The types of spray booth filter you should consider

Spray booth filters don’t come in one size fits all. There are many options which fall under two subtypes which include air extraction and air input. Air extraction filtration means filtering the air, removing the paint, varnish, glue, dust or other airborne particles before it leaves your booth. Air input filtration is the process of removing particulates before they enter your booth thus giving you a clean spray room.

Depending on your costs and budgets, the size of production and working speeds, this guide will help decide what are the best options for you. 

Regardless of whether you are investing in new equipment, contemplating an upgrade or just want to gain a greater understanding of how our different spray booths can benefit you, read on to learn all you need to know about different spray booth filters. 

There are a number of different spray booth filters which we have listed below, this should help you better understand how to keep your spray booth performing at its best.

Extraction booth filters

Extraction booth filters are used within all types of spray booths, the filter media should be matched to the spray booth environment and the type of coating being applied. 

Cardboard concertina filter

This type of spray booth filter is, now, the most commonly used. It should be fitted vertically within the booth and is constructed from two layers of different graded cardboard.  The cardboard is folded in such a way that, when fitted, gives a filtration hole facing forward with a ‘V’ shape folded behind and a second, offset, filtration hole on the back. The air enters the front face of the filter, spins around in the ‘V’ and exits via the second hole. This spinning allows the airborne particles to be in contact with the second layer of cardboard (which has a higher absorbency level than the front layer) onto which they will adhere. 

Multi-layer paper filter

This filter consists of progressively built layers of absorbent paper that hold the paint particles and allow the air to pass through. The weave on each layer gets progressively tighter as you progress from the front layer to the last layer. This allows the air to continue through layers whilst they slowly catch and fill with overspray. 

Fibreglass 

As with the multi-layer paper it is progressively built and is best fitted horizontally.  Where it differs is that the fibres aren’t absorbent so the paint holding capacity is much lower than both above and especially against Multi-layer paper. This type of filter is useful when there is moisture present or when unusual spaces need to be filled with some type of filter.

In addition to protecting us from dangerous chemicals, extract filters also protect the inner workings of the spray booth:  fans, ducting and dampers should be protected from the build-up of over-spray, reducing the chances of breakdowns.

Air input filters

Synthetic Fibre 

These are normally supplied in a roll or as pads cut to a size. They can be installed either vertically or horizontally, and are available in a range of filtration grades depending upon the type of booth and the airflow available.

Panel Filters

Two main types of panel filter are available, either pleated or glass fibre.  They can be installed either vertically or horizontally, and come in a range of sizes and depths to suit your requirements. Pleated panels provide superior filtration levels and are the preferred panel for input filtration however the glass fibre panels are an option when a spray booth may suffer from low airflow.

Maintenance

Selecting the right filter is only the first step, it is just as important to work out a regular filter maintenance programme. The hygiene and condition of your spray booth has a direct impact on the finished quality of your work.

The combination of different makes and models of spray booths, different types of filter and different paint types mean it’s nearly impossible to anticipate when the filter will need replacing. A manometer or magnehelic pressure gauge can be one way to identify if your exhaust filter is due for renewal.

Contact us

At Junair we are proud to provide a range of modern and innovative spray booths. We offer environmentally friendly automotive, aerospace and dry filter spray booths, all of which can meet a variety of client needs. 

If you have any questions please feel free to call using 01706 363555. Junair Spraybooths are more than happy to go over your options via email, so drop us a line at sales@junair.co.uk. Alternatively, if you would prefer to send us a message then please do so here!

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