Dust Extraction and Fume Extraction specialists. Whether it's Downflow Booths, mobile filter units, or Hood Positioning Devices (Extraction Arms), flextraction have products to suit your dust and fume extraction requirements.

flextraction Fume Extraction Equipment Helps Food Industry Equipment Manufacturer

Posted November 15, 2010

Riley Product Handling Ltd in Derby is a manufacturer of bakery systems used predominantly in biscuit and cracker production. Their equipment links the exit of an oven with wrapping machines, sorting products into the right numbers of lanes and presenting the products at the correct angle and pressure.

When Riley Product Handling, which exports up to 80% of its products, took the strategic decision to dispense with out sourcing their MIG, TIG and MMA welding fabrication, they needed the appropriate equipment to undertake such work. Initially they used a portable fume extraction system with two extraction arms, before they decided to go for a fixed system with flexible extraction arms extracting fumes externally via a filter unit to save on space with no clutter and a much reduced noise level.

Tim Wilding, Engineering Manager at Riley Product Handling contacted Simon Plaister at Foster Industrial, his local welding equipment distributor in nearby Nottingham for advice. Foster Industrial is a distributor for flextraction Ltd, supplier and manufacturer of local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) products and was asked as one of three bidders to submit a quotation.

The flextraction system was selected on the basis of design, price and communications. It comprised 5 x extended HPDs (Hood Positioning Devices) and 2 x 2m standard HPDs. Each extended HPD consisted of a 3m standard extraction arm and a 3m extension. All seven HPDs were equipped with epoxy painted black 150mm diameter flared hoods and assembled complete with wall mounting, control damper and with no internal components.

A TEKA 400V/50Hz ‘Filtercube 4H-4000’ centralised filter unit with a dust extraction efficiency of >99% to meet BGIA certification DIN EN ISO 15012-1 (Health and Safety in welding and allied processes) was used. Dedusting of the filter cartridges is done using a fully automated microprocessor Pulse Control. The ducting used in the project was manufactured from spiral galvanised sheet steel and was installed with inspection doors, flexible hose connections and supporting brackets.

The extended HPDs are used for welding, whilst the standard HPDs which are linked to a wet pre-separator system before joining the main ductwork, are used for grinding operations.

Tim Wilding said: “We fabricate our products using 1mm – 6mm mild steel and stainless steel, occasionally up to 10mm. Typical components are frames for conveyors and machines, tracks for vibratory conveyors, guides and guards. The main welding process we use is TIG welding, however MMA welding is used for high strength welds in vibratory troughs, whilst MIG welding is used on frameworks where large fillet welds are required.

We decided on the flextraction system because with ever increasing Health and Safety legislation, we thought it prudent to install a system that did not just meet legalisation but would be future proof. As it was, the installation was completed in a week, which was to the timescale quoted and compared to our existing portable units the fabricators’ working environments are significantly improved with reduced noise levels. The length and type of HPD are light in weight and are quick and easy to locate for the point of extraction where ever it is needed, which is exactly what we wanted.”

Lee Darton General Manager Products at Flextraction said: “Our fume extraction system is equipped with gate valves so it can be balanced. During commissioning, the system was tuned to achieve the legislative face velocities at each point of extraction, which was easily achieved as the system is capable of 8,000m³/h over 6 extraction points. In fact we were able to reduce the velocities to meet current legislative levels to reduce noise.”

Tim Wilding continued; “The system is inspected every week by the shop floor person responsible and there have been no issues. We encourage individuals to look after their equipment and report any faults, all of which are logged in a book, which is used as part of a safe contractor qualification.”

Overall the system was installed successfully and on time, meets all the extraction requirements of Riley Product Handling and the workshop environment has greatly improved.

New Range of Specialist High Temperature Application Hoses from flextraction

Posted June 08, 2010

A series of suction and blast hoses for use in high temperatures up to 1100°C and chemical applications is now available from flextraction Ltd, supplier and manufacturer of Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) products and authorised distributor of flexible extraction hoses in the UK and Ireland for NORRES Schlauchtechnik GmbH & Co. KG, the Gelsenkirchen, Germany based manufacturer of technical and industrial hoses.

These hoses depending on the type and size, vary in weight, flexibility and compressibility to meet their suitability for the application as well as the temperature ranging from -200°C up to +1100°C.

The hoses in the range made from Thermoplastic polymers are suitable for use in applications where the maximum temperature is 125°C. Hoses made of steel can be used up 400°C, whilst stainless steel hoses can be used up to 600°C. For better thermal insulation, multi-ply constructed hoses using alternating special high temperature webbing and special insulating materials are highly effective up to 1100°C over short periods.

