What Does
Cartridge Dust Collectors Mean?
A cartridge dust collector is a hazard removal system that works by filtering dust out of a defined space such as a warehouse. It is used in spaces where the presence of dust can act as a respiratory hazard or a physical or toxic irritant, as well as where dust may pose a combustion or explosion hazard.
The collector is typically attached to a hopper that routes collected dust into a barrel or other containment system that can be removed and replaced after it is filled.
Safeopedia Explains Cartridge Dust Collectors
Cartridge filters can be contrasted with bag filters. Both are frequently used in dust collection, but cartridge filters are usually used in situations where the ability to easily replace or clean the filter is a priority. The specific cartridges that must be used in a given application vary depending on the size and other properties of the dust particle being collected; different types of dust require different types of filters in order to be captured effectively.
Dust collectors are often attached to the exterior of the building they service, and they work by ventilating the air inside the building into the external collection system. They may also be placed indoors; however, this can sometimes result in a breach of legal safety standards if the collector itself becomes a combustible dust hazard.
A cartridge collector has a number of spaces for cartridges to be inserted into it. These cartridges act as the filtration units and capture dust particles that are moved into the system. This modular design means that after a filter wears out, it can be easily removed and replaced with a new one. This design also means that different cartridges can be inserted into a single collector in order to effectively filter different types of particulate out of the air. The use of a cartridge collector is generally preferred in applications where dust is present in less than 100 ppm, above which a bag system may become a superior option.
Employers may face obligations to provide a dust collection system for workplaces where the buildup of atmospheric dust might otherwise pose an explosion hazard. In the United States, the lack of a consolidated combustible dust standard or consolidated standards from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) mean that it is not always clear what these obligations may be. However, as employers are required to perform a workplace hazard analysis, they must take any steps necessary to mitigate whatever safety risks are revealed as a result of that analysis.
Grain-handling facilities are the exception to this lack of a clear unified standard, as the U.S. does impose specific obligations for combustible dust hazards in that instance. The use of dust collection filters is mandatory under OSHA’s Grain Handling Facilities Standard.