In order to help protect worker health from the dust that is formed when sanding vehicle surfaces, an ideal solution for the body shop worker is to prevent dust particles from entering the air by extracting dust where it originates at the surface of the vehicle while sanding. This is one of the reasons why a sanding machine needs to achieve high material removal so that the work is efficient, while as few particles are released into the environment.
How dust extraction devices operate.
The containers of the Cleantec-dust extractors from Festool cover a volume of 10 to 48 litres and the dust classifications L, M and H which are mainly used in Europe and are differentiated by the degree of filtration. The more dangerous the dust, the higher the degree of filtration must be. There are only minor differences between the classifications from .0 to .995% which illustrates how tiny particles can have such a big impact.
The dust extraction filter uses a continuous volume of airflow from the dust extractor device which helps prevent the filter from becoming clogged or caked. Depending on the configuration, the Festool dust extraction portfolio has a volume of airflow options between 3,400 to 3,900 litres per minute. Together with the Festool sanders, those motions speed range from 3,000 to 10,500 revolutions per minute, resulting in a powerful tool that combines high performance along with ergonomics and health protection for workers.
The importance of HEPA filters in dust extraction.
Originally designed to prevent the spread of radioactive particles, the HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter is a high standard accessory for sensitive manufacturing processes. Because of the randomly arranged fibres and the adhesion of the fibres, small and even microscopic particles are trapped by HEPA filters. This is why they are used in trapping toxic dust.
HEPA filters in accordance with the US EPA Renovation, Repair, and Painting (RRP) – rule (40 CFR Part 745) are also available in Canada for use with Festool dust extractors. They are required to have a 99.99% degree of filtration for particles up to .3 micrometres. To illustrate this: the human eye can see objects that are bigger than 30 micrometres only – and a human hair is approximately 100 micrometres.
Dependable and trustworthy dust removal.
Because Festool tools combine powerful extractors and customizable filters which are specifically designed with dust extraction in mind, they are trusted by vehicle repair workers for their reliability and ability to execute expert craftsmanship. Combined with 3M auto care products and personal protective equipment, workers can operate with pride and peace of mind.
