Furniture Journal reviews the AL-KO Dust Extractor

Read what respected trade publication Furniture Journal has to say about the dust extraction specialist, AL-KO. German dust extraction specialist, AL-KO Therm GMBH, presented its latest range of accessories designed exclusively for its mobile dust extraction series, the Power Unit, at Ligna 2019. Here, we take a closer look at what you can expect to find under the lid of the AL-KO dust extractor Power Unit range.

The Jet Filter

AL-KO’s high-performance JET filter offers optimum filter cleaning whilst using the least amount of compressed air possible. Depending on the size of the unit, the cleaning process can take place while in operation or, on larger models, after the extractor has shut down.

Every model in the range is delivered ready for connection. Filters made of antistatic polyester needle felt material (BGIA-tested for dust class M) also come as standard and feature a snap ring lock for easy handling.

Contactless Sensors

Launched at Ligna, the new contactless AL-KO dust extractor ALC 21 sensor can be retrofitted onto any Power Unit model. Integrated into a dust-protected sheet steel housing, it has been designed to reliably monitors the level of the chip container via ultrasound and, once it reaches its maximum level, the machine alerts the operator and turns off automatically after 10 minutes if not emptied.

A fire extinguishing system come as standard on larger models (250 and above). The triggering of the extinguishing process is controlled automatically by a temperature sensor via the device controller. Manual operation is also possible.

Certified Units

The complete AL-KO dust extractor Power Unit range conforms to the most recent regulations and is certified with the BG–GS test seal, in accordance with GS-HO-07 (with endorsement for residual dust concentration test seal H3). This means it can be directly installed without additional fire or explosion protection measures. Each unit also includes energy-efficient motors tested to IE2 standard and guarantees 100% air recirculation without loss of temperature (residual dust < 0.1 mg/m3). It also features sound-insulated air recirculation for optimum noise emission values.

PLC controls are available, offering manual and automated start and can be modified to include machine recognition, slide valve control and frequency controlled operation.

New Dust Compartment

AL-KO’s new Dust Compartment, first seen at Ligna 2019, has been designed to work in tandem with the contactless filling sensor. Before the container is changed, the Dust Compartment can be pushed into the housing to collect the dust. When removed, the remaining dust automatically falls into the container and a clever locking mechanism ensures safe and easy emptying.