Dust Collectors and Baghouses A Collection of Papers, Videos, Case Histories and Other Instructional Material for the Bulk Material Handling Industry

Troubleshoot Common Dust Collector Problems
Detect Leaks in Your Baghouse System Through Dye Testing
Dust Collection Equipment: Pros, Cons and Alternatives
Dust Collectors for the Mining Industry: What Every Engineer Should Know
Wet Scrubbers For Dry Dust? Absolutely.
3 Reasons to Replace Your Dust Collector Filter Bags


Hopper

Troubleshoot Common Dust Collector Problems

Courtesy of Sly Inc.

Having problems with your dust collector? A faulty collector can lead to a shut-down with costly downtime and airborne dust can threaten employee health and safety. Collectors running inefficiently can increase utility costs when valves leak pricey compressed air and fans begin to work overtime to keep up with plugged bags. Below are four of the most common problems that can occur in a dry dust collection system – and how to fix them.

1. Problem: The filter is not cleaning properly

  • Check the Hoppers – Empty hoppers regularly to prevent dust re-entrance.
  • Search for Presence of Moisture – Inspect compressed air, oil leaks, and use dryers.
  • Check the Operation of the Timer – Observe LED lights and adjust according to manual.
  • Inspect Solenoid Valves – Ensure pulse valves operate correctly.

2. Problem: The dust collector is operating at a low volume

  • Clean Plugged Filter Bags – Clean offline for 15 minutes and retest.
  • Evaluate Exhaust Fan Performance – Check belts, fan rotation, impeller condition, and duct design.
  • Inspect Inlet Ducts – Correct ducts that are too small or plugged.

3. Problem: The dust collector is operating at high volume and picking up excessive product

  • Adjust Fan Speed – Reduce to design specifications.
  • Ensure Inlet Ducts are Secure and Properly Sized – Seal leaks and check static pressure.
  • Check Filter Bags – Replace missing or damaged bags.

4. Problem: The dust collector is experiencing excessive dust leakage

  • Double Check Filter Bags – Reinstall faulty bags.
  • Inspect Clean-Air-Plenum for Leaks – Use visual inspection or fluorescent powders.
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Detect Leaks in Your Baghouse System Through Dye Testing

By Elissa Tennant, Sly Inc.
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Dust Collection Equipment: Pros, Cons and Alternatives

By Bill Kurz, Sly Inc.
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Dust Collectors for the Mining Industry: What Every Engineer Should Know

By Bill Kurz, Sly Inc.
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Wet Scrubbers For Dry Dust? Absolutely.

By Ron Hatton, Sly Inc.
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3 Reasons to Replace Your Dust Collector Filter Bags