Production processes in most industrial activities generate by-products in the form of dust particles of different geometric shapes and dimensions, as well as in the form of mist and fumes.

Whether dust is used in a production process (metallurgy, processing polymers, in the production of paints and synthetic materials and pharmaceutical and cosmetic products) or it is just a by-product, dust always has a negative impact on human health and the environment.

Workspace protection measures, including suitable procedures for maintenance, should be planned when designing production lines and selecting machinery and equipment.

Of particular importance is the removal of dust from appliances, machinery and auxiliary equipment as well as from the entire working area, which is achieved by implementing appropriate procedures of dedusting, such as:

• vacuum extraction of grinding dust, airborne powdery substances and materials which have settled on the floor, machines, etc.
  
• removal of airborne particles in the workspace

Within a workspace that generates larger and heavier particles that settle as wood or metal shavings, powders, granules, etc., it is necessary to use suction devices that are called industrial vacuum cleaners which generate a vacuum of up to 40%.

Industrial vacuum cleaners are available as:

• mobile

There is a wide range of accessories and suction attachments for these mobile units. The shape and material of suction attachment is selected depending on the type and characteristics of pollution and workspace configuration.
If standard accessories are not usable due to specific workspace conditions and/or pollution, new ones can be designed and constructed.

or

• stationary , positioned centrally for cleaning the entire site

Dust extraction systems with a fan creating a low pressure (up to 4kPa) are used in larger factories where there is a lot of airborne dust (from polishing procedures, packaging of loose materials, transportation and dosage of powdered ingredients in the food industry, etc. ).

Vital parts of such systems are the fan and filter elements of different variations (filter cartridges, bags, cassettes, boxes, water filters,…).

In addition to the main dust extractor and/or collection device, it is equally important to carefully choose the type and characteristics of auxiliary equipment and accessories (piping, valves, extendable suction arms, reels of flexible hose). They have an impact on the effectiveness of cleaning and they increase the flexibility, ease of use and level of ergonomics of the system.

In cases of higher concentrations of airborne mechanical impurities, it is possible to integrate cyclone separators into the site plan which contribute to the efficiency of the standard equipment.

• for metal dust extraction, spark arresters are added

• for procedures which generate oil mist and fumes (laser cutting, welding, machining, …) the installation of mechanical and electrostatic filters is recommended

• if toxic dust is present, or if clean air is supplied into a workspace, HEPA filters can be fitted, which enable nearly 100% air treatment efficiency.