The FILTRABOX Micro Fume Extractor is a robust and versatile air purification system designed for industrial applications, particularly those involving laser engraving and other processes that generate fumes and dust. Manufactured by PAT Technology Systems Inc., this device is engineered to provide efficient and reliable air filtration, ensuring a safer working environment.
Function Description
The primary function of the FILTRABOX Micro is to extract and filter airborne contaminants, including dust, fumes, and gases, generated during various industrial processes. It operates as a fume extractor, drawing in contaminated air and passing it through a multi-stage filtration system before releasing clean air. This process is crucial for protecting operators from harmful particles and maintaining air quality in workshops and production facilities. The device is equipped with an auto-compensation flow control feature, which automatically adjusts the power to the blowers to maintain a consistent "Airflow %" set-point, even as filters become obstructed by dust. This ensures continuous optimal performance without manual intervention, unless the "Airflow %" setting needs to be changed or the filters are severely reduced, in which case a "REDUCE FLOW RECOMM." message will be displayed.
Important Technical Specifications
The FILTRABOX Micro boasts a set of specifications that highlight its performance and design:
- Voltage: 120V
- Frequency (Hz): 50 / 60
- Wattage (KW): 0.7
- Blower Type: 1x Brushless
- Length (mm/inches): 432 / 17
- Width (mm/inches): 254 / 10
- Height (mm/inches): 660 / 26
- Weight (Kg/Lbs): 36.3 / 80
- CFM: 128
- Pressure: InH2O: 80 (High Pressure)
- Construction: Steel
- Design: Independent Filters
- Operating Decibels: 50
- Display/Control: LCD/Push Button
- Flow Control: Auto-Compensation
- Warranty: 1 year
The filtration system is a key component, featuring three types of filters:
- Pre-Filter (FIL-P-MC-426): A rigid aluminum pre-filter with a MERV 9 glass fiber media, offering a filtration area of 3m². This filter is designed to collect fine dust particles.
- HEPA Filter (FIL-P-MC-416): A rigid aluminum HEPA filter with an efficiency of 99.999% @ 0.3 microns. It uses glass fiber media and has a filtration area of 3m², effectively capturing ultra-fine dust.
- Gas Filter (FIL-G-MC-406): An OXY-CARBON filter weighing 20 lbs, designed for dual action: oxidation/adsorption, to adsorb and destroy odor-causing gases.
Usage Features
The FILTRABOX Micro is designed for user-friendly operation with several key features:
- User Interface: The device features an LCD/Push Button display for control and monitoring. The user interface includes a "POWER/OK BUTTON" to toggle fan power, a "MENU/BACK BUTTON" to open the menu and return to the main screen, "OPERATING MODE" display, "FLOW% SETPOINT" display, "FAN STATUS" display, and "ARROW BUTTONS" for changing flow percentage and navigation.
- Quick Start Instructions: The manual provides clear instructions for calibration and airflow setting. Calibration is crucial for specific laser engravers to ensure proper function and optimal performance. The process involves connecting the device to a laser engraver, arranging the hose, and initiating an automatic calibration procedure. The device displays various screens during calibration, and once finished, the main screen displays the flow setpoint, which can be adjusted using the up/down keys.
- Airflow Setting: The "AIRFLOW % SETTING" is critical for adequate fume evacuation. The manual provides "USEFUL TIPS" for determining the appropriate 4-6 second rule or 6-8 second rule for airflow, depending on the laser size and desired evacuation. The setting process involves booting up the device, turning on the blower, and setting the "Airflow %" to the desired starting point. It also includes steps for adjusting the airflow during smoke/odor-generating substrates and checking for adequate evacuation flow.
- Installation: The device is shipped in custom packaging for maximum protection. The OXY-Carbon Gas Filter is heavy (approximately 20lbs), requiring careful handling during unpacking. Installation involves connecting the threaded inlet to the lid module using screws, inserting the flex hose into the inlet, securing it with a hose clamp, and connecting the power cord to the Main Power Switch located at the back of the Filtrabox Micro and turning it on with the User Interface.
