Introduction
With the aim of upholding high health and safety standards and protecting their work force from Silica dust exposure, a major kitchen manufacturer partnered with Dust Control Environmental (DCE) Ltd. to upgrade their dust extraction systems.
The site specialises in Quartz Resin worktops, known for their durability, hygienic finish and high-end style. The process of cutting and finishing the worktops however produces RCS (Respirable Crystalline Silica) dust into the atmosphere which can pose serious health problems for people working within the environment if not controlled properly.
Project Requirements
- The replacement of old, bag filtration, extraction units to maintain maximum extraction performance along with workplace safety and compliance.
- An Energy efficient system with the ability to operate proficiently and safely in a combustible atmosphere.
- To keep plant operational downtime to an absolute minimum during the new filter installation process.
- Consideration to be given to the provision of easy waste removal access.
- A safe, cost effective and quick method for the replacement of fan motors should it be required.
How DCE met the Requirements
Dust Control Environmental (DCE) successfully addressed their client’s needs by manufacturing and installing a DCE Envirojet W-series filter plant and duct system.
This high performance, reverse jet, bag dust collector system is engineered to efficiently handle, airborne particulates from six duct lines connected to multiple Biesse Rover CNC machines, two beam saws, a wide belt sander, various small process machines and a network of 24 plug – on tool extract points. The design ensures optimal particulate control across all connected equipment.
It incorporates 6 x 22kW cascading fans, which, by utilising strategically placed pneumatic dampers and E-Performance monitoring, adjusts fan speeds, or switches off fans, based on the number of operational lines. This feature delivers significant energy savings and cost reductions.
The installation was carried out on a newly laid concrete pad positioned beside the original dust collectors, ensuring continuous operation for the client until the switch to the new Envirojet-W dust extraction. DCE integrated a monorail system and a jib crane into the filter plant to aid quick and safe fan motor removal.
To address restricted access for waste removal, a screw fed system was designed to feed waste products back inside the building into a sealed one-ton bulk bag. This system triggers an alarm when full, ensuring efficient waste management.
Additionally, given the combustible atmosphere in which the Envirojet W extraction and ducting system operates, DCE included a spark detection system along the ducting for enhanced safety.
The Benefits
The implementation of the Envirojet W –Series dust extraction and ducting system will provide the manufacturing plant with the following benefits:
Enhanced Safety: The high performance dust collector will remove hazardous substances from the environment, including RCS, resulting in a cleaner, safer working environment.
The spark detection system offers an extra layer of workplace safety by reducing explosion and fire risks.
Energy Savings and Cost Reductions: The cascading fans system will show tangible savings on energy consumption with the monorail and jib crane modification enabling cost effective repair and maintenance, if required, with minimum operational downtime.
Future Expansion Capability: Adding extra duct points at the time of installation futureproofs the systems to accommodate further expansion if necessary.
Effective Waste Management: The new screw fed system makes waste removal both quicker and safer with the sealed bulk bag collection option.
Client Feedback
Martin Gill, Owner of Dust Control Environmental, stated, “By implementing the Envirojet W-Series dust extraction system, we have delivered a high-performance solution that ensures superior protection for workers against silica dust while driving substantial reductions in energy and operational costs.
“Our integrated E-Performance system enables precise monitoring, and a recent review confirmed energy savings for this client exceeding £100,000 over a 14 month time period. A clear testament to the efficiency and sustainability of our technology.”
For more information on the Envirojet-W series from Dust Control Environmental you can download the brochure or speak to the technical team on 01924 335500.