Dust testing

Camfil APC recognizes that a dust collection system is a major capital investment and can be a costly operating expense if it doesn’t work properly. Our state-of-the-art dust collection test facility can provide the data you need to avoid guesswork and invest wisely.

We can perform a battery of bench tests on your sample dust, including simulated challenges. We analyze your performance requirements and use this information to develop the best collection system for your needs.

Particle size analysis

This reveals the dust particle size distribution down to the submicron range. This information determines the filtration efficiency required to meet emissions standards. The dual-laser particle analyzer can pinpoint both the count (the number of particles of a given size) and the volume or mass spread of the dust. Knowing both is important because many dusts are mixed.

For example, the exhaust dust from a plasma cutter includes submicron carbon particles mixed with much larger steel particles. Scientific testing is the only way to identify the tiny particles of carbon dust, which helps you choose the appropriate equipment and filter media. Sieve analysis is a related test that measures particle size larger than 100 microns.

Video microscope

We use a scanning electron microscope (SEM) for visual analysis of the dust shape and characteristics. For example, close inspection will reveal if it is a crystalline structure with jagged edges like fumed silica or spherical metal particulate.

Together with particle size analysis, this tool is vital for proper equipment selection, often helping to determine what type of collector should be used.

A scanning electron microscope's 4000x magnification provides a clear view of nanofibers on filter media.

Pycnometer

This testing apparatus determines the true specific gravity of the dust as opposed to the bulk density. Specific gravity is the weight of a given material as a solid block. For example, aluminum weighs 165 pounds per cubic foot. Bulk density is the weight of the same material in the form of dust. For example, flame-sprayed aluminum dust weighs only 1 to 2 pounds per cubic foot. Pycnometer testing can help to determine the efficiency of cyclonic-type dust collectors.

Abrasion testing

This measures the relative abrasiveness of dust. This knowledge helps to determine the optimal design of dust-handling components, including valves, inlets, and ductwork. For example, when capturing a highly abrasive dust such as cast iron grindings, the collector must be designed with low inlet velocity. If inlet velocity is too high, the dust will abrade the filters and cause premature wear.