How to protect and store the dust collector

Long-term storage procedures are used to prevent damage and maintenance operations of dust collector equipment that cannot be installed immediately at the job site. In general, the manufacture and transportation of equipment should be matched to the site preparation conditions so that the dust collector can be installed directly after it has reached the site. However, in many cases, this is the case: after the dust collector is purchased and manufactured, it is transported to plant, but there is no way to match the installation and the factory stoppage time. The installed engineering team's idle time and the factory downtime cannot match.

This situation has caused the dust collector to be placed on-site, months or even half a year. If this is the case, follow the procedure below to protect the precipitator.

1. Covering the opening

The dust collector will be transported to the job site or factory, and all openings will be completely sealed and tightly packed as close as possible. Usually, the opening will be covered with plywood and plastic. If you need to move the dust collector, make sure all of these covers remain intact.

When storing the equipment, block or cover any unprotected openings to prevent rain, snow and other moisture from entering the interior of the precipitator. This can be done with plastic wrap, plastic stopper or wooden lid, depending on the size of the opening.

2. Store the device in a controlled environment

If possible, the precipitator casing, accessories, and accessories should be stored in indoor temperature and humidity controlled environment. For long-term storage (more than one month), place the dry agent in any electrical enclosure to prevent moisture from damaging the electronic components.

If there is not enough indoor storage space, the dust collector components, filter bags, bag cages, etc. should be stored indoors or in a completely closed trailer or shed. The dust collector housing and larger parts can be stored in an outdoor shelter or supported by a shelf and covered with a tarpaulin.

3. Other sprayed brackets should also be protected

Structural steel brackets, frame steel structures, handrails, and platform sections will be transported as separate components as described in the unit bill of materials. All steel will be painted according to the same rules. The paint will provide sufficient surface protection for a period of time.

As a general rule, all equipment is painted, so it has resistance to metal attack. However, materials such as support steel are usually stored on the side, and rain/snow/soil may accumulate on horizontal surfaces. These can accelerate potential corrosion, especially because of the extended contact time between the surface and moisture. If long-term storage is required, the support and access of steel should be carefully stored and protected, especially during seasonal or severe weather conditions.

4. Remember to check regularly

All equipment stored outdoors should be inspected regularly to monitor the integrity of the equipment and the condition of the painted surface. Cracks on any covering should be repaired immediately. Any area of the dust collector, ancillary equipment, or supporting steel components that collect water or debris should be supported to reduce the likelihood of future problems. These areas can be supported by wood, other steel components, etc. Like a camping tent, there is a central pole or beam fixed to prevent rain from flowing from the top to where it might eventually leak inside.

5. Accessories protection

(1) Rotary air gate valve

Remember that the inner surface of the rotary valve is uncoated. Spray the inside of the valve with anti-rust and anti-corrosion oil before storing it. In addition, metal covers for the inlet and outlet flanges are provided and mounted for each flange, each flange having at least four cap screws. Keep these covers until you are ready to use the valve. Next, completely fill the worm gear reducer with a worm and replace the vented plug with a sturdy plug. Always keep a ventilated plug for future use. Then, read and follow the instructions of the manufacturer of the motor, the retarder ring, and other equipment manufacturers for long-term storage. After completing the above steps, insert all the wire box openings on the motor and switch and store the valve from the floor in a dry, well-ventilated room area without extreme temperature changes. Rotate the rotor several times every six months, placing the rotor at different angular positions after each rotation.

(2) Screw conveyor

The inner surface of the screw conveyor is usually uncoated. Before storing, spray the inside of the tank and tighten with the rust preventive oil used on the rotary airlock valve. Provide and install metal or wooden covers for the inlet and outlet flanges again. Make sure the cover is properly seated to provide adequate protection for internal components. Completely fill the worm gear reducer with oil and replace the filling plug of the exhaust with a sturdy plug. Keep the vented plug for future use. Then, read and follow the instructions of the motor, reducer and other equipment manufacturers for long-term storage. Finally, insert all the wire box openings on the motor and switch and store the screw conveyor from the floor in a dry, well-ventilated room area without extreme temperature changes. Each rotation is repeated several times every six months and is held at a different angular position after each rotation.

(3) Fan

To protect the fan from dust and moisture, use a tarpaulin or other weather shield to protect it. Please take care to avoid the use of black plastic tarps that may cause the equipment to condense.

The bearings should be cleaned with new grease every month to remove condensate and the fan impeller should be manually rotated at least once every two weeks. This prevents the bearing from "setting" and redistributing the bearing components.

The fan must also be isolated from nearby vibrations. Higher overall vibration levels can prematurely damage the fan and motor bearings. When you are ready to use the equipment, clean the bearings with new grease before starting. Perform this procedure to the operating level according to the bearing manufacturer's specifications.