Air Quality Engineering AutoClean

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Overview

Function Description
Important Technical Specifications
Usage Features
Maintenance Features

The AutoClean In-Duct Self Cleaning Electronic Air Cleaner, manufactured by Air Quality Engineering, Inc., is a self-washing air purification system designed to remove a broad range of airborne contaminants in industrial settings. It utilizes a process called "Electrostatic Precipitation" to achieve high filtration efficiencies.

Function Description:

The AutoClean system draws particulate-laden air through a series of stages. First, the air passes through a prefilter. Next, it enters the cell ionizing section, where individual particles are imparted with an electrical charge. These charged particles are then drawn by electrostatic forces to oppositely charged collector plates in the cell collector section. Finally, cleaned air is discharged back into the room or ductwork. The system is designed for in-duct mounting, typically in a horizontal duct in an upright position with the washing manifold above the electronic cells. The face of the electronic cell should be at right angles to the airstream.

The unit is equipped with a built-in sequence timer and a washing assembly operated by a motor, allowing for an automatic washing cycle. This "Dynamic Wash system" is a key feature, aiming for maintenance-free air cleaning by periodically washing the electronic cells to maintain efficient performance. The wash cycle can also be manually activated.

Important Technical Specifications:

Contaminant Removal: Effectively removes coolant mist, dust, soot, pollen, tobacco, and cooking smoke.
Efficiency: Achieves efficiencies as high as 99 percent.
Airflow Rates: Starts at 1000 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute). Specific models (2000, 4000, 8000) offer varying capacities.
Electronic Cells: Available with One, Two, or Four electronic cells, operated by high voltage power supplies.
- AutoClean 2000: 2 x 41022 2' x 2' aluminum mesh filters.
- AutoClean 4000: 4 x 41022 2' x 2' aluminum mesh filters.
- AutoClean 8000: 8 x 41022 2' x 2' aluminum mesh filters.
Cabinet: Constructed from 16 gauge welded steel with a powder coat finish.
Instrumentation: Includes an indicator light that illuminates when the collector cells are properly energized.
Electrical Rating:
- 120V/240V, 60 Hz
- 220-240V, 50 Hz
Power Ratings (115V): 1.5 Amps
Power Ratings (230V): 0.75 Amps
Power Consumption (Air Cleaner ON CYCLE):
- AutoClean 2000: Max. 90W, Nom. 55W, Nom. 75VA
- AutoClean 4000: Max. 90W, Nom. 70W, Nom. 85VA
- AutoClean 8000: Max. 140W, Nom. 120W, Nom. 170VA
Power Consumption (WASH CYCLE):
- AutoClean 2000: Max. 145W, Nom. 105W, Nom. 170VA
- AutoClean 4000: Max. 145W, Nom. 105W, Nom. 170VA
- AutoClean 8000: Max. 145W, Nom. 105W, Nom. 170VA
Ambient Temperature Rating: Airflow through cells: 125°F [52°C] max., 40°F [5°C] min.
Water Pressure (Min. during Wash): 25 psi (172.4 kPa).
Hot Water Tank Size (Min.):
- AutoClean 2000: 40 Gallon (151.4 Liter)
- AutoClean 4000: 50 Gallon (189.3 Liter)
- AutoClean 8000: 100 Gallon (378.5 Liter)
Hot Water per Wash:
- AutoClean 2000: 35 Gallon (132.5 Liter)
- AutoClean 4000: 60 Gallon (227.1 Liter)
- AutoClean 8000: 112 Gallon (423.9 Liter)
Recommended Wash Water Temperature: 125 to 160 deg F (52 to 71 deg C).
Maximum Water Flow Rate @ 30 psi:
- AutoClean 2000: 4 Gal/min (15.1 Liter/min)
- AutoClean 4000: 7 Gal/min (26.5 Liter/min)
- AutoClean 8000: 14 Gal/min (53.0 Liter/min)
Detergent: Smokemaster liquid detergent available in 1 gal. [3.8 L] bottles and 55 gal. [208.0 L] drums. AQE's welding detergent (part number 45026) and degreaser (part number 45031) are also available for specific contaminants.
Optional Filters: Primary filter options (24”h x 24"w x 10.75" deep or 24”h x 12"w x 10.75" deep), custom carbon modules, and custom blower modules are available.
Optional Enclosure: Optional outdoor weather enclosure and mounting skid available.

Usage Features:

In-Duct Installation: Designed for integration into existing air handling systems. Gradual transitions in ductwork are recommended to ensure uniform airflow across the electronic cell. Turning vanes should be used in duct elbows to provide even air distribution.
Automatic Washing Cycle: The "Dynamic Wash system" provides a maintenance-free solution by automatically washing the electronic cells. The sequence timer controls system shutdown, wash, rinse, and dry cycles.
Detergent System: The unit connects to a detergent bottle, with a pump and manifold motor distributing detergent during the wash cycle. Multiple air cleaners can share a central detergent system, with maximum horizontal distance from air cleaner to bottle being 20 ft. and maximum vertical distance 7 ft.
Safety Features: A top door interlock switch ensures the power supply is de-energized when the access door is opened.
Indicator Light: Provides a visual cue that the collector cells are properly energized.
Customer Support: Air Quality Engineering provides technical support via mail, phone, fax, and email for inquiries, troubleshooting, and parts.

Maintenance Features:

Self-Washing Capability: The primary maintenance feature is the automatic washing cycle, which cleans the electronic cells periodically to maintain efficiency. The duration of the detergent pump operation during the wash cycle can be manually adjusted via a potentiometer on the sequence controller.
Manual Wash Activation: The wash cycle can be manually activated by pressing a button.
Detergent Replenishment: Users need to replenish the detergent supply in the bottle before it is completely empty to prevent hose clogging.
Spray Shield Cleaning: Spray shields, which help stop lint and large particles, should be checked periodically for overloading and removed for cleaning (e.g., with a garden hose, vacuum, or by knocking off dirt).
Manual Cell Cleaning: After extended periods (1-3 years), electronic cells may require a more thorough manual washing outside the unit. Specific cleaning solutions are recommended based on the type of contaminant (e.g., Smokemaster liquid detergent for general dust/smoke, AQE's welding detergent for metal oxides, AQE's degreaser for greases).
Ionizing Wire Replacement: If ionizing wires are broken, they can be replaced using nose pliers and a hooked end secured in the mounting bracket hole.
Troubleshooting Guide: The manual provides detailed troubleshooting steps for common issues such as indicator light flickering/zapping noises, indicator light not on, water not flowing, detergent not flowing, mechanical wash system not working, and fan issues. It emphasizes that dangerous line voltage circuits are exposed during servicing, requiring qualified personnel and proper safety precautions.
Professional Repair Services: Air Quality Engineering offers professional cell cleaning services and repair estimates for damaged cells, recommending against untrained personnel attempting complex repairs.

The AutoClean system is designed for robust performance in industrial environments, offering a sophisticated solution for maintaining clean air with a focus on automated maintenance.