We’ve discussed the importance of welding fume extraction time and time again. After all, safety never goes out of style. But when it comes time to actually select a fume extractor for welding, how do you choose? It’s important to know what’s out there and have a proper understanding of your particular fume extraction needs. In today’s piece we take a look at our top tips and best practices for selecting an effective fume extractor without overbuying.
1. Evaluate Your Needs
- The frequency at which you weld
- The duration of your welding sessions
- The welding process you use (MIG, TIG, stick, or oxyfuel)
- The number of welding stations at your facility
- Your facility’s current air ventilation and filtration systems
For instance, a freelance welder who takes their work on the go and a dedicated welding facility with multiple welding stations will have very different needs when it comes to fume extraction capabilities. Once you have identified your ‘must-haves’ in a fume extractor, then you can start narrowing down your options.
Need help evaluating your current fume extraction equipment needs? Chat with the experts at Diversitech to find out more about your options.
2. Stationary or Portable?
Depending on your evaluation, you can determine whether a portable fume extractor or a stationary solution like a wall-mounted fume extractor would better meet your requirements. In the case of the freelance welder mentioned before, a portable fume extractor for welding would be ideal. A model like the FRED Mini-Vac II Portable Fume Extractor comes in a compact configuration which makes it easy to transport from station to station or site to site. In the case of a welding facility, both portable units and stationary units pose unique advantages worth considering.
A portable fume extractor doesn’t have to be used for just welding. It can be applied to other operations like grinding, machining, and painting, acting as a versatile air filtration unit across different manufacturing processes.
However, if welding makes up a significant portion of a facility’s manufacturing operations or runs continuously throughout the day, then a stationary fume extractor could be a more efficient option. A wall-mounted unit, like the FRED Sr. Wall-Mounted Fume Extractor, is well suited for such operations. This configuration can help save valuable floor space as well, making it a favorable choice for facilities where floor space may be limited.
3. Table or Booth?
Although this might sound like something you would hear before getting seated at your favorite restaurant, it’s also an important question to ask when weighing out your options for stationary welding fume extractors. There are two major types of fixtures to compare here: downdraft tables, and welding booths.
Downdraft Tables
Downdraft tables come in two types: plain downdraft tables, and wet downdraft tables. Regular downdraft tables are made to capture dust, fumes, and smoke at the source before they can be released past the work station. A wet downdraft table takes the extra step to neutralize any potentially flammable particles by drawing them through a stream of water. That neutralized dust takes the form of sludge, which is then collected and discarded.
Both of these table types can also come in standalone or ducted configurations. If you plan on using multiple tables in close quarters, a ducted configuration where each unit is hooked up to a central collector may be most efficient. If you only plan on using one or a few tables across different parts of your facility, a standalone configuration might make more sense.
Welding Booths
Whether you need a stationary or portable unit, Diversitech has the welding fume extraction solution you need. Explore our solutions geared toward welding applications.
4. Filtration Efficiency
As evidenced by the vast differences between the units we’ve discussed so far, not all solutions are created equal. Another aspect that can differ between solutions is filtration efficiency. Before deciding on a machine based on its capabilities, do your research on the type of filters that unit is compatible with. HEPA MERV filters are quite common, offering a filtration efficiency of 99%. At Diversitech we also have filter options like Nanotech MERV, which offers greater filtration efficiency in welding, grinding, and deburring operations. To maximize filtration efficiency, be sure to follow your manufacturer’s recommended filter cleaning or replacement schedule. This will help keep your unit performing at its best and also help extend your machine’s life.
5. Ease of Use
Finally, one of the most important aspects to consider- how easy is it to use the machine? Even the most advanced solution can be a dud if it’s not user friendly. Think about not just the day to day use of your fume extractor, but also the initial setup and ease of maintenance. If you’re looking at a portable fume extractor for welding, setup may be as simple as just plugging it in and flipping a power switch. However if you’re looking at a ducted downdraft booth for welding fume extraction, that can take upwards of an hour to properly install and test at your facility.
When it comes to using your fume extractor in welding applications, here are a few tips to help you get the most out of it:
- Make sure your work area is free of clutter and debris.
- Regularly inspect, clean, and replace your filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Regularly empty any dust collection trays.
- For wet dust collectors, regularly dispose of any collected sludge.
- When using a portable fume extractor for welding, always be sure to point the fume extractor arm toward your work area.
- When using an adjustable fume extractor arm, make sure it is an appropriate distance from your work area.
- When you are not using your fume extractor, be sure to power off the unit.
Have questions about welding fume extraction? Diversitech is here to help.
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