When it comes to protecting the health and safety of employees, proper air filtration is just as important as the right type of industrial equipment. The right air cleaner system can lower indoor pollution levels, reduce sick days and absenteeism, and increase production and productivity.
In fact, many different air cleaners are available on the market, each with its own unique set of capabilities. Some are designed to remove viruses from the air, while others may be better suited for dust and fume removal. Still others are ideal for capturing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and odors.
The types of pollutants that need to be removed from the air are also a major factor in determining the right kind of industrial air cleaner. For instance, an industrial machining application requires a special industrial air cleaner that can remove vapors, oil mist and metal particles as well as protect the work environment from harmful dust. Other applications might need an ambient or portable (or source capture) air cleaner.
Industrial air cleaners come in a variety of sizes and configurations to suit specific applications. In general, they are designed to filter out particulates, dust, smoke, gases, VOCs and odors. Some models are able to remove biological contaminants as well, such as viruses and molds.
How the air is filtered is dependent upon the specific application, with options ranging from electrostatic filtration to centralized filtration systems. The Euromate HF industrial air cleaner, for example, features a high voltage ionization section that charges the particles of dust in the air. The charged particles then fall downward into a collection section where they are trapped by filters. The clean air is then recirculated back into the workspace.
The size of the area where an industrial air cleaner is required will also determine the best type of system to purchase. Some are rated for use in small spaces, while others are designed to work in larger areas with higher air exchange rates. The filtration capability of an industrial air cleaner is also determined by its Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating. This rating helps to determine its ability to remove certain types of pollutants, such as viruses.
Another way to increase the effectiveness of an industrial air cleaner is by installing a HEPA filter in the ductwork of the HVAC system. This will help to reduce the concentration of bacteria, molds and other contaminants in the air. This can help to improve employee health, reduce the risk of illness and infection, and cut energy costs. This is a particularly important step for hospitals, which require the highest level of air quality.
