Above: Richard Stewart, Clean Air Consultant from Egmont Air, pictured with the ATEX Dust Extractor System.
The Challenge: Outdated Equipment Hampering Educational Excellence
At a renowned College in Auckland, an aging 1980s static baghouse dust extraction system was creating significant operational challenges in their Hard Materials workshop. The primary issues were two-fold: poor airflow due to dust accumulation on static filter bags, and excessive fan noise disrupting the learning environment. Despite replacing filter bags two years prior, the workshop continued to experience inadequate—and in some cases completely absent—airflow, while noise levels remained problematic. A modern solution was clearly needed, and an ATEX Dust Extractor system would ultimately prove to be the answer to these persistent challenges.
Taking Action: A Research-Driven Approach
Recognising the urgency of the situation, the Auckland College initiated a comprehensive research process in January 2021. This methodical approach included:
- Contacting multiple dust extraction companies
- Issuing a formal Request for Quotation (RFQ)
- Consulting the Ministry of Education’s resources, particularly their Designing Quality Learning Spaces guidelines on indoor air quality and thermal comfort
The Egmont Air Solution
After thorough evaluation, Egmont Air emerged as the preferred supplier. Our proposal offered two key advantages:
- Competitive pricing
- A Ministry of Education-compliant ATEX Dust Extractor System
The ATEX Dust Extractor System utilises compressed air technology to pulse-clean the filter cartridges, preventing the dust accumulation issues that plagued the previous system. This innovative approach ensures consistent performance without the maintenance problems of static bag filters.
Implementation Timeline and Results
The Auckland College ordered the new system in November 2023, with installation completed in July 2024. The results speak for themselves:
- Improved Airflow: All machines now operate at optimum suction levels of >23metres per second.
- Reduced Noise Levels: Thanks to the variable speed scroll fan design, noise measurements show just 71dB at three meters from the unit—a significant improvement over the previous system
Project Completion and Validation
The successful implementation of the Egmont Air dust extraction system was formally recognised when the final installation report was presented to the College Board on August 6, 2024. Both original challenges—inadequate airflow and excessive noise—have been comprehensively addressed.
Above: ATEX Dust Extractor System at the Auckland College.
Why Choose Egmont Air?
This case study demonstrates our commitment to providing educational institutions with dust extraction solutions that:
- Meet or exceed Ministry of Education compliance requirements
- Deliver long-term operational efficiency
- Create healthier learning environments through improved air quality
- Reduce noise pollution in educational settings
If your educational workshop is facing similar challenges with outdated dust extraction systems, contact Egmont Air today to explore how our ATEX Dust Extractor systems can transform your facility.