Festool Midi dust extractor - Would the blower work for fume extraction?

[Emild01]

Hi everyone!
I am new here and have already found a lot of useful information on the site. Reason for starting this topic is because I am looking for a mobile dust extraction system that can be used in a mobile van application for both vacuum cleaning and dust extraction of power tools and an industrial laser engraver.
The last subject is where I have a few questions regarding the Festool Midi dust extractor. As I understand the model comes with a blower function/outlet where my question is if this can be used for fume extraction?

The idea was to use the Midi and attach a blower hose to the unit to extract the fumes outside of the van. Can this be done with the festool midi or any other model perhaps?

Hope you guys can help. Since we are looking for a reasonable solution for some 10+ vans in the future  [smile]

Regards
Emil

 

[Gregor]

Depends on the fumes. In case they're combustible I would prefer a device that is guaranteed to not being able to ignite them.

 

[Emild01]

Depends on the fumes. In case they're combustible I would perfer a device that is guaranteed to not ignite them.

Agree. Fortunately the dust and fumes are not combustible. Also why I thought this solution might work

 

[RKA]

Without even knowing the details of your engraver, I would say no.  You should be seeking something that can move much more air than the 130 cfm you’ll get out of a midi.  That would put you well outside what any vacuum will do. 

 

[AlexThePalex]

I agree with RKA above, the Midi doesn't move enough air to make a difference.

 

[Emild01]

I see your point, but after researching several other welding or soldering type dust/fume extractors like these, I see they don’t seem to have much higher CFM ratings.

All things considered, the level of laser engraving is low and will be in an enclosed area. The extraction duct is very close to the marking bed which is also only 200mm x 200mm.

I understand the HEPA filter will not filter the odor and fumes but adding an extraction hose to the blower outlet which then leads outside? Perhaps add en extra inline extraction fan if necessary?

Also just to be clear. The blower outlet runs continuously with the dust extraction outlet, correct? Just wanted to be sure, that the blower function is not something you have to select to redirect air out of the outlet and that there are no other air out flow ducts on the unit. Because this would of course render the idea not possible.

And thanks for the quick responses. Great forum!
https://weldfabulous.com/lincoln-electric-miniflex-welding-fume-extractor-120v-k3972-3/
https://www.jbctools.com/fume-extractor-category-20.html