Dust collectors are designed to capture and filter out solid particulates, such as dust and other larger airborne contaminants, from the air in industrial environments. They are often used in woodworking, metalworking, and other processes that generate a lot of dust. Dust collectors work by using a high-powered fan to create a vacuum that pulls air (and the dust it carries) into the system, where it's then filtered out. The clean air is then released back into the workspace, and the captured dust is disposed of. 

Mist collectors, on the other hand, are designed to capture and filter out liquid particles or aerosols from the air. These are typically used in environments where processes generate a lot of mist or smoke, such as machining operations that use coolant or oil-based lubricants. The mist collector works by pulling the contaminated air into the system, where the mist particles are captured on a filter or through other means such as electrostatic precipitation or centrifugal separation. The filtered air is then released back into the workspace, and the collected mist is either disposed of or recycled, depending on the system and the nature of the mist. 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets forth regulations and guidelines to ensure workplace safety and health, including the management of dust in the workplace. Dust collection systems are crucial in many industries to control and minimize the exposure of workers to hazardous dust. The specific OSHA requirements for dust collection can vary depending on the type of dust (e.g., wood, metal, chemical) and the industry. For the most current information, visit the official OSHA website.

Dust collectors are critical for maintaining a healthy work environment, protecting workers from harmful dust, and complying with environmental regulations. The basic working principle of industrial dust collectors involves several key steps:

• Capture - The first step in the dust collection process is capturing the dust. This is achieved using capture hoods or other devices placed at the source of dust generation. The goal is to enclose or contain the dust at its source and prevent it from dispersing into the work environment.
  
  
• Conveyance - Once captured, the dust must be transported to the dust collector. This is typically done through a system of ductwork that creates a pathway for the contaminated air to travel from the capture point to the dust collector. The design of the ductwork system, including its diameter and layout, is crucial for efficient dust collection and minimizing energy consumption.
  
  
• Filtration and Separation - Upon reaching the dust collector, the dusty air is filtered. There are several types of dust collectors, each using different methods to separate dust from the air.
  
  
• Collection - After the dust is separated from the air, it falls into a collection system, such as a bin, drum, or hopper, for disposal or recycling.
  
  
• Clean Air Exhaust - The final step is the release of clean air back into the atmosphere or work area. In some systems, the air might go through additional filtration or purification steps before being released.

While sometimes these descriptions are used interchangeably, dust extractors are more suited for direct source capture and mobility, especially for fine particles and smaller workspaces. In contrast, dust collectors are designed for larger-scale operations requiring high-volume dust collection from multiple sources.

Sizing a mist collector is a nuanced process that requires a thorough understanding of your operational needs, the properties of the mist generated, and the specifics of your workspace. Accurate sizing is crucial for efficient operation, compliance with regulations, and ensuring a clean, safe work environment for workers.

• The framework of the decision includes the following steps:
  • Identify the type of mist
  • Calculate the airflow requirements
  • Consider the machine tool enclosure
  • Adjust for the number of machines being served by a collector
  • Factor in ductwork and system design
  • Consult with experts or the manufacturer
  • Learn and comply with regulatory and environmental factors

Mist collectors, also known as mist eliminators or mist extractors, are devices designed to remove or collect mist or fine droplets of fluid from the air. These fluids can include oil, water, coolant, or other liquids that are used or generated in industrial processes.

The purpose of mist collectors is to improve air quality, protect worker health, enhance safety, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. They are commonly used in industrial manufacturing settings, such as metalworking, machining, chemical processing, and food processing facilities.

Mist collectors can be installed directly on machines that generate mist or as central systems that serve multiple sources in a facility. They not only help in maintaining a cleaner and safer work environment but also contribute to the recapture of valuable fluids that can be recycled and reused in the process, thereby reducing waste and potentially saving money.

• The requirement for mist collectors on CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines largely depends on the specific regulations and guidelines in place within a country, state, or industry, as well as the nature of the operations being performed. However, even when not explicitly required by law, their use is highly recommended and considered a best practice.
  
  Having mist collectors in place can also affect a company's legal liability and insurance costs. Demonstrating adherence to best practices for worker safety and environmental protection can lead to lower insurance premiums and reduce the risk of costly legal battles or fines.
  
  
• The installation of mist extractors is advisable for the multitude of benefits they provide in terms of health, safety, environmental compliance, and operational efficiency. 

United Air Specialists was part of CLARCOR Industrial Air. CLARCOR joined Parker’s Filtration Group in 2017 and brought proprietary media, industrial and process filtration products, and technologies, as well as a broad portfolio of replacement filters. United Air Specialists along with the DustHog®, SmogHog®, and BHA® brands can be found here in the Industrial Gas Filtration and Generation division.