AirBench FN066784 Installation guide

© Copyright AirBench Ltd 2016 Page 1 of 19
AirBench™ FN
Operation and Maintenance
This Edition: 13 November 2019
AirBench Ltd, 6b Commerce Way, Colchester CO2 8HR
www.airbench.com
[phone]
AIRBENCH LTD

© Copyright AirBench Ltd 2016 Page 2 of 19
Cautions 3
Introduction 4
OVERVIEW 4
ABOUT AIRBENCH 4
ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT 4
Installation 5
GENERAL 5
ELECTRICAL 5
DUCTED UNITS 5
ASSEMBLY OF ACCESSORIES 6
Commissioning 7
GENERAL 7
IN HOUSE COMMISSIONING 7
FUME EXTRACTION UNITS 7
Operation 8
PRIOR TO USE 8
GENERAL USE 8
Maintenance 9
FILTER CARE 9
SPARES 12
OTHER ROUTINE MAINTENANCE 14
Accessories 15
FILTER PRESSURE GAUGES 15
HOURS RUN METER 15
WHEELS 15
COMPRESSED AIR INTERLINK 15
Thorough Examination and Testing 16
Technical 17
ARRANGEMENT 17
TECHNICAL DATA 17
Declaration of Conformity 18
AIRBENCH LTD

© Copyright AirBench Ltd 2016 Page 3 of 19
CAUTIONS
Use the AirBench only for the designed duty –consult the manufacturer on any change of
use.
Each unit is marked with its design application, which is also shown on the commissioning
certificate.
The filters are not self-cleaning.
They must be maintained / cleaned / replaced as described within.
Do not mix incompatible materials e.g. steel and aluminium.
It is the users’responsibility to comply with this legal requirement.
This unit is not ATEX rated.
It is your responsibility under ATEX regulations to ensure the AirBench is located in an
area rated suitable for the specification of the AirBench.
If this unit is configured for light sparks, ensure only mild steel dust is introduced. Do not
work galvanised or zinc coated steel on this unit.

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INTRODUCTION
Overview
Thank you for choosing AirBench as your fume or dust control system. Please read this document before
installation and use.
This document details maintenance activities which are essential to the safe use of your AirBench. We
recommend that the Responsible Person reads this manual fully prior to installation and operation of the
AirBench.
This document refers to the AirBench FN type. Models of this type are available with a range of filter
configurations. The filter configuration in use is detailed on the system Commissioning Certificate and is used
within this document to provide filter-specific maintenance information.
About AirBench
AirBench is a self-contained down draught extraction bench which utilises a fan and filter combination selected
for your specific application, to extract and filter dust/fumes and return filtered air to the work place.
Some models vary in filtration and filtered air delivery point.
It is used by running the fan at either fixed speed or variable speed (if speed controller fitted) to draw the
pollutant down and through the filters, allowing the process to proceed on the surface.
About this Document
This document provides general maintenance and operation instructions for the AirBench FN range. It should
be read in conjunction with the Commissioning Certificate supplied with the unit. If you have any concerns or
doubts about maintenance or operation of this unit, contact the manufacturer.

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INSTALLATION
General
Unpack the unit and check for damage, if not already completed.
The AirBench must be installed on a flat and level floor capable of carrying the weight of the unit. For nominal
unit weights, see Specifications section at rear of manual. When determining an installation location, be aware
that the air exhaust must discharge somewhere. Do not position the unit so all outlets are blocked.
These models are designed to be moved into place using a forklift or pallet truck, taking care not to damage
fittings on the base of the unit.
Please note installation may be required when using certain accessories, external fansets, or ducting (see
below).
Electrical
WIRING
AirBench is supplied as standard with an internal fan or fans. These are pre-wired to a switch or speed
controller and fitted with a lead and plug for your convenience. Standard electrical supply is 240V/1Ph/50Hz.
Certain models can be supplied with 110V/1Ph/50Hz internal fans if specified in advance; this is noted on the
front left of each unit where applicable.
BS7671 requires that the lead is appropriate for the working environment and you must satisfy yourself that the
pre fitted lead is satisfactory.
EARTH BONDING
A stud is provided for use where appropriate e.g. in cases where equipotential bonding is required or where an
external fan is fitted.
If in doubt consult a qualified electrician.
FUSES
Switched units: A fuse is provided on the switch front plate.
Speed controlled units: An additional fuse is provided within the speed control panel. To check this fuse,
remove the service panel; the speed control panel is mounted on the rear of the service panel.
Ducted Units
As standard, AirBenches are configured to discharge through the base of the unit without ductwork. Ducting
should not be retrofitted to the base of the unit without consultation with the manufacturer.
When configured for exhaust to atmosphere via ductwork a discharge spigot will be visible. These units are
designed to connect to ductwork of the same size as the discharge spigot (generally 200 or 250 mm diameter).

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Ducting should be installed by a professional and should not provide greater than 100 Pascals resistance.
Flexible ducting should be avoided as it may cause excessive back-pressure on the fan, and lead to reduced
airflow.
Any other configuration is non-standard and should be discussed with the manufacturer.
Assembly of Accessories
These items apply only when they have been ordered with the AirBench.
FRONT DEFLECTOR
If a deflector skirt is supplied loose with the unit, the unit must be raised slightly to allow the skirt to be fitted.
A pack of fixing bolts is supplied with the skirt; threaded inserts are fitted to the base of the bench to allow
attachment of the deflector. To fit, position the deflector skirt, and use the bolts to fix to the base of the bench.
Where a front deflector is supplied, ensure air is allowed to exhaust from sides or rear to avoid
motor overload.
ENCLOSURE
Enclosures are supplied fully assembled where possible. Where shipping does not permit assembly prior to
dispatch, enclosures should be assembled as follows using bolts supplied:
- Loosely fit left and right panels to left and right frame of bench.
- Loosely fit rear panel with assistance if required.
- Lay top panel (if supplied) on top of enclosure and bolt into position.
- Tighten all bolts.

© Copyright AirBench Ltd 2016 Page 7 of 19
COMMISSIONING
General
The initial commissioning and testing of your AirBench has been performed prior to delivery. However, as part
of in-house commissioning we recommend that you complete the following tasks and record the results as
appropriate in the system logbook.
In House Commissioning
The following tasks should be completed by a responsible person; for example, the Health and Safety Officer,
or Director, responsible for this process.
-Review the commissioning certificate for this unit, in particular any notes made by our engineer in relation to
use.
-Ensure all operators are trained to use this machine and are aware of the effective capture zone in which
they should aim to work.
-Ensure all operators are aware of the filter maintenance routine required for this machine.
Once complete, you should note this on the commissioning certificate and retain the certificate for future
reference.
As operating conditions vary, each installation will vary in maintenance needs and this is best established by
empirical means