The safe removal of residual dust is a critical element when processing solids. It’s also needed throughout production, from active ingredient handling through packaging and shipment of finished product. A central dust collection system removes particulate, increases safety, and reduces maintenance costs. The reality is that these systems are often inadequate. Many were installed quickly over the years, a stopgap measure to accommodate growing production demands. Attempts to link single collection units resulted in a compromise that lacked proper controls and was expensive to operate.
The solution is to incorporate a comprehensive, modern system that better protects personnel and equipment, promotes productivity and keeps operating costs in line. This can often be accomplished optimizing existing equipment.
A Case Study
A major German manufacturer dealing with increased product demand encountered problems with dust control. Its existing collection system consisted of single units in either standalone applications or in a battery of units. None were interconnected. Compounding the problem was the fact that a number of different filter suppliers were involved, making it difficult to efficiently maintain the system. The result was an increased risk of dust contamination during the disposal/discharge and filter changing process. In addition to dealing with dust contamination issues, the company planned to integrate central vacuum points and pneumatic conveying lines with its production operation, each requiring different pressure levels within the system.