ES 
EN 
FR In virtually all loading, unloading and conveying processes involving powdered materials or dry bulk solids, dust emissions are generated. These emissions must be controlled to comply with current atmospheric emission regulations and to ensure safe and healthy working conditions for plant personnel.
To eliminate these emission sources, it is necessary to capture the airborne dust generated at different points throughout the process. For this purpose, dust collection systems are installed, specifically designed to extract, filter and efficiently control suspended particles, improving both workplace safety and overall plant performance.
Equipment in a Dust Collection System
A dust collection system mainly consists of the following components:
- Filter and/or cyclone.
- Extraction fan operating under negative pressure.
- Air ductwork.
- Dust collection hoods located at emission points.
Filter and/or Cyclone
The filter is the main component of a dust collection system. Its function is to separate solid particles from the air stream during the extraction process. Dust-laden air passes through a filtering medium, consisting of filter bags or cartridges, where the particles are retained while clean air passes through and is discharged into the atmosphere in compliance with environmental regulations.
In certain applications, the system may incorporate a cyclone as a pre-separation unit, reducing the particle load reaching the filter and improving the overall performance of the dust collection system.
Fan
The fan generates the negative pressure required within the extraction system to draw in dust-laden air and convey it to the filtration unit. Its sizing depends on the required airflow, the pressure losses throughout the installation and the specific characteristics of the process, ensuring efficient and continuous operation.
Ductwork
The ductwork conveys dust-laden air from the different emission points to the filter. Proper design of the duct diameter, routing and air velocity is essential to prevent material from settling inside the system while ensuring the required extraction airflow at every collection point.
Collection Hoods
Collection hoods are installed directly at the dust emission sources and constitute the first element of the extraction system. Their design, dimensions and positioning are critical to maximizing dust capture efficiency, minimizing the dispersion of airborne particles and ensuring effective transport of the dust to the filtration system.
Engineering and Plant Design
At SOTECMA, we develop complete engineering and design projects for dust collection, filtration and dust extraction systems. We carry out technical assessments of existing installations or develop the engineering as part of our turnkey projects, tailoring each solution to the specific requirements of the industrial process.
We analyze every installation individually to identify opportunities for improvement and optimize its performance, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations while maximizing dust collection efficiency.
Our engineering team provides expert technical advice, offering comprehensive solutions adapted to each installation and the type of material being handled. Typical improvements include:
- Optimization of piping layouts and extraction ductwork.
- Redesign or replacement of dust collection hoods.
- Conversion and modernization of existing filtration systems.
- Modification or replacement of valves, dampers and flow control devices.
- Integration of new auxiliary equipment and upgrades to control and automation systems.
Drawing on our extensive experience in bulk solids handling installations, we develop solutions that improve equipment performance, reduce dust emissions and optimize both maintenance requirements and the overall efficiency of every industrial plant.
Manufacture of Filters and Cyclones
At SOTECMA, we design and manufacture industrial bag filters, cartridge filters and cyclones for particle pre-separation and dust collection applications. Our equipment is engineered to deliver high filtration efficiency, minimize dust emissions and meet the specific requirements of each industrial process.
In addition to manufacturing our own equipment, we collaborate with internationally recognized companies specializing in filtration and dust collection systems. These strategic partnerships enable us to develop joint projects and integrate the most advanced technological solutions for specialized applications and processes with demanding technical requirements.
By combining our in-house engineering expertise with the technology of leading manufacturers, we provide customers with the most suitable solution for every installation, ensuring maximum reliability, energy efficiency and full compliance with current environmental regulations.
Plant Modernization and Upgrading
A significant part of SOTECMA's activity is focused on the modernization, upgrading and optimization of existing industrial plants. We work on both individual equipment and complete installations, adapting them to new production requirements, improving their performance and extending their service life.
Our projects include the refurbishment and upgrading of bag and cartridge filters, the replacement or modification of auxiliary equipment, the optimization of dust collection and conveying systems, as well as the modernization of plant control and automation systems.
We also carry out all the necessary modifications to ensure that existing installations comply with current environmental regulations governing particulate emissions, enabling our customers to meet legal requirements while improving the energy efficiency and operational performance of their processes.
Every project begins with a detailed technical assessment, allowing us to propose the most suitable solution to minimize downtime and maximize the performance and reliability of the existing installation.
Installation, Supervision and Commissioning
As part of our services, SOTECMA provides installation, installation supervision and commissioning of all supplied equipment and industrial plants. Our objective is to ensure that every project is brought into operation under the highest standards of safety, performance and reliability.
Our team of highly qualified engineers and technicians has extensive experience in the installation of industrial plants for bulk solids handling. Their expertise and professionalism ensure that every installation is completed in accordance with the highest quality and safety standards, while fully complying with each customer's technical specifications.
Once commissioning has been completed, we carry out periodic performance evaluations to verify that all equipment is operating correctly and that the expected production and efficiency levels are achieved. Whenever necessary, we propose and implement corrective measures to optimize both the production process and the plant control and automation systems.
This follow-up service maximizes plant performance, reduces maintenance costs and ensures reliable, efficient operation throughout the entire service life of the installation.
Permanent Stock of Spare Parts and Accessories
SOTECMA maintains a comprehensive permanent stock of spare parts, components and accessories to provide a fast and efficient response to any maintenance, repair or equipment replacement requirements.
The immediate availability of our most frequently requested spare parts enables us to minimize plant downtime, helping customers maintain production continuity and maximize equipment availability.
Our spare parts service includes original components for equipment manufactured by SOTECMA, together with specialized technical advice to identify the correct part and ensure a fast, safe and fully compatible replacement for every installation.
Thanks to our commitment to after-sales service, we provide fast, personalized support and reliable solutions that help extend equipment service life while maintaining the highest performance of industrial installations.
