Sandblasting facilities play an important role in creating and restoring products for the global market. However, these facilities produce levels of dust-filled air that can be harmful to the environment and their employees when left unchecked. In this article, we’ll look at how dust collectors incorporate and enhance any sandblasting facility.
How Dust Forms in Sandblasting
Before we proceed, let’s have a quick look at sandblasting. Sandblasting is when an abrasive material is forcefully blasted on a specific surface using compressed air. This abrasive material can come in various types, including
- Organic materials like walnut shells, corn cobs, or ground fruit pits,
- Steel shot or steel grits,
- Chemical-based abrasives like aluminum oxide, silica sand, or plastic materials
- Crushed glass or glass beads, and
- Baking soda or soda ash, among others.
The process removes material from the surface being blasted upon contact, exposing the layer underneath. This results in the creation of fine, dust-like particles either from the sand blasted from the compressor, the surface contaminants, or the surface material.
Dust Control in Sandblasting
Depending on the production volume and type, sandblasting facilities can generate high volumes of dust. This can affect the employees working at the facility, as inhaling the dust can cause health problems in one’s body. The different chemicals in the dust particles have been known to trigger illnesses that will affect the productivity of the workforce and the entire operation.
Thus, efficient dust control is key to maintaining a safe and productive sandblasting operation. And the best way to achieve the best results is by installing a sand blaster dust collector on a sandblasting facility.
How Dust Collectors Work
A dust collection system is an important setup to include in any facility used for sandblasting. It works by drawing dust-filled air from the workshop or the facility in a three-step process, eliminating potential occupational hazards while properly disposing of the dust particles.
- First, the sandblaster dust collector draws in the air within the area using the facility’s ductwork system.
- Next, it filters the dust-filled air as it passes through dedicated filter material, separating the dust contaminants in the process.
- After filtration, the clean air is either released or returned to the facility for better air circulation. The eliminated contaminants are then disposed of properly.
Additional tips for better dust control in sandblasting facilities include:
- Properly controlling the airflow within the facility to avoid the spread of dust-filled air.
- If using water-based dust suppression, include additives on the water spray to hinder airborne dust movement.
- Make sure workshops with high dust production are properly enclosed to limit the contamination area.
- Workers should use proper air filtration gear while working to reduce the risk of inhaling the dust.
Selecting the Best Dust Collection System for Sandblasting
Now that we understand the importance of having a dust collector for sandblast operations, we need to look at the selection process. Here are five main factors to consider when shopping for a sandblasting dust collector:
Dust Type
Not all dust types are the same, and we must consider this before getting an appropriate dust collector. These include
- Particle size – dust collectors use different filter media to separate the dust. If dealing with finer particles, the dust collector for sandblasting may need specialized filters to function effectively.
- Dust volume – the type of dust collector a facility needs would also depend on how much dust is generated. The higher the dust volume, the stronger the dust collector should be.
- Dust composition – another factor will be its composition – whether it has combustible, abrasive, or corrosive properties, as it can affect the performance and service life of the dust collector. Make sure that the dust collector has properties that resist and prevent damage from the dust’s composition.
Facility Space and Layout
Second on our list of determining factors is the space available in the sandblasting facility. A key rule here is that larger facilities will need stronger and sophisticated dust collector for sandblast. Also, check if the factory’s existing ductwork and ventilation setup can handle the dust collector, or if an upgrade needs to be made first.
Then there’s the consideration of whether the facility will need a centralized or decentralized collection system. The main difference is that centralized dust collection systems work for multiple sections, while decentralized setups will have multiple independent dust collectors installed per section.
Airflow and Static Pressure
Based on the generated dust volume, how many dust sources the facility has, and the ductwork layout, we’ll need to calculate the airflow and static pressure requirements. Getting the right numbers will determine what size and capacity of dust collector will work best on the facility.
Energy Requirements
One tip when buying a dust collector for sandblasting: always check the setup’s energy efficiency capabilities. Not only will these reduce energy consumption and lead to lower power bills, but they’re also great for the environment. Additionally, choose dust collectors that can be easily maintained to minimize downtime.
Industry Compliance
Last, but definitely not least, is to ensure that the sandblasting dust collector meets the industry standards of the region. Checking regulatory requirements helps guarantee that the dust collectors will effectively protect the health and safety of workers.
Tysum Dust Control Solutions for Sandblasting
When shopping for a sand blast dust collector, don’t forget to include Tysum in your list of dust collector manufacturers. We produce a line of expertly made baghouse and cartridge dust collector setups for sandblasting facilities. We also supply various filter materials that guarantee a 99% collection of dust, dirt, and other contaminants from 0.5 to 50 microns.
In addition to our standard line of dust collectors and filters, we also cater to custom production, addressing specific market requirements. Our expert designers and production specialists have vast experience in creating tailor-made solutions used in various industries, including production facilities like sandblasting.
Tysum conducts the entire production process in an ISO9001-certified facility, ensuring the utmost quality control in each step. Following both strict internal and global regulations for performance and safety during production, our dust collection systems comply with CE, NFPA, and OSHA standards. Alongside our commitment to meticulous quality control, we also opt to use the best materials and incorporate parts from Schneider, ABB, and Siemens, further cementing the reliability of our products.
As a trusted maker of dust collection systems in China for two decades, we’re well-equipped to fulfill the industry’s demand for powerful and reliable air filtration products. Our focus on quality, innovation, and client-centric solutions has made Tysum the go-to dust collector maker for over 500 world-renowned businesses in more than 30 countries.
Improve Any Sandblasting Facility with Dust Collection Systems
Dust collection systems help elevate the safety and performance of any sandblasting facility, as it filters the dust-filled air and replace it with cleaner air. With cleaner air within the facility, workers are less exposed to potentially harmful dust, keeping them healthy and maintaining optimal production levels. But before purchasing a dust collector for sandblast facilities, take time to check the dust type, facility space, and other important factors to ensure you’re getting the right one.
Looking for a dust collection system expert? Tysum is here to help! Contact our experts today for a free consultation.