One example of hose in this range is the VA 471 TEFLON ®, double layer, ultra lightweight, compressible hose which is designed for use in applications where operating temperatures can range from approximately -150°C to +250°C and over a short period of time in applications up to 270°C. Typical applications for these hoses include use with equipment associated involving aggressive solids such as dust particles, powder and fibres, also aggressive gaseous applications such as vapours, fumes and smoke, all applications found in the chemical industry, manufacturing de-dusting and suction plants as well as in bellows and compensators.

Another example is the NORRES CP HiTex 483 multi layer high temperature suction and blast hose designed for use in applications can reach up to 1100°C such as dust, powder and fibre solids, gas, vapour and flue gas extraction, blast furnace exhaust and welding fume extraction as well as exhaust extraction in engine construction, engine warming, aircraft and military equipment construction.

Easy Venting to Atmosphere (VTA) Fume Extraction Solutions from flextraction Ltd

Posted September 09, 2009

flextraction Ltd, supplier and manufacturers of Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) products and sole UK representative of TEKA GmbH in Germany, has introduced two venting to atmosphere (VTA) mobile and stationary exhaust systems for the extraction of non-explosive dusts and dust particles, including welding fumes, in restricted working environments. They can also be used for the ventilation of underground pipelines, enclosed containers and rooms.

These low cost, easy to use and install exhaust systems provide a simple answer for venting to atmosphere in restricted working environments.

The mobile exhaust system comprises a 0.75kW 230V 50Hz 2,000m³/hr suction fan with protective grids at both inlet and outlet ends and mounted on a four wheel trolley, a 150mm diameter 6m long suction hose with a suction hood having a magnetic base for easy attachment within the work area and a 160mm diameter, 6m long exhaust hose.

Supplied as complete ready to use units, these systems are ideal for use in shipbuilding, agricultural, general fabrication applications and small to medium workshops, as well as bodyshops. The stationary exhaust system comprises a 0.75kW, 230/415V 2000m³/hr suction fan with motor overload switch, a powder coated sheet steel wall bracket, a 150mm diameter, 3m long self supporting suction hose type arm with internal joints and suction hood with a magnetic base, flexible 160mm diameter exhaust ducting up to 5m in length and a 160mm diameter exhaust connection with a protective grid. This system is ideal as a permanent system for use in small to medium sized workshops, including bodyshops.

Local extractor arms from flextraction offer greater flexability

Posted August 18, 2009

The Fumex range of Terfu brand local extractor arms is now available with 100mm diameter arms in addition to the existing 50mm and 75mm diameter arms from flextraction Ltd, suppliers and manufacturers of Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) products and sole UK representative of Fumex AB in Sweden.

These extractor arms are designed for bench, wall or ceiling mounting with airflows ranging from 75m3/h to 450m3/h and have the option of either two or three friction joints depending on the application. They all have an easy to access handle for simple adjustment as well as a 360° rotational swivel as standard. A single joint version is also available for bench mounting.

Terfu local extractor arms are made for use where great flexibility is required in pharmaceutical, hospital and food laboratories, universities, colleges, schools and light production such as gluing, brazing, TIG welding and handling solvents as well as High Street nail bars and hairdressing salons

There are 4 models that make up the range:

The Standard version with polypropylene joints and anodised aluminium tubes can be used for the extraction of most airborne contaminants.

The PP version with joints and tubes made in recyclable polypropylene and all parts in contact with the air stream made of acid resistant SS2343 stainless steel are designed for use in the extraction of high concentration corrosive contaminants found in pharmaceutical and chemical industry laboratories.

The ESD EN100015-1 approved version, which has conducting polypropylene joints and anodised aluminium tubes, is designed for use in environments where the need to eliminate the risks of sparks is paramount such as the electronics industry.

The ATEX 94/9/EC category 2 for gases and dust version, with conductive recyclable polypropylene joints and tubes as well as stainless steel parts that come into contact with the air stream is ideal for use in laboratories, chemical and petrochemical, gas distribution, paint manufacturing and pharmaceutical industries.

A wide range of hoods, ranging from suction, flexible nozzles, metal, dome, square and flat screen hoods are available for each model, plus reduction sleeves and protective grills to prevent large objects entering the system.

Mistral Range of DELFIN Industrial Vacuums from FLEXTRACTION has Expanded

Posted June 16, 2009

flextraction Ltd, supplier and manufacturer of Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) products and preferred supplier in the UK and Ireland for Italian industrial vacuum equipment manufacturer, Delfin s.r.l has announced the launch of a further two industrial vacuums to their existing range of Mistral single phase and 3 phase industrial vacuums.

