Air filtration in your workshop

Here's a couple of basic rules based on "Minimum level of dust in your workshop" according to our experience.

The two most important criteria for JET filtration system are the volume of filtered air and filters, which help you to remove various particles of different sizes. JET filters can filter particles up to 1 micron, which are particles generated when finely sanding wood.

If you want to determine the size or required air flow, use this formula: The dimension of your workshop (length x width x height) times the number of air exchanges per hour (ideally 6-8) divided by 60. This will give you an indication in cubic metres per minute, an indication stated on air filters. Most manufacturers list the volume of air per minute, mainly it is the power of the ventilator. Be aware, however, that you will experience losses induced by the filters, those can be app. from 25 - 40% for filtering, according to the type of filter, that is why you can use the loss coefficient 1,3.

Calculation: length 7 m, width 4 m, height of ceiling 3 m. Necessary performance of the air filter in m3/min = length x width x number of circulations per hour x loss coefficient / 60 = 7 x 4 x 3 x 6 x 1,3 / 60 = 10,92 = 10-11m3/min
Meaning you can use the Jet AFS-500 filter, however, we recommend the AFS-1000B, which fulfills these requirements on the lowest performance.  

The placement of the filter is of the same importance as the size of the filter. Place the filtration unit app. 2,5 - 2,8 m above the floor (not lower than 1,8 or 2/3 of the height of the ceiling). Place the unit along the longer wall so that the entry port (suction) is distanced app. 1/3 of the shorter wall. Mount up to 10-15 cm away from the wall.

The exhaust is the biggest determinant of the air circulation and filtering quality. ... We don't recommend installing the filter completely on the ceiling.  The location relative to the front door or window is important as well. Open doors can completely change the air flow. The outlet lets out clean air, that is the spot you want to work in.  If your workshop is oddly shaped or you work in two smaller rooms, it's better to have two smaller filters than a big one.

Do not rely only on the air filter, it's not just a dust collector. The purpose of the air filter is to keep the level of airborne dust to a minimum.
To extract dust from machines, use dust extractors. To extract power tools, use vacuum cleaners.

Air filters do not replace dust extractors!!!


Try to vacuum and extract efficiently from all machines and power tools.

And finally, one lesson that says: spending money for a quality extractor and air filter is a much better investment than trying to save your health afterwards.  Your nose and lungs really don't benefit from the dust in your workshop. Plus, you can't really work efficiently with dust everywhere.