Enhancing laboratory safety with Nederman's extraction arms

Nederman were recently awarded a contract to design, supply, install and commission a state-of-the-art dust extraction system for a newly established laboratory for specialist building products.

With a brand-new installation, the objective was to develop an efficient and streamlined solution that effectively tackled concrete dust issues from the outset while prioritising energy conservation.

Nederman’s worked closely with a design consultant and the appointed mechanical contractor which resulted in an extraction system offering peak-performance and max energy saving.

Challenges with concrete dust

Concrete dust contains respirable crystalline silica (RCS) which if inhaled can lead to respiratory silicosis or scarring of the lungs, which can result in shortness of breath or loss of lung function. As an abrasive, concrete dust can also cause excess damage to machinery once it works it’s way into machinery’s moving parts. To address this challenge, the system needed to be meticulously designed to reduce dust buildup and minimise the risk to human health, prevent damage to machinery and reduce energy costs. Additionally, the ductwork had to be inconspicuous, with minimal junctions, and include inspection points for easy monitoring and maintenance.

Smooth, effective resource-conscious airflow

Nederman's solution team devised a comprehensive 6-point extraction system, deploying NedermanFX and NEX MD extraction arms strategically placed in key areas of the facility. This at-source extraction approach significantly reduced dust inhalation and airborne particles. The use of galvanized steel QF Nordfab ducting minimized obtrusiveness, ensuring efficient airflow with a seamless connection to an Auto M 30 self-cleaning bag filter featuring an integrated 4kW fan.

The system, designed for 50% utilisation, incorporates intelligent controls to optimise performance. The Nederman intelligent cleaning controller with HVAC inverter drive adjusts the airflow for the perfect extraction rate. An automatic start-up/shut-off system operates based on the first/last point, promoting energy efficiency. Manual intervention is available for increased fan speed, ensuring flexibility and future-proofing for the dust extraction installation.

Advantages of working with Nederman

• Fully project managed installation: From conceptualisation to installation, Nederman oversees all aspects of the project to deliver a comprehensive solution tailored to your needs.
• Compliance with current regulations: Nederman systems are rigorously tested and commissioned to ensure adherence to COSHH, HSG258 and ATEX regulations and standards where applicable.
• Full training provided: Nederman offers thorough training to equip personnel with the knowledge and skills needed to operate and maintain the system effectively.
• After sales service and support: A complete after-sales service is part of Nederman's turnkey solution, offering maintenance, service & spares, and Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) testing.
• Turnkey solution: Nederman provides a holistic turnkey solution, guaranteeing the seamless integration and continuous operation of the extraction and filtration system into your facility.
• Diverse stakeholder collaboration: Nederman has a proven track record of successfully working with a range of stakeholders, including architects, consultants, contractors, and end users.

In summary, Nederman's resource-conscious concrete dust extraction system successfully addressed the challenges posed by concrete dust in the laboratory environment, offering an efficient, energy-saving, and fully managed solution. We ensure not only compliance with regulations but also ongoing support and maintenance to meet and exceed industry standards in a sustainable manner for your business. Contact your Nederman expert to find the right solution to your challenges.