Design and Construction of a Dust Extractor for Workshop Environment

Dust is a common by-product of industrial and workshop operations such as woodworking shops, metalworking areas and construction sites. Prolonged exposure to airborne dust poses serious health risks including respiratory problems, allergic reactions and long-term lung conditions. The aim of this study is the design and construction of a dust extractor for workshop environments. This work involved design calculations, technical drawings, selection of materials and equipment. Performance tests and evaluation were carried out to ascertain the effectiveness of the prototype and efficiency of the blower according to manufacturer’s specification. The blower was coupled to the 200W motor via its shaft and fastened on the tank cover. Performance tests were carried out on the suitability of the dust extractor for removal of particles at source in various workshops and factories. The performance evaluation involves measurement of flow rate against static pressure, motor power and blower efficiency at different flow rates. Total machine efficiency in terms of quantity of dust removed showed that for 60 s, iron filings, saw-dust, cement dust, plastic dust, rice chaff, rock dust and clayey- loamy dust particles, 45g, 70g, 85g, 53g, 72g, 47g and 65g respectively were removed by the dust extractor.