Customers bring up all sorts of interesting questions with our teams. So, we’ve covered some of the most common questions we receive about filters and the answers provided by our knowledgeable team.
- How long do Donaldson BOFA filters last?
There are multiple factors that influence the lifespan of Donaldson BOFA filters, for example, the process, frequency and duration of operation, and the materials being processed.
Rather than thinking about filter life in terms of time, a more accurate measure might be to think about units of product, because a 24/7 high-speed laser line will require a very different filter exchange schedule to, say, a dental laboratory.
Our engineers work closely with customers to configure filtration systems by taking all these factors into account. They look at the manufacturing process (such as lasering, electronics, and additive manufacturing), the material being worked, and the volume of airborne particulate likely to be generated. In the case of certain laser applications, this can include accounting for the “kerf”—the width of material removed by a cutting process, or the depth and area of the ablation for laser engraving or marking processes.
And remember, Donaldson BOFA systems incorporate filtration saturation sensors and many of our systems offer remote diagnostics, so monitoring filter performance and lifecycle can be undertaken in real-time. This enables exchanges to be scheduled as part of a planned maintenance routine to minimize downtime.
One point worth emphasizing is never to be tempted to replace Donaldson BOFA-approved filters with what might be considered alternatives. Donaldson BOFA filters have been purposely designed to work with the extraction system they reside in and take into account many factors, such as face velocity, pressure drop, residency time and structural integrity.
Installing non-genuine replacements could risk impaired filter efficiency or even filter rupture, potentially leading to downtime and a negative impact on product quality.
- Why does the process smell?
Although Donaldson BOFA systems offer filter capacity monitoring, we know that sometimes this information can get overlooked in busy workshop environments. If you notice a smell during the process, it’s a strong indication that fumes are not being effectively captured and that the carbon filter may be saturated. Check whether the extractor filter light is illuminated and then change the pre-filter. If it is still illuminated, change the combined filter. Donaldson BOFA systems featuring our Intelligent Operating System (iQ) provide independent monitoring of both the pre-filter and main filter, giving you real-time filter status and helping to ensure filters are replaced promptly, minimizing downtime and maintaining a clean, safe working environment.
- Where can I buy new filters?
New Donaldson BOFA filters should be purchased directly from the distributor who supplied your equipment, as they will have accurate records of your system’s configuration and can recommend the correct filter replacements. This ensures compatibility and optimal performance. It’s also important to plan ahead – holding a spare stock of filters helps support routine maintenance and keeps your operations running smoothly and efficiently.
- Why is my pre-filter blocking so quickly?
Some processes can generate large amounts of solid particulate and dust or can produce ’sticky’ particulate, which can sometimes apparently block filters ahead of their projected service lifetime. In these instances, Donaldson BOFA can provide application assistance to help improve service life and system availability.
To find out more about filters, visit the FAQs section on our website: www.donaldsonbofa.com/resources/faq/
