Even well-built CNC enclosures leak. Doors open, tool changers cycle, chips convey out, and pressure fluctuates with extraction demand. Fine dust follows the air, so any path for make-up air becomes a leak path. Treat leakage as a system issue: pressure, flow, openings, and housekeeping.

Common leak paths and how to fix them

Door gaps and worn seals: replace gaskets, add adjustable latches, and check alignment. Cable and pipe penetrations: fit grommets or brush seals and avoid oversized holes. Chip conveyors and skimmers: add local hoods over outlets and keep gaps as small as practicable. Operator windows and ports: ensure they self-close and latch without slamming (a sign of excessive negative pressure).

Pressure and airflow under load

Extraction that works at idle can collapse under load as filters block. Fit a simple manometer to watch enclosure pressure and record typical values during cutting. Increase make-up air through controlled inlets rather than unplanned cracks, and keep the extract fan’s performance verified under load, not by free-air figures.

Directed capture around openings

Place a small capture hood or the intake of an air scrubber near routine openings to catch fugitive plumes as doors open. A unit such as a MAXVAC Dustblocker can provide background capture in front of the machine, reducing the visible haze when access is needed. Direct the outlet away from walkways to avoid re-entrainment.

Housekeeping that prevents re-release

Settled dust leaks back into the airstream whenever people move or air pulses. Vacuum inside ledges, rails, and cable trays with an industrial unit and avoid sweeping. Short, frequent cleans beat occasional deep cleans.

Quick verification

• Smoke test door edges and penetrations; smoke should flow inwards.
• Trend PM readings during door operations; aim for quick recovery.
• Log filter changes and pressure; rising baseline suggests fouling or leaks.

Leaking enclosures are rarely solved by seals alone. Control the pressure, guide the air, and remove what escapes before it spreads.