Do Mobile Welding Fume Extractors Work

 

 

The Mobile welding fume extractor suits many Australian workshops, but is it necessarily the best welding smoke extractor system for every application?  In this article we cover:

What is a Mobile Fume Extractor?
Mobile vs Other Types of Extractors
Different Types of Mobile Extractors & How They Compare
ALLCLEAR Fume Extractors

 

 

A Mobile Welding Fume Extractor, or fume cart, is a portable device designed to remove harmful fumes and particulate matter generated during welding processes. These extractors typically feature a flexible arm or hose that can be positioned near the welding area to capture fumes at the source. The device filters the captured air to remove contaminants, for a safer and cleaner working environment. Mobile units are equipped with wheels or casters, allowing easy relocation to different workshop areas as needed. 

 

Here we cover some of the key pros and cons of the 4 main types of welding fume extraction systems: Mobile Fume Extractors, Fume Extraction MIG/TIG Torches, PAPR Welding Helmets, and Ducted Central Fume Extraction systems:

Fume Control System

Pros ✅

Cons ❌

Mobile Fume Extractor

Fume Extraction MIG or TIG Welding Torch

Welding Helmet with PAPR Respirator

Ducted / Central Fume Extraction System

 

Got a Burning Fume Question? Ask Here 

 

 

While they serve the same function and may have similar appearance, between different welding smoke extractor brands and models there are some fundamental differences 'under the hood', which can affect:

Here's some of the main differences to be aware of:

Obviously you don't want to invest in a fume extractor, only to find that it doesn't have enough airflow or suction power to do the job. There are significant differences between the air flow rate (m³ per hour) between brands and models, so it pays to check this out. Keep in mind that airflow rates are measured when the filter is new/clean, and the advertised flow rate is not the whole story. 

It's also just as important to be aware that the air flow rate typically reduces as the filter becomes full (because there is more air flow obstruction), resulting in lower suction and reduced extraction efficiency.

This can be more significant for some types of filter systems vs others, as shown in the following diagram, and explained in more detail below. 

 

This factor is often not given enough consideration prior to purchase of an extraction unit. The two questions here are a) what do replacement filters cost? and b) how often will I need to replace them?

Replacement filters can cost anywhere from around $500 to well over $1,000. However, the price alone is somewhat meaningless without some indication of service life. A filter might be higher cost than others, but last longer in service and result in a lower overall cost.

Determining out how long a filter will last is one of those "how long is a piece of string" questions. There are so many factors and variables that can affect the service life (volume of fume, frequency of use, etc), that most manufacturers will only provide a ballpark figure at best.

To get some indication, or comparison, of the "lifetime" filter costs between one unit and another, it's critical to understand the type of filter system used. Read on!

 

All mobile extractors have replaceable filters. The three main types of filters used are Box Filters, Disposable Cartridge Filters, and Cleanable Filters, and here's how they compare:

Type

Pros ✅

Cons ❌

Box (or Cassette) Filter

Usually box-like in shape, typically comprising of main filter plus pre-filter.

Disposable (Non-Cleanable) Cartridge Filter

Single disposable unit, without pre-filters. 

ALLCLEAR Manually-Cleanable Filter

Designed to be cleaned and re-used, with compressed air nozzle via a special access door.

 

 

 

 

ALLCLEAR Auto-Cleanable Cartridge Filter

Designed to be cleaned and re-used, with compressed air via a built-in automatic cleaning system.

Same advantages as above, plus:

ALLCLEAR Spark Deflector

In addition to cleanable filters, ALLCLEAR units also have a spark deflection plate that shields the main filter from coarse particles & sparks, and redirects them to a dust collection tray/bin.

 

Ask a Question | Get a Quote 

 

 

If you're considering a mobile welding fume extractor, or want to know more, we'd love to help. The ALLCLEAR range of mobile extraction units by Weldclass have been tried and proven in Australia for many years.

ALLCLEAR units offer a unique combination of features, that continue to deliver value long after the initial purchase, including:

View The ALLCLEAR Range 

For more info, or to get a quote, complete the enquiry form below.

 

Tell us what you're looking for in the form below, and one of our fume specialists will respond asap:

 

This article is intended to assist with enquiries regarding: How do I choose a fume extractor?, Welding fume extraction systems australia, Welding fume extractor australia, Welding fume extractor portable, Why are fume extractors so expensive? How do Allclear Mobile Fume Extractors compare with other brands?

While all care has been taken to ensure the information presented is accurate, Weldclass accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions in this article. The information given is of a general nature only, intended to provide readers with a basic overview of the topics presented, does not take into account the specific circumstances of any individual application or situation, may be simplified and/or abbreviated, will not be a complete or exhaustive resource, and should not be used as a substitute for professional advice or personal research and due diligence. All applicable standards, industry guidelines and regulations should be consulted and followed. E.& O.E.

 

 

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