Your filter receiver should already be on a maintenance schedule, along with the rest of your dust collector system and any attached equipment. Regular maintenance will ensure that you catch potential issues long before they become apparent—or even worse—active. Sometimes equipment has a mind of its own, and problems occur whether you’re on the lookout for them or not. In cases like these, your filter receiver (and its attendant system) will deliver distinct and recognizable noises, sights, and changes in performance that will let you know something is up. To make you better versed in their “language,” here’s how to know if your filter receiver needs repair.
First Off, What Is It?
A filter receiver is a device inside your dust collection system that separates the material being transported by air or other gases through a pneumatic conveyance system. Because of the filter receiver, you can release the gas and retain the goods for storage or reuse. They’re often made of carbon steel, stainless steel, or similar substances (depending on what they’re used to separate—food and organic items are better served by stainless steel, for example.) They’re round or cylindrical to employ and maintain the power and pressure of the vacuum generated by the system.
They also contain filters to aid in separating the materials which can be cleaned or replaced. Filter receivers can be low maintenance since their design provides devices that keep the machine clean and free of dust and blockage. A working filter receiver keeps the material flowing, protects your employees’ lungs and general health, and helps save money by facilitating productivity and preventing waste. However, they still encounter issues that require semi-regular surveillance.
Low Output
The biggest sign that your filter receiver and dust collection system are not working at maximum efficiency is a low amount of collected dust. If the hopper is low, then the system is getting interfered with. The simplest solution is to assess whether you have allowed the device to become blocked. Dust accumulation within the machine is a common problem. Regularly discard what’s been collected and unclog the point where dust is discharged. If that doesn’t work, then something else is wrong.
Check, Clean, or Replace the Filters
Filters need to provide a certain amount of blockage in order to prevent dust from going any further. The spaces between the fabric or other material help trap dust, and as they acquire a thin layer of that dust it helps filter out even more. But there is a point where the filter no longer does its job because it has gotten clogged by dust. Follow standard operating procedures and protocols for cleaning your filters. Replace the filters every six months at least, but always remember to consult the manual—it could state more or less time in between changes. Checking it is always the best course of action.
Under Pressure
Never neglect the gauges. Watch the levels and ensure they don’t drop or soar in too short a time. Just like low output, gauges can indicate if your filter or vacuum receiver and overall system are working too hard or hardly working. Both high pressure and lower pressure can indicate a blockage. Start with the filters, but investigate the surrounding pipes and collection tank or area to see if something is blocked or the filter receiver requires cleaning.
Check the Settings
Familiarity with your dust collection system is essential. This will help you fix problems when they arise—so don’t simply be passingly familiar with the surface-level workings of it. You must know the details of the machine if you want to fix it.
Erroneous settings can interfere with dust collection, so experiment with different levels of pressure and so forth to ensure your system is operating under optimal levels. If things continue to act strangely, it might be time to run a diagnostic on the vacuum receiver and other parts to find out if they have suddenly become incompatible with the controls.
The Great Escape
Bad emissions are another indicator of how to know if your filter receiver needs repair. Your system should be entirely self-contained and never allow a single speck of duct to escape. However, if your system shows any signs of dust gathering or spouting out—especially from the filter receiver—it’s big trouble. Unlike pipes and joints, there shouldn’t be any weak spots in the device. Nevertheless, if you see the tiniest bit of dust emerging from it, it’s time for a repair or even—unfortunately—a replacement.
You should perform regular emissions tests on your system; sometimes the danger is invisible. Your equipment already needs to meet EPA standards, and you will be fined if an inspector discovers that you’ve allowed your machinery to emit dust and noxious gas to the detriment of your employees’ health. Perform regular tests and schedule immediate maintenance, repair, or replacement for your filter receiver.
Your Fans Are Faltering or Failing
Fans are the force behind the vacuum that powers your system. If they start to fail because of dust accumulation or obstruction, something isn’t right. Check to see that fans are spinning freely and swiftly and are kept clean of dust and grime. Dust can collect in the area between the fan and the mechanisms beneath it, which is a process known as nesting. Keep this area clear during regularly scheduled maintenance. Other than a basic skimming of dust, the fan should remain unimpeded. If they are not, check the filter receiver and the ductwork.
Have Any Questions?
If you have any questions about your DoverMEI filter receiver or any of our other products, services, and supplies, please don’t hesitate to contact us here or at (800) 772-0053. We are eager to discuss your projects and provide insight into proactive solutions.
