AdminA multi-stage oil mist collector removes airborne metal contaminants to create a safer working environment in machine shops. These filters trap and capture hazardous mists produced by metalworking fluids as they lubricate and cool parts and tools during the metal machining process. The filtered air is returned to the workspace, ensuring a clean work area and healthier environment for employees.
Oil mist and dust particles are created when metalworking fluids come into contact with milling, grinding or cutting processes. The mist and fumes are dispersed into the air, becoming dangerous oil smoke when exposed to high temperatures, or when they mix with moisture in the air. Using an oil mist collector can help reduce health risks and improve employee safety, productivity and efficiency in the workplace.
There are many factors to consider when choosing a mist collector. The power specifications, maintenance intervals and installation are all important factors in determining the best choice for a specific facility. Mist collectors that are rated for low noise operation can be important to ensure that they are not distracting to workers and do not interfere with the production workflow.
The WS Series oil mist collectors are designed to meet the needs of various facilities. The airflow rates of the units range from 170 to 1,250 cfm, making them suitable for a wide variety of CNC machines. The filtration capabilities of these units are also customizable. For example, the level of filtration can be adjusted to accommodate different particle size requirements and the use of different types of metalworking fluids.
As oil mist is drawn into the system, it passes through a multi-layered pre-filtration cartridge that reduces solid particulates, entrains bulk liquids and agglomerates finer droplets into larger drops, achieving an overall efficiency of 92%. In the second stage, accumulated droplets are reduced further by inertial impaction. This is where small dust particles and liquid droplets impact a deflecting surface — in this case, a special impeller that creates a cyclonic effect. The resulting slurry of droplets is then captured by the stainless-steel woven filter medium.
The filter is abrasion resistant and resists damage from the blades of the metalworking equipment, so it can be used for extended periods of time. The filter is also easy to clean and has an average lifetime of 10 years. The filtration efficiency of these units is measured with a laser particle counter, which indicates the concentration of oil mist in the air. A shop can easily determine if their system requires attention with this simple test.
The use of a mist collector is an investment in employee health, facility safety and productivity. It protects the environment and saves energy by reducing the load on a facility’s HVAC system. It also helps to minimize the number of times the filter must be cleaned or replaced, which lowers operating costs. In addition, installing a multi-stage oil mist collector can save money by lowering maintenance costs and preventing waste disposal expenses.