Q: How do I dispose of used filters?
Q: How long does a filter last?
Q: In what types of applications can Weller® Zero-Smog filter systems be used?
Q: How can you tell if the filter system has effectively separated the gases you want to eliminate?
Q: What is the maximum recommended length of the hoses connected to a tip extraction filter system?
Q: How long can the tube system be for a Weller® Zero-Smog unit when configured as a central system?
Q: Are the Weller® Zero-Smog products ESD-safe?
Q: How loud are the Weller® Zero-Smog units?
Q: How do I choose the right type of nozzle to provide adequate fume extraction?
Q: How often should you clean the clip-on tubes and hoses connected to a tip extraction unit?
Q: How should a volume extraction nozzle be positioned on the workbench for optimum performance?
Q: What is the optimal airflow level for an extraction arm being used on a bench top?
Q: What length of hose is recommended between a volume extraction filter unit and the extraction arm?
Q: Tip extraction systems work best with what types of applications?
Q: How do I dispose of used filters?
A: The answer to this question depends on many variables, including the type of application the filters have been used for. It is best to consult with your HR team, your environmental engineer, or even your corporate legal and environmental contacts before disposing of possible hazardous waste materials. Your local community, city, county, or state regulations should also be considered before making this determination.
If a filter is classified as hazardous waste, local regulations for your community will dictate how filters should be disposed of. If the goods are classified as standard waste materials, it may be possible to treat these as standard landfill waste items.
In other cases, manufacturers’ MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheets), technical specification sheets, or other documents may provide guidance on how certain waste should be handled. If still unsure of the handling process, contact your local OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) or EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) representative.
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Q: How long does a filter last?
A: The useful life of Weller® Zero-Smog filters depends entirely on the application. Your Weller® representative can give you a rough estimate based on projections of soldering volume, type of flux used, and other factors specific to your operation.
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Q: In what types of applications can Weller® Zero-Smog filter systems be used?
A: Weller® Zero-Smog systems were developed to handle removal of pollutants like fumes, smoke, and gases, specifically in the electronics industry. However, they can also be used in workplaces where soldering, adhesives, plastics heating/melting, printing, and different kinds of washing and cleaning processes are performed.
Note: Weller® Zero-Smog fume extraction systems are not recommended for applications with high concentrations of dust or gases.
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Q: How can you tell if the filter system has effectively separated the gases you want to eliminate?
A: Weller® Fume Extraction systems are equipped with a broad spectrum gas filter as the standard filter media, which theoretically can eliminate gases corresponding to 25 % of the weight of the filter material. The Weller®Fume Extraction systems will extract gases with a molecule weight > 40 g / Mol and with a boiling point of > +/- 0 °C.
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Q: What is the maximum recommended length of the hoses connected to a tip extraction filter system?
A: Recommended maximum length is 2.5 meters for the standard hose diameter and configuration. Tip extractionsystems can be extended to 7.5 meters (2.5 meters for the standard connection hose and 5 meters for the Extension Hose) when using the appropriate Extension Hose (0053632699) and mating adapters.
Note: Hoses to all irons connected to the same filter unit should always be the same length and diameter to provide optimum performance.
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Q: How long can the tube system be for a Weller® Zero-Smog unit when configured as a central system?
A: The maximum recommended length for volume extraction products depends on a number of variables, including the attachment or connecting hose diameters for each system. See the table below for each system’s parameters. Please contact your Weller® representative for additional details on connection information forvolume extraction units.
- WFE 8S: Maximum Extension – 30 meters
- WFE 4S: Maximum Extension – 30 meters
- WFE 2S: Maximum Extension – 15 meters
- WFE2X: Not Recommended
- WFE2CS: Not Recommended
- WFE2ES: Not Recommended
- WFE20D: Maximum Extension (Tip Extraction w/50 mm) – 200 meters
* Note that the use of piped or extended systems must maintain a 100% seal. A faulty pipe system can negatively affect the life of the filter.
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Q: Are the Weller® Zero-Smog products ESD-safe?
A: All Weller® Zero-Smog fume extraction systems are classified as ESD safe when proper Grounding is confirmed and maintained (Three Prong Power Cord w/ properly Grounded power outlets). Each Weller® Zero-Smog system attachment must also be Grounded using connecting terminals or wiring provided with each accessory attachment.
* Note: When using non-Weller® components to extend the length of volume or tip extraction systems, ESD properties may be compromised.
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Q: How loud are the Weller® Zero-Smog units?
A: Weller® Zero-Smog units are some of the quietest on the market. The noise level is between 39-55 decibels inthe operator zone, depending on the unit and the number of workstations connected to it.
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Q: How do I choose the right type of nozzle to provide adequate fume extraction?
A: The selection of the nozzle style or type depends primarily on the application. The goal is to create a volume ofsuction that exceeds both the gas diffusion rate and the thermodynamics of the ambient air movement so thattheprocess air is contained by the nozzle. The general rule is to have > 0.5 m / sec directed towards the nozzle where the process takes place. In practice, it is the ergonomics of the available workspace and the size of the application that dictates the choice of the nozzle.
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Q: How often should you clean the clip-on tubes and hoses connected to a tip extraction unit?
A: For the clip-on tubes, twice a day to once a week, depending on the type and volume of work. The smoke tube will begin to make a whistling noise and the overall capacity of the system will decrease once the system openings are reduced.
Tip extraction flexible hoses should not be cleaned, but instead should be discarded after their useful life. Cleaning chemicals trapped in a hose could become combustible or could be pulled into the fume extraction unit causing damage to the filter or the unit.
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Q: How should a volume extraction nozzle be positioned on the workbench for optimum performance?
A: The position of the nozzle depends primarily on the style of nozzle being used and type of material being extracted. Cone (round) or sloped (angled) designs work better when positioned above the work. Funnel (half round / half flat) nozzles work best when positioned completely flat against the work bench and as close to the work as possible.
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Q: What is the optimal airflow level for an extraction arm being used on a bench top?
A: The airflow should be 50-70 m3/h. If set too high, the noise from the nozzle will be distracting. When using the nozzle correctly, an airflow rate of 50-70 m3/h is sufficient to capture escaping fumes and gases effectively.
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Q: What length of hose is recommended between a volume extraction filter unit and the extraction arm?
A: A maximum of three meters is recommended. Lengths of up to 10 meters are possible, but performance may be adversely affected.
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Q: Tip extraction systems work best with what types of applications?
A: A soldering iron with an integral smoke tube is the perfect solution for workstations with 1 - 2 soldering irons and repetitive tasks. This is one of the most cost effective ways of preventing hazardous smokes and gas from escaping into the environment.
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