These vacuums are designed for a multitude of cleaning applications including cleaning of electronic equipment, vehicle cleaning in car washes and workshops, cleaning of ovens and other equipment used in the bakery and food industries as well as general industrial cleaning of floors, equipment and facilities in factories and offices.

The Mistral 202 DS is a new vacuum for collecting dust and solid material with an accumulation of static electricity as well as very fine dust and corrosive dust and material, whilst the Mistral 505 is a new wet and dry vacuum.

The Mistral 202 DS features a 360m/hr maximum air flow and a 2,300mm H0 maximum vacuum provided by 2 x single phase, 230V 50-60Hz independently operated by-pass motors in a noise reducing plastic casing producing just 74dB(A). These motors are designed to convey the exhaust air downwards to reduce dust levels in the working area.

Other features include a high surface cartridge with a 30,000cm² filter surface and filtration efficiency of M CAT (BIA)/1 micron, a manual filter shaker to help remove dust from the filter, a 60mm diameter suction inlet with 50, 38 and 32mm hose connectors below the filter, allowing dust and solid material vacuuming at the same time.

The Mistral 501 Wet & Dry features a 180m³/hr maximum air flow and a 2,500mm H²0 maximum vacuum provided by a single phase 230V 50/60Hz carbon brush type by-pass motor, whilst the suction inlet can be used with hoses ranging from 50-32mm diameter. The dust collecting kit is a bag type polyester filter with a filtration efficiency of L CAT (BIA)/3 micron. The wet kit is a floating device to protect the motor from liquids, foams and other solid objects. Discharge from the 50 litre container is by a flexible hose.

A comprehensive hose kit with the option to select from a wide range of cleaning nozzles, including static mounted floor brushes and squeegees, is available for both vacuums, which are mounted on 4 wheel chassis with two pivoting casters, one of which has a brake and both come with a 2-year warranty.

flextraction Ltd Exhibit Dust & Fume Extraction Products at Health & Safety 09

Posted January 29, 2009

flextraction Ltd, supplier and manufacturer of Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) products for dust and fume extraction in the work-place is exhibiting a number of new and existing products on stand number L36 at Southern Manufacturing 09 (11^th – 12^th February 2009) in Farnborough, Hampshire and stand number 092 at Health & Safety 09 (24^th – 25^th February 2009) in Sandown Park, Surrey.

Products from TEKA GmbH, Germany, localised extraction arms manufacturer, Fumex AB, Sweden, localised extraction arms and filters, Delfin of Italy, industrial high vacuum cleaning systems, as well as PISAC International’s range of their axial, centrifugal, roof and centrifugal smoke exhaust fans will be shown.

Products on show will include:

TEKA's 'Caremaster SF’ a BIA European Standard approved mobile one way welding fume filter for industrial fume extraction with a fan capacity of 2,500m3/hour and a dust collection efficiency of around 99.9% using a class W3 filter

Fumex's compact and lightweight LF70 mobile filter is designed for extraction of gases, fumes and dust in laboratories, hospitals, pharmaceutical manufacturing, electronic component manufacturing, and laser branding as well as welding. With a highly efficient 0-70 l/second airflow, low noise level up to 56dB(A), it can be used with a wide range of easy to change gas and particle filters.

Fumex's LFK 175 single station local fume extractor designed to remove, fumes, gases and dust from the work station using a Terfu 75mm diameter arm with a maximum airflow of 0-80 l/second will be shown. Using a H13 filter, it is 99.99% efficient for 0.3µm particles.

Details of flextraction's own brand products will be available, as well as information on Industrial Cleaning Equipment, including Delfin's vacuum cleaner for the suction of slightly contaminated liquids, swarfs and accompanying coolants, lubricants and wet industrial waste.

Also available will be details on a new range of industrial Procool Spot Coolers from Ecotechnics S.p.A. based in Italy providing cool air where you need it in the workshop.

Flextraction Helps Severn Valley Railway Steam Ahead

Posted August 03, 2007

When the Severn Valley Railway (SVR) in Shropshire, needed support with their welding fume problems, they turned to, Flextraction, who supplied their latest TEKA mobile cartridge filter welding fume extractor - Strongmaster UPF.

It has a welded steel body housing a high efficiency filter cartridge, 3,000 m3/hr fan unit and 1.1kW motor. A filter full indicator is standard, which tells the user when to clean the filter cartridge. This is carried out quickly and safely by the unique way TEKA has designed the safe clean chamber. The cartridge filter also enables the unit to be also used for grinding.

