Fiberglass Dust Collection

Fiberglass is used in many applications. However, fiberglass dust collection poses challenges. Fiberglass dust creates a health risk, since it causes irritation to the eyes, skin, and lungs. Depending on the process, the dust may be large and abrasive or very fine, and resins may make it combustible.

Fiberglass is manufactured from silica and other minerals, then extruded through very fine holes to make fibers. During the manufacturing of end products, these fibers are usually reinforced with resins.

CMAXX on a fiberglass dust collection application

Applications for fiberglass include:

  • Structural fiberglass-reinforced plastic
  • Storage tanks and pipes
  • Boats
  • Automotive parts
  • Insulation
  • Surfboards and kayaks
  • Wind turbine blades
  • Pools and hot tubs

Fiberglass dust collection requires a company experienced in this challenging application. Handling fiberglass may produce an abrasive dust with fibers that stick together. Grinding or cutting fiberglass reinforced plastic will produce a fine dust of fiberglass and resin.

Because of the plastic or resin component, this dust is combustible. A fiberglass dust collection system may need fire and explosion protection to meet OSHA and NFPA standards. Also, because fiberglass dust inhalation is a health risk, regulations exposure.

Possible Equipment

Many companies that manufacture fiberglass products have areas for sawing, cutting, and grinding the material. The fiberglass dust collection system may require hoods or downdraft tables at each of these work areas. Fugitive fiberglass dust can come in contact with workers’ skin or be inhaled, causing irritation.

Imperial Systems is a recognized leader in the field of fiberglass dust collection. The CMAXX excels on applications that involve grinding and cutting fiberglass products. Deltamaxx nanofiber cartridge filters withstand tough fiberglass dust with high efficiency. Please see our video interview with one of our satisfied customers who uses a CMAXX on structural fiberglass reinforced plastics.