Materials and types of ducts available

• PVC ducts, elbows and reductions: The cheapest and easiest to obtain and install, but definitely the most dangerous. This material should not be used in dust extraction under any circumstances, as it is simply not designed for that purpose. When transporting materials in the air stream, PVC generates a lot of friction, which in turn creates a high static electrical charge, resulting in sparks. In this way we are not only running the risk of causing a fire, but also a spark that could damage the electronic control panels of our machinery. For all those who have already invested in machinery, it goes without saying how expensive this can be.
• Sheet spiroducts: The first thing worth noting is that for these ducts to obtain their shape, they must be manufactured with thin-gauge sheets, which makes them more sensitive to wear generated by friction when transporting abrasive materials. Secondly, their joints are engargoladas, which means that since they are not welded in their entirety, they could have weak assemblies. It is important to highlight these two points, since when it comes to extraction ducts, it must be remembered that they work at negative pressure and this effort applied to fragile ducts can result, in the worst case scenario, in a collapse of the facilities.
• Welded sheet ducts: Because they are welded, these ducts are made of galvanized sheet (generally) of thicker gauges (20 or 18), joined by flanges and screws. In appearance they may appear to be less aesthetic, but that loses importance when considering that their resistance is much higher, as is their useful life. They are manufactured in one-length sections according to a general plan and segmented into pieces that help their installation and transportation.
• Ducts with “fast clamp” system: Made of sheet metal, these ducts come in modular units and are joined with clamps that use the “fast clamp” methodology. Their use is becoming more and more popular since, in addition to presenting a solid construction, they facilitate and save their transfer and possible future modifications. 

When it comes to an extraction system, there are many options and they represent a significant expense. For this reason, we recommend that when you decide to acquire one, you do so with the support of an expert who takes care of all its aspects and who, in addition, accompanies you once the installation is done to give the corresponding periodic maintenance. Otherwise, regardless of the size of the investment, the return will not be optimal.