In industries where machining is done, oil mist is generated. This oil mist is unhealthy for workers and also damages equipment. Not only can it cause slip and fall accidents, but oil mist also promotes the growth of bacteria.

Without the proper precautions, oil mist can be detrimental in a workshop. To combat these hazards, many companies choose to use oil mist collectors. This article will explore what oil mist collectors are and where they are used.

What Is an Oil Mist Collector

Oil mist collectors are machines that remove airborne particles from industrial workplaces. While they were originally designed for use in the metalworking industry, recent innovations have also made them useful in other industries, such as commercial food production and air purification.

Businesses use oil mist collectors to remove contaminants from the air and improve the quality of their products. In some cases, they are also used to meet government regulations on air pollution.

For example, according to OSHA, the official exposure limit is 5 mg/m3, averaged over an 8-hour workday and a 40-hour workweek for all employees. If an employer does not follow these restrictions, they could face legal action or financial penalties.

Health and safety committees suggest a maximum of 0.3-0.5 mg/m3 to maintain a safe working environment. To make sure that your industry stays compliant, an industrial hygienist should be contacted to assess the air quality where you work.

Additionally, oil mist collectors can be used to improve the quality of your products, in some cases, such as when machining aluminum, oil mist can cause the formation of oxide on the surface of the metal.

This oxide layer can cause the aluminum to become discolored and affect its strength. By using an oil mist collector, you can remove this layer and improve the quality of your products.

Where Are Mist Collectors Used?

Now that we know what oil mist collectors are and what they do let's take a look at some of the industries where they are used. Here are some of the most common industries that use oil mist collectors:
●    The food industry.
●    CNC machine tools.
●    The metalworking industry
●    Complex machining centers.
●    The air purification industry.
●    Lathes.
●    Turning machinery.
●    Sharpeners and grinders.
●    Drilling operations.
●    Grinding machinery.
●    Milling machines.

Where is Mist Generated?

Whatever the industry, oil mist is generated in many ways. The most common ways that oil mist is generated are:
●    During the machining of metals.
●    Part washers.
●    Electrical discharge machine operations.
●    Metal cutting operations.
●    Heat treating.
●    When lubricating oils are used.
●    Plastic and rubber applications.
●    Metal forming operations.
●    Lube oil reservoirs.

The list could go on, but these are some of the most common places and ways oil mist is generated.

How are Oil Mist Collectors Installed?

Oil mist collectors can be installed in many different ways. The most common way is to install them directly onto the source of the oil mist. This is the most effective way to remove the mist, but it might also be the most difficult way to clean and maintence the oil mist collector. Another way to install oil mist collectors is to duct them into the source of the mist. This is easier way to clean and maintance the oil mist collector than installing them directly onto the working machine, but it needs more tube. The third way to install oil mist collectors is to use them as portable units. This is movable and flexible way to install them, but it is also the least effective in the open space.

Oil Mist Collector Technologies

Centrifugal Mist Collector
The rotating drum pulls in the air that contains mist and has a filter inside. The centrifugal force of the rotation merges the small droplets of mist into larger ones, which are then blown out of the filter by force toward the drain. These collectors are most efficient with water-based mists and can handle large volumes before replacing the filters.

Mist Collectors with Panel Filters
Mist collectors with panel filters use two or three rectangular filters to remove oil mist from the air. The panels are made of pleated fiberglass or polyester media. One advantage of this type of collector is that it can operate 24 hours per day.
Another advantage is that the panels can easily change when they become dirty. Disadvantages of mist collectors with panel filters include the fact that they require a lot of space and can be expensive to operate. 

Cartridge Mist Collector
A cartridge mist collector uses one or more cylindrical cartridges to remove oil mist from the air. The cartridges are made of paper, cloth, or fiberglass media. There are several advantages to cartridge mist collectors, including their high efficiency (95% or higher) and the fact that they can use disposable cartridges, which makes them easy to maintain.

 

What Factors Should You Consider When Purchasing a Mist Collector?

To ensure you're buying the best mist collector for your industry, keep an eye out for the following guidelines:

Filtration Capability and Air Quality Standards

One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing an industrial mist collector is the air quality standards that must be met. Many different types of air contaminants, such as fumes, smoke, dust, and aerosol, are generated from metalworking processes like grinding, welding, and cutting. Choosing a mist collector specifically designed to remove the type of contaminant you are dealing with is essential. 

Another critical factor to consider is the filtration capability of the mist collector. The size and weight specifications of the unit will be determined by the amount of airflow required for your specific application. When selecting a mist collector, the Static pressure (if the oil mist machine with the Hepa filter), this value should be considered. The higher the static pressure, the more efficient the unit will be at removing contaminants from the air.

 

1. Power and Usage 

Most industrial mist collectors require a standard 3Φ220V / 380V / 400V power supply. It is also important to consider the working machine inside space is required to choose the mist collector.

2. Application, Size, and Weight Specifications 

Choose a unit designed for your specific application to ensure optimal performance. In addition to choosing a unit specifically designed for your application, it is also essential to consider the size and weight specifications of the mist collector.
The size of the unit will be determined by the amount of airflow required for your specific application, while the unit's weight will be determined by the machine model.

3. Noise Level Considerations 

Who will be using the mist collector, and how often? If the answer is "workers in close proximity," you will want to consider a unit with a low noise level. Some industrial mist collectors can generate a high noise level, which can be disruptive and even dangerous for workers in close proximity. 
Some units may produce high levels of noise which can be disruptive in work environments. If sound level considerations are a concern for you, choose a unit specifically designed for low-noise operation. 

4. Installation Options 

Most units can be permanently or portable, depending on your specific needs. Consider how often you need to move or relocate the unit and choose an installation option that best suits your needs. 
When to Use an Oil Mist Collector?
Since oil mist collectors are designed to remove oil mist from the air, they should be used in any industrial application where oil mist is present. This includes machining operations such as grinding, turning, and milling, as well as other operations such as welding, oil tank filtering system.

Final Thoughts

With so many different oil mist collectors on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for your application. However, by following the guidelines laid out in this article, you should be able to find the perfect oil mist collector for your needs. 
If you are looking for a trusted supplier of oil mist collectors, KOTON TECHNOLOGIES's Mist collectors are some of the best on the market. We offer a wide range of oil mist collectors to suit any industrial application, and our experienced team is always on hand to help you choose the suitable unit for your needs. Contact us today to learn more about our mist collectors or request a quote.