As CNC capacity grows, dust control that was “good enough” can fail. Modular design lets you scale capture without re‑engineering every move, keeping exposure, cleanliness and downtime under control.

Start with loads and risk

List processes, materials and run hours to estimate dust types and volumes. Where respirable or carcinogenic dusts may be present, specify H14 filtration in the relevant stages. Plan for airflow under load with allowance for filter loading, not free‑air figures.

Build with modular blocks

Use standard LEV drops and quick‑connect ducting so cells can be added or relocated. Deploy mobile air scrubbers and negative air units to reinforce hotspots. Provide spare electrical capacity and mounting points so units can be staged as production changes.

Zoning and control

Create zones per line or hall with isolation dampers, so maintenance or ramp‑up on one area does not compromise the rest. Stage fans and scrubbers to match demand and reduce energy use. Add fixed PM sensors per zone to trigger actions and log performance.

Service, spares and resilience

Design for filter access, service clearances and safe change. Keep critical spares on site and apply N+1 for key fans in high‑risk areas. Review data quarterly and move portable units to where the readings demand. Many facilities standardise on modular MAXVAC systems so components and filters remain common across the site.

Practical takeaways

• Specify filtration by risk and quote airflow under load with margin.
• Use quick‑connect LEV and mobile scrubbers to add capacity fast.
• Zone extraction with isolation and staged control for energy and uptime.
• Instrument each zone with PM sensors linked to maintenance actions.
• Design for safe service and keep N+1 where downtime is critical.