Inert launches new filtration systems for Additive Manufacturing powder handling
February 14, 2018
The PF-1, said to be ideally suited for removing soot created as a by-product of laser welding or laser-based Additive Manufacturing (Courtesy Inert)
Inert, Amesbury, Massachusetts, USA, has launched a new line of Powder Filtration Systems designed for Additive Manufacturing and other industries that require the safe collection and disposal of particles and particulate which may be reactive, corrosive or otherwise require special handling considerations. The new systems, named PF-1, PF-2, and PF-3, can be integrated into Inert’s PowderShield enclosures or purchased separately for retrofitting into existing systems.
The systems are said to offer safety features including a quad HEPA filter cluster to collect reactive powders, water passivation of particulates, isolation valves and an electrically grounded design that prevents static electricity build-up or the potential ignition of particles. Other features include an easily accessible lockable cabinet, stainless steel piping, 60 CFM blower and Magnehelic gauge to display pressure and indicate when the filter needs replacement.
Inert reports that the new systems have been designed to be compact, enabling them to fit into both large and small facilities, and come in a variety of models for different user needs:
- The PF-1 is said to be ideally suited for removing soot created as a by-product of laser welding or laser-based Additive Manufacturing
- The PF-2 has a high max flow rate for larger industrial Additive Manufacturing processes
- The PF-3 contains a ceramic filter that can be used safely with higher temperatures
Inert’s PF Systems are the latest addition to the growing line of Additive Manufacturing solutions offered by the company, a manufacturer of hermetically sealed systems for air, moisture, and gas sensitive processes. Inert’s PowderShield is a glovebox enclosure for post-processing additively manufactured components safely, while collecting and reclaiming excess powders for reuse.
The company also produces argon management systems, which create and maintain non-reactive <1ppm O2 and H2O inert atmospheres for integration with AM systems, PowderShield enclosures and other closed-loop systems for handing, using, and printing with reactive powders.
