconnected dust collection system for multiple tools. These units can effectively collect large amounts of dust without overtaxing the electrical capacity.
Which Dust Collection System Should You Get: Cyclone Vs. Bag Vs. Table
When deciding on a dust collection system, one crucial factor is the size of the dust collector and its suitability for your specific operational needs. There are three standard dust collection systems: Cyclone, bag and table, each tailored to different situations.
For example, if your production facility deals with large volumes of airborne particles, cyclone dust collectors are right for you. These air filtration systems are most efficient with large particles and debris as they separate heavier particles from the airflow.
If, on the other hand, you frequently have to deal with tiny dust particles, you should opt for a baghouse dust collector. In addition, benchtop dust collectors are the ideal choice for small businesses that need to capture dust directly at the source.
Upgrade Your Workspace Safety: Capture Microscopic Particles with Purisystems’ Dust Collector
Conventional bag, table and cyclone dust collectors are often inadequate when it comes to capturing smaller particles and airborne dust in woodworking or sawing. While seemingly small, these harmful substances may, over time, add to the risk of equipment malfunction and fire hazards over time, emphasizing the importance of a dust collection system that mitigates any dust directly at its source.
But don’t worry, Purisystems has a groundbreaking solution that goes beyond these limitations and sets a new standard for air filtration in workshops. Equipped with a robust filtration system, the Purisystems 3-Speed Remote Air Filtration System features a primary 5-micron outer filter that captures larger dust particles.
Key Features
1. Negative Ions
Puricare 500IG and Puricare 1100IG hanging air filters have a built-in negative ion generator that charges the particles causing them to aggregate. This, in turn, makes the dust particles more easily, resulting in a cleaner and healthier environment.
2. RF Remote Control
The Purisystems 3-Speed Remote Air Filtration System has an integrated RF remote control, setting it apart from conventional infrared (IR) remote controls. With this remote control, you can operate the system from any corner of the room, even when the direct line of sight is obstructed. The extended range allows you to control the device from up to 26 ft away, which is beneficial for both safety and productivity.
3. Double Filter
The air filtration system boasts a double filter. Out of these, the first one traps particles down to 5 microns, ensuring a clean environment so you can carry out your operations without obstacles. The inner filter traps finer particles down to 1 micron as an additional line of defense, making it well-suited for carving, sanding, powder mixing, and other tasks.
4. 3 Speeds
The Purisystems PuriCare 1100 has three speeds — 650, 850 and 1100 CFM (cubic feet per minute). The lowest speed of 650 CFM is ideal for jobs where there is little dust and only gentle cleaning is required, such as woodworking, light sanding or sawing small areas.
The 850 CFM setting offers the best combination of dust extraction and a manageable noise level. So if you need good filter performance without noise pollution, this option is for you. Lastly, the 1100 CFM setting is intended for woodworking tools that perform comparatively heavy-duty work. It produces a solid, circular airflow that catches even the tiniest particulate matter.
5. Portable Build
Thanks to its lightweight construction and easy-grip handles, the Purisystems 3-Speed Remote Air Filtration System makes transporting and relocating the unit easy. The handles are ergonomically shaped and fit comfortably in the hand, while the compact size allows you to attach it to benchtops in no time at all.
6. Timer Settings
With built-in timer settings from 1 to 6 hours, the system has an automatic shut-off within a 26ft range. Operating at 500 CFM air flow with a maximum draw of just 1.0 amp, this unit eliminates all airborne particles — making it a catch for carving, sanding, turning, sawing, and dust mixing.
Conclusion
A dust collection system is a must in woodworking stores where dust, debris and airborne particles pose an imminent threat to operational efficiency and worker health. This system minimizes equipment breakdowns due to dust build-up and reduces the risk of fire in the workshop. Plus, a high-quality dust collector maintains air quality while reducing cleaning time and maintenance costs, so you can focus on what matters most — smooth, continuous operation throughout the year.
For those who want to prioritize the health of their most important assets (the workers), there’s no better pick than Purisystems 3-Speed Remote Air Filtration System. With its portable design, easy grip handles for mobility, and a specified power supply of 1/8 HP (Horsepower), this pick is a must for all your tasks, whether sanding, carving, turning or powder mixing.
As the icing on the cake, Purisystems goes the extra mile to ensure a truly worry-free shopping experience. As evidenced by the platform’s professional customer support team, ready to assist with all your queries. This is proven by the platform’s professional customer service team, who are on hand to assist with all your queries. So if your woodworking unit is seeking a go-to garage air purifier, shop at Purisystems today!