The SVR application was unusual having its roots at the heart of the steam age - the steam engine firebox. One area in particular, repairing the fireboxes, was creating a problem with fumes and dust. Both MIG and TIG welding processes operating at over 400 amps, are used on a range of materials. The main concern was the firebox lining, which was 16mm triple dioxide phosphorous arsenic copper. SVR's welder David Howell often has to climb into the firebox to cut away and replace panels. David said, "The fumes were considerable and we needed a flexible and mobile solution that could reach the areas of weld, wherever I was, on or even in the firebox."

Due to the workshop environment and the high degree of filtration required, there was a need for a long reach and flexible extraction arm. The stability of the TEKA system enabled Flextraction to fit a 4m long self-supporting arm allowing David to reach right into the firebox.

David and his colleagues have noticed a considerable difference in the workshop atmosphere since purchasing the unit. David continued, "The workshop used to fill up with fumes and our face masks became very dirty. This no longer happens and we are delighted with the TEKA Strongmaster. I can be welding anywhere on the railway and as the extraction equipment is so mobile I am able to take with me, where ever I go." Non welders and support staff within the workshop also commented how they are no longer exposed to the fumes created by the welding and grinding operations.

Severn Valley Railway dates back decades to the Hanbury to Shrewsbury line via Bridgnorth. When it was broken up by British Rail, a society was formed, uncannily at the local pub at one end of the line, and they saved this beautiful stretch of historical railway.

The society has a large and impressive range of steam engines and a continuous programme of repairs, maintenance and overhauls is carried out at their extensive Bridgnorth workshops.

Wide Range of ATEX-Approved Local Extractor Arms from Flextraction

Posted June 25, 2007

Flextraction Ltd, the Melton Mowbray, specialist solution provider capturing at source all forms of airborne contamination – dust, fume and oil mist and sole UK representatives for Fumex AB, Sweden localised extraction arms and filters manufacturer has introduced a wide range of Fumex ATEX approved local explosive gas and dust extractor arms, which meet European directive 94/9 EC category 2 for equipment intended for potentially explosive atmospheres.

Models R EX, R EXH 1500, 2000, 3000 and 4000 available in lengths of 1.5m, 2m, 3m and 4m as well as RZ EX 4500 and 6500 with longer arms up to 6,6m, are designed for use in the chemical, petrochemical, gas distribution, food processing, pharmaceuticals and paint manufacturing industries as well as laboratories.

The wall bracket and arm for the R EX models are made of powder coated steel with conductive metallic grey paint, whilst a stainless steel spring balances the arm’s dead weight, the anti-static polyester-polyurethane hose is ATEX marked R<108Ω and they have a manual damper with conductive knob.

The RZ EX models have all parts earthed and the arm structure is supplied complete with steel wall bracket finished in conductive powder coating. The longer arms are all one piece providing a low pressure drop, limiting dust deposits for easy cleaning.

The R EXH models have stainless steel, SS EN 2343 wall brackets and arms with stainless steel components, joints, screws and conical hood for use in aggressive environments and for easy cleaning.

The smooth bore hoses are easily changeable and available in 75, 100, 125, 160 and 200mm diameters in a range of lengths up a maximum working radius of 6,270 mm, whilst all externally mounted components are designed to reduce any solids build up. Accessories include conical hoods as well as a range of ceiling mounting brackets.

New Mobile Industrial Fume Extractor From Flextraction

Posted February 05, 2007

The TEKA Caremaster SF is a new BIA European Standard approved mobile one way industrial fume extractor available from Flextraction Ltd, the Melton Mowbray, specialist solution provider capturing at source all forms of airborne contamination – dust, fume and oil mist and sole UK representative for TEKA GmbH, Germany, localised extraction arms manufacturer.

Designed for most types of industrial fume extraction including welding, the 1,1kW, 400V, 50Hz 3-phase motor on this extractor produces a fan capacity of 2,500m3/hour with a low operating noise level of 75dB(A) and a dust collection efficiency of around 99,9% using a class W3 filter for when high alloy steel with >30% nickel based alloys are involved. It is very user friendly incorporating a large access door for easy filter changing and has both an audible and visual alarm when the filter needs changing. It is supplied with a durable filter cassette and pre-filter unit with a large surface filter fleece and is BIA approved for use with most TEKA extraction arms up to 12 meters in length.

Other features include a specially designed sealing face lifter for the filter seal inserts producing an airtight seal allowing air to re-circulate through the filter inserts, a running hours meter, four casters with 2 having brakes and a cable reel. It weighs 128kg and measures 665mm x 681mm x 995mm.

TEKA’s Caremaster is also available as a wall mounted version or as a two extraction arm model.