It's easy to overlook the important role proper filtration plays within the powder coating process when really, it is one of the key elements to successfully achieving a nice clean finish. Without proper filtration, powder coaters can run into problems such as contamination, uneven powder layers, lack of negative charge etc. So what qualifies as proper or good filtration?
There is an easy formula to figuring this out. What were looking for here is the CFM (cubic feet per minute) of air that your filtration system needs in order to create that negative pressure zone that acts like an invisible barrier. This invisible barrier is necessary to prevent powder from getting all over your shop but even more importantly, to prevent contamination like dust and dirt from getting into your powder coat booth while spraying, risking the chance of contamination ending up on your piece. The formula needed to figure out your CFM is quite simple. Multiply the height of your booths opening by the width of the opening and than multiply this number by 100. Why do we multiple this number by 100? You need to have 100 CFM per square foot. So for example, if you have 5x5 ft booth, 5x5 = 25. 25 x 100 = 2500 CFM. So in this case, you need a minimum of 2500 CFM of air draw to create the negative pressured air zone that will act act as a barrier.
So now that you know a little more about the benefits of proper filtration, you can understand why it is so important to keep your filtration vents clean. If you let powder particles build up within the filters, they won't filter properly which means running the risk of having a weaker negative pressured air zone. When the negative pressured air zone is weaker, the barrier that keeps dust out is also weaker as well as the barrier that keeps powder within the booth preventing a big mess. Unrelated to filtration, it is also important to properly clean your booth weekly or even daily depending on how often it its used. This reduces cross contamination and will increase the life of your filters.
The lifespan of filters can vary based on their volume, type, and maintenance schedule. However, when the time does come for you to replace your filters, Powder Buy The Pound has got you covered! We sell a wide variety of different sized filters and can also special order certain types and sizes upon request. Whether you need help placing an order, have a special custom order request, or just have a few questions in general, give us a call at 615-776-7600! We are always happy to help.