
Reliable collection and separation of hazardous laser emissions
Laser cutting is a technology which uses high powered laser beam for the thermal cutting of various metals in different thicknesses and forms such as sheet or tubes so they can be precisely cut leaving an edge with a high-quality surface finish. The laser beam hits the workpiece, and the material heats up to the extent that it melts or vaporizes.
Over recent years laser cutting technology has advanced to enable the cutting of thicker metals such as structural steel and not only mild steel and stainless steel but also non-ferrous metals including copper, brass and aluminium. Laser technology has become a standard industrial process. The achieved increase in precision and productivity is also associated with increased emissions. During the machining process, the laser cutting tables (CO² and fibre) generate dust, smoke, and gases, which are breathing hazards for machine operators and can lead to, e.g., respiratory illnesses. Optimum extraction is needed to prevent the inhalation of toxic airborne particles, particularly the finest particles that can settle deep into lung tissues.
Dust collector systems are most commonly used to capture and separate laser emissions directly at the source. Emissions generated during the process are captured through the laser cutting table, pulled downwards and directed through the ductwork into the dust collector, where emissions are then filtered. The particles directed into the dust collector are captured in the filter elements and separated into a dust container through a pulse cleaning process.
When selecting a dust extraction system for a laser table we recommend that you consult an expert to ensure you are getting the correct, reliable and efficient extraction solution for your application as there are many critical factors that must be considered such as, table dimensions, laser output power, type of laser beam, the auxiliary gas, the material to be cut and the automated material handling system are some. This will help determine the size of the extraction unit needed to handle the required extraction air volume from the specific process.
Installation Photos for Laser & Plasma Cutting:
Application-specific extraction solutions - we will be happy to advise you!
Quantum Series – Dry Dust Collector for Laser Cutting Applications
The Quantum Series separators were designed explicitly for the extraction process during laser cutting applications and are available in three sizes (1,500 – 5,500 m³/h). An integrated spark arrestor as well as an improved filter design and cleaning system ensure the necessary process reliability. Thanks to its small footprint, the separator can be integrated perfectly into the production environment. The large maintenance door and simple filter change make the plug-and-play devices particularly easy to maintain.
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Gold Series X-Flo – for laser cutting applications with bigger air volumes starting from 5.500 m³/h
The modular-designed Gold Series X-Flo dust collection system is a reliable solution for capturing and separating combustible dust and ideal for laser cutting applications where larger air volumes above 5,500 m³/h are required. The cross-flow technology used in combination with a unique baffle configuration creates a uniform airflow that extends the life of your filter cartridges and reduces the overall operating costs.
More information about Gold Series X-Flo
We are very happy with the Farr Gold Series. The GS36 was purchased for our CNC plasma cutter to replace a [competitor's] cartridge dust collector due to short filter life. The current filters have been in for over a year and still look great and are operating at less than 3" pressure drop. Also, the Farr people have been a pleasure to do business with.
-Dan Schuler, Schuler Mfg.