Challenge

When the GE Healthcare group was relocating their Whatman filter paper manufacturing business to South Wales, they decided to install a new high-efficiency dust control system. The new system would keep the factory clean and protect operators from the very fine, hazardous glass microfiber that some of their filter papers are manufactured from. It would also provide extraction from various machines in the manufacturing area, including trimmers, die cutters and packing machines.

After careful consideration, they selected Camfil APC's Gold Series® industrial dust collector for the project as they offered the best solution. They combined exceptionally high filtration efficiency with ease of installation and simple maintenance.

Two GS12 dust collectors were installed outside the building and connected by systems of ducting to the machines within the manufacturing area. Airflows are monitored by pressure sensors. The fans are controlled by inverter drive systems to ensure that extraction rates remain consistent, providing high levels of protection for the operators.

Solution

To save on heating costs, GE Healthcare wanted to recirculate the air back into the building during the winter months. As the operator exposure levels for the glass microfiber have to be kept at an extremely low level, the Gold Series collectors were fitted with integrated HEPA filters. These ensure that even the smallest of particles are removed before the air is returned to the manufacturing area.

The systems were installed and commissioned in early 2010 and have been running efficiently ever since.

Case Study Details

Client Name

GE Healthcare

Application

Extraction of glass microfiber from filter paper manufacturing

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