A graphics and signage production company based in London has implemented a new local exhaust ventilation (LEV) solution for various printing processes.
Producing large-scale graphics for venues such as museums, galleries and exhibitions meant an industrial ventilation solution for newly installed machinery needed to encompass multiple workspace areas.
Fercell initially conducted a site survey to ensure a complete understanding of the processes carried out onsite, along with the workspace requirements, in order to propose a fitting LEV solution. Another benefit of a site survey is to ensure any predetermined ideas for equipment will be suitable for the solution, comply with COSHH regulations and ultimately protect workers and anyone in the vicinity from exposure to fume, dust and vapour.
Within industrial printing workshops, control measures must also be put in place to address the potential hazards of fire and explosion risks from printing, as covered by Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (HSE, 2026). This includes providing LEV at printing units and having adequate ventilation in the workspace.
An LEV Solution
The solution consists of multiple fume extraction hoods, connected to a close-coupled network of ducting, alongside on-tool extraction and an MEF 500 fan sited in an acoustic soundbox enclosure. Following filtration, any clean air is exhausted back to the atmosphere via an externally sited high-flux discharge cowl.
Galvanised fume extraction hoods offer an element of flexibility, allowing a variety of mobile printing processes to be carried out.
Ideal for both industrial and commercial applications, the extraction hoods are highly efficient at capturing smoke and fumes, which offers an alternative adjustable solution to extraction arms, which in this case are better suited to the project requirements.
Each extraction hood measures 2,200 x 1,000 mm, providing ample coverage, with the option to expand the modular series in the future if required. The hoods are also equipped with integrated LED spotlights, adding improved visibility during operation.
On-tool extraction for the printing machinery provides a solution for fume and particulate matter to be captured at source. Whilst fume tends to be denser and may be partially visible when compared to fine dust concentrations, it’s essential to remove all contaminants. This also avoids any unnecessary exposure to anyone in the vicinity and helps to create a cleaner, safer working environment.
Intended for use in demanding industrial extraction applications, the MEF fan is equipped with backward impellers for optimum efficiency and is designed for a mix of airflows up to 23,500 m³/h.
By encasing the MEF 500 centrifugal fan in an acoustic enclosure, operating noise is minimised by up to 10 dB(A). Constructed from galvanised steel, it ensures durability and corrosion protection. Designed with a strategically placed grid at the bottom of the sound enclosure, the MEF fan is kept cool.
Installation of the LEV system has allowed print production capabilities onsite to be increased, allowing for the expansion of print services offered.
Local exhaust ventilation systems are designed to fit your process and project requirements, with a range of options available. Whether you’re looking for a solution for dust, fume or spray extraction, Fercell can provide a solution. To discuss your ventilation requirements contact us here.
