The FILTRABOX EXPAND 3 is a powerful laser fume extractor designed for demanding industrial and commercial applications with high airflow requirements. It is particularly suited for users working with challenging substrates and high-volume production. The device's modular design allows for easy replacement of individual components, requiring only a few screws and a single cable connection per module.
Function Description:
The EXPAND 3 is equipped with three Blower Modules, making it the most powerful laser fume extractor in the Filtrabox lineup. These modules efficiently extract dust and fumes, circulate air through a multi-stage filtration system, and then output clean air back into the room. The system incorporates an auto-compensation flow control feature, which automatically adjusts blower power to maintain a set airflow percentage as filters become blocked, ensuring consistent performance and maximizing filter life. The device offers three operating modes: Manual On/Off, Link On/Off, and Link On/Idle, providing flexibility in how the extractor integrates with a laser system. The Link modes utilize a DB9 connection for remote control by the laser, allowing for automated operation based on the laser's activity.
Important Technical Specifications (Expand 3):
- Voltage: 240V
- Frequency: 50/60 Hz
- Wattage: 5.5 kW
- Blower Type: 3x Brushless
- Length (mm/inches): 782 / 30.76
- Width (mm/inches): 675 / 26.57
- Height (mm/inches): 1193 / 46.97
- Weight (Kg/Lbs): 204 / 450
- CFM: 210+210+210 (total 630 CFM)
- Pressure: 42 " H2O (High Pressure)
- Construction: Steel/Molded Hood
- Design: Modular
- Operating Decibels: 63 dB
- Display/Control: LCD/Push Button
- Flow Control: Auto-Compensation
- Warranty: 1 year
Filtration System:
The EXPAND 3 utilizes a three-stage filtration system:
- Pre-Filters: 1x Cylindrical Pre-Filter (F9 Glass Fiber, 15 m²) designed to remove larger particles.
- HEPA Filter: 1x HEPA Filter (99.9% @ 0.3 micron, Glass Fiber, 12m²) for removing finer particles.
- Gas Filter: 1x OXY-CARBON Filter (Dual Action: Oxidation/Adsorption, 83 lbs) for odor removal.
Usage Features:
- Authentication: The device requires an authentication code to unlock its functions, ensuring the product is new and authentic. This process involves obtaining a code from the manufacturer and entering it via the user interface.
- Calibration: Essential for proper functioning, the device must be calibrated to the specific laser setup. This process accounts for air resistance caused by flex hoses and laser restrictions, optimizing performance and extending filter life. Calibration takes 3-6 minutes and requires the lid to be on, straps fastened, and all flex hoses connected to both the Filtrabox and the laser.
- Airflow Setting: Users can set the "Airflow %" to the lowest possible value that effectively evacuates fumes, minimizing costs by maximizing filter lifespan. The auto-compensation feature maintains this set-point automatically.
- Operating Modes:
- Manual Mode (On/Off): Allows manual control of blower on/off state.
- Link On/Off: Blowers engage at the set airflow percentage when requested by the laser via a DB9 connection. Blowers deactivate when no airflow is required.
- Link On/Idle: Similar to Link On/Off, but when the laser does not require operating airflow, the extractor continues to run at a very low setting to contain off-gassing fumes from printed materials and contaminants within the filters.
- EZ-LINK Controller Set-up and Pin-Out: Provides details on connecting the Filtrabox to a laser controller for remote operation. Pins 4 & 5 are normally open outputs from the laser controller to start the exhaust system, while Pins 8 & 9 are normally open inputs to the laser controller, closing the circuit when a "Check Filter" status appears on the extractor. The electrical requirements specify that no more than 200 mA should pass through the output wires (Pins 4 & 5) and the laser's filter control unit should use approximately 30 mA to detect when the input wires (Pins 8 & 9) are connected.
Maintenance Features:
- Filter Replacement Instructions: The manual provides clear guidance on when and how to replace each of the three filter types.
- "Check Filter" Warning: A flashing "Check Filter" warning on the user interface indicates insufficient airflow due to a filter blockage, typically requiring replacement of the Pre-Filter and/or HEPA Filter.
- Smoke from Laser + "Check Filter" Warning: Suggests a filter blockage. Users are advised to check hose connections, lid sealing, and door closure before replacing filters. If all filters have been replaced and the warning persists, Carbon Filters may need replacement.
- Smoke from Fume Extractor Exhaust: Indicates the HEPA filter needs replacement.
- Odor from Fume Extractor Exhaust: Signals that the Carbon Filter needs replacement.
- "Filter Check" Feature: This diagnostic feature identifies which dust filter (Pre-Filter or HEPA) needs replacement. It assesses the status of all dust filters and prompts the user to remove the Pre-Filter, then advises on replacing either the HEPA or Pre-Filter based on their condition. It may also suggest upgrading to a more powerful model if the airflow setting is too high.
- Replacing the Cylindrical Pre-Filter: Detailed steps are provided, including opening the access door, unlocking the retaining bar, sliding off the spent filter, installing a new one (blue side facing the spigot), and securing it.
- Replacing the HEPA Filter: Involves loosening strap clamps, removing the lid, lifting off carbon filters, removing the spent HEPA filter, installing a new HEPA filter, reinstalling carbon filters, and then reassembling and securing the lid.
- Replacing the Carbon Filter Set: Similar to HEPA filter replacement, this involves removing the lid, lifting off spent carbon filters, installing new ones, and reassembling the lid.
- Blower Module Replacements: The modular design allows for easy replacement of blower modules. This process involves disconnecting power, removing the lid and filters, accessing the blower connector panel, removing screws, sliding out the old module, installing a new one, reconnecting, and reassembling the unit. After replacement, the system requires re-calibration by selecting the number of blowers in the settings menu.
- User Interface Module Replacement: Instructions are provided for replacing the LCD display and control button module, which involves removing screws, carefully pulling out the module (connected by a ribbon cable), disconnecting the cable, connecting a new module, and re-installing.
- Service Menu: This menu is restricted for use by Filtrabox Technicians or with their guidance.
- Support: Contact information (website and phone number) is provided for any questions related to products and accessories.
- Warranty: A 12-month warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for goods manufactured by PAT, with exceptions for spare parts (1 month) and used equipment (1 month). The warranty outlines procedures for remedying defects, including repair or refund, and specifies conditions under which PAT is not liable (e.g., improper installation, use of unapproved consumables). It also addresses warranties for third-party goods and services.
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