Following an inspection from the HSE, Ducting Express were contacted by a manufacturer of timber buildings. Their current extraction systems within their joinery workshop were deemed unsatisfactory so contacted us to resolve their problem with wood dust.
Further to the initial enquiry our wood waste extraction design engineer arranged a site visit to meet with the customer and discuss their needs. During this visit we were able to take a thorough site survey to allow us to quote for the upgrades to make the systems compliant.
_resized.jpg)
_resized.jpg)
Ducting Express’ Solution
Part of the customer’s existing wood dust extraction system consisted of a plastic drain pipe type ducting. Plastic ducting is not compliant with regulations, especially in joinery shops as the dust produced creates static charge which can cause fires and potential explosions.
In this area of their workshop we proposed to strip out the existing plastic ductwork and replace with new suitably sized galvanised steel ducting to two cross cut saws. The new ducting would be spirally wound circular hot dip galvanised prime steel ductwork, manufactured from continuous hot dip zinc coated low carbon steel manufactured to BSEN 10327: 2004 complying with HVCA DW144.
Another area of the workshop had a light duty hobbyist single bag extraction unit connected to a table saw which we proposed to strip out and replace with new suitably sized extraction unit with ducting to connect to the rear and top extraction points of a table saw.
The new extraction unit was one of our DE 800L single bag units fully clad with an open top, these are our new type of open bag filter units inline with the HSE recommendations (see below)
The HSE safe collection of wood waste: Prevention of fire and explosion
To avoid the risk from secondary explosion or fire, it is essential to enforce good housekeeping practices to prevent the accumulation of wood dust within the building, eg a formal cleaning regime using appropriate vacuums fitted with HEPA-type filters
Unenclosed sock collectors (<0.5 m3/s capacity)
These would quickly disintegrate if the contents were ignited, but would not produce high explosion pressures or widespread effects. Fire risks may exist so, if unenclosed, do not position them within 3 m of workers, combustible materials or walkways. Alternatively, provide a suitable baffle or deflector plate or enclosure.
Unenclosed sock collectors (0.5–2.5 m3 /s capacity)
Ignition of wood dust can lead to a jet of flame at head height, but an explosion is not likely. Where such collectors must remain within the workroom, provide one of the following precautions: Total enclosure within a strong metal cabinet with either an air outlet large enough in area to act as explosion relief or explosion vents. Outlets or vents should preferably discharge to a safe place outside the workroom or, if inside, discharge at least above head height.
A further area of the joinery factory had a second existing light duty hobbyist single bag extraction unit which we would remove and replace with a new suitably sized extraction unit and ducting to connect to the rear extraction points of a table saw, router and band saw. The new extraction unit will be one of our DE 1400L Twin bag units fully clad.
Wood Waste Extraction Installation
Installation was carried out by our skilled fitters over a two day period. All ducting was secured using heavy duty fixings and brackets.
Each separate area was fitted with a vacuum extraction point with a 6 meter hose fitted into the main ducting to enable good housekeeping.
On completion of the installation works our commissioning engineer visited the customers’ site to carry out a LEV COSHH test in order to provide the customer with legal documentation for the new system.
Having issues with wood dust and require a similar solution in your joinery workshop? Contact the team at Ducting Express today. Our team of experienced wood waste extraction engineers can advise you of the best solution.