- Menus: The device's menus are navigated using the UP and DOWN arrow keys, with the OK button used to select settings.
- New Application Calibration: This feature allows for calibration when changing lasers, hose length, hose diameter, or anything that would change the airflow restrictions, ensuring optimal performance for new setups.
Maintenance Features
Maintaining the FILTRABOX Micro is essential for its longevity and effective operation, with a strong emphasis on filter replacement and checks:
- Filter Replacement Instructions: The Filtrabox Micro uses three types of filters (Pre-Filter, HEPA Filter, and Gas Filter). The manual provides detailed instructions for replacing each filter type.
- "CAPACITY WARNING": This warning appears on the screen when either Dust filters (Pre-Filter and/or the HEPA) filter need replacement. The "Airflow %" value will NOT increase actual airflow, and the "CAPACITY WARNING" indicates that the "Airflow %" set-point can no longer be achieved despite the power applied to the blower.
- Ordering Replacement Filters: Replacement filters can be purchased from www.filtrabox.com or by calling 514.840.9696 ext. 102.
- "FILTER CHECK" FEATURE: This feature helps identify when filters need replacement.
- Procedure: To check filters, the user needs to press the OK button to initiate the "CHECK FILTER" process. The machine will then display a prompt to remove the Pre-Filter. The user must loosen the Strap Clamps on the Lid, lift the Lid, remove the topmost Filter Alignment Ring, and then remove the Pre-Filter. The process is repeated for the HEPA Filter. The prompts on the screen will guide the user through the process. If the Filtrabox is in good condition, a "Filter Life %" will be displayed. If the filter check is complete, the Pre-Filter and the topmost Filter Alignment Ring must be replaced, ensuring the Strap Clamps are tightened.
- Important Note: Filter Alignment Rings must be centered correctly into each filter. They should fit inside both filters when installed correctly.
- Safety: Users are warned about potential electrical discharge when turning off and unplugging the Filtrabox before performing any activities that require disassembly of the unit.
- Replacing the Dust Pre-Filter (FIL-P-MC-426):
- Procedure: Loosen Strap Clamps on the Lid, lift the Lid, remove the topmost Filter Alignment Ring, and remove the old Pre-Filter. Ensure the new one is centered correctly onto the HEPA Filter and oriented the right way up. Replace the new Pre-Filter, ensuring the Filter Alignment Ring is on top. Replace the Lid and tighten Strap Clamps.
- Replacing the Dust HEPA Filter (FIL-P-MC-416):
- Procedure: Similar to the Pre-Filter replacement, this involves loosening Strap Clamps, lifting the Lid, removing the topmost Filter Alignment Ring, and removing the old Pre-Filter. Then, remove the old HEPA Filter. Replace with the new HEPA Filter, ensuring it is centered correctly and oriented the right way up. Replace the Pre-Filter and the topmost Filter Alignment Ring. Replace the Lid and tighten Strap Clamps.
- Replacing the OXY-CARBON Gas Filter (FIL-G-MC-406):
- Attention: The OXY-Carbon Gas Filter is HEAVY (approximately 20lbs), requiring appropriate care and precaution when lifting.
- Procedure: Loosen Strap Clamps on the Lid, lift the Lid, remove the three Filter Alignment Rings, the Pre-Filter, and the HEPA Filter. Remove and replace the old Gas Filter, ensuring the new one is centered correctly onto the Base Module. Replace the HEPA Filter, Pre-Filter, and the three Filter Alignment Rings. Replace the Lid and tighten Strap Clamps.
- Service Menu: This menu is exclusively for use by Filtrabox Technicians or with their guidance.
The FILTRABOX Micro is a comprehensive solution for air purification in industrial settings, combining robust construction, advanced filtration technology, and user-friendly features with clear maintenance guidelines to ensure optimal performance and safety.