The Problem:

Mitsubishi Electric have a busy powder coating shop which requires a very high quality finish as parts will be installed in exposed locations outside buildings. As volumes increase some rework sanding is carried out and the dust created must be controlled to prevent contamination, and to keep the whole works cleaner.

The Solution:
To install a purpose built 1800 Downdraught Sanding Bench with an LW22P wet scrubber unit to provide the extraction.
The work is carried out on a bench similar to that already in use, now having a grille top to allow extraction downwards through the bench, the most effect route. This allows the existing tools to continue in use and leaves the operators free to work exactly as at present.
Benches are available in a range of sizes, the most popular being 1.8m wide as illustrated above. All have a 'soft' non-scratch decking, built in fluorescent lamps, and will accept vices and other work holding jigs.
Extraction by wet scrubber unit is ideal. They have no main filters so the original high extraction rate is maintained, no consumables, and most dusts and metals can be collected safely.

The Result:

• Contamination is reduced
• The whole works area is much cleaner
• Operators no longer wear masks

The Problem:

Propak Sheet Metal already had several SB24 Sanding Booths used for mild steel and stainless weld dressing, but an inceasing work load called for a further fettling station to be installed. Aluminium working was also increasing. Components varied from "wardrobes" to tiny brackets.

The Solution:
To install the TB9 Low Profile Booth with LW22P wet units providing the exhaust. Low profile booths allow the largest work to be dressed directly on the floor, intermediate work is usually dressed on stools or trestles (sometimes railway sleepers, orange boxes, even car tyres) and the smallest work is dressed on a workbench inserted into the booth.

Because all Booths comply with the Code of Practice the operators no longer need wear any breathing protection -a feature particularly welcome. It was also noticed that as the airborne dust was better controlled much less dust penetrationed the controls of nearby machines, the whole works also seemed cleaner.

The Result:

Wet exhaust units were chosen to provide exhaust for the reasons:

• Obligatory when Aluminium involved.
• Allow mild steel, stainless steel and aluminium working in the same booth.
• Safe from the fire risk from Grinding sparks and scotchbrite materials.
• No filters so original suction rates maintained