Filtration for spray booths is essential for their smooth and safe operation. To work correctly, the filtration used has to achieve a balance between allowing enough airflow through the booth and removing contaminants from the exhaust. Getting the right filters for your set up is therefore vital.
There are, of course, government guidelines on safe spray booth operation. The filters used need to meet the appropriate standards for removing contaminants from the air.
When to change
The filters in your spray booth need to be changed on a regular basis. Failure to do so will lead to a deterioration in the quality of paint jobs produced, so changing your filters regularly helps your business. How frequently you need to make the change depends on the type of filter. Cross-draught intake filters need changing at between one and three months, depending on how heavily the booth is used, whereas down-draught filters need changing at between six months and one year.
Exhaust filters need to be changed more often, as they work harder, and should be changed every couple of weeks. Again, you may need to do this more often depending on usage. If working with water-based paints, for example, proper filtration is essential and you may need to change the filter on a more regular basis than with other types of paint.
Changing the filter
For them to work properly, filters have to be installed in the equipment correctly. When you buy spray booth filters from suppliers such as https://www.dustspares.co.uk/spray-booth-filters/, they are made to fit in a particular way. There is usually an open weave side and a sticky side. The sticky side should generally face into the spray booth, but check your booth maker’s documentation if you are unsure.
It is also important to get the right size filters for your installation. Ensure that you get not only the correct surface area but also the correct thickness. Some filters are supplied as a roll so that they can be cut to size to suit different applications.
Paint arrestor filters are often supplied in roll form. It is important to measure the existing filter and the frame it fits into carefully before cutting the new one to size, as any gaps will lead to problems later. As always, follow the ‘measure twice, cut once’ rule.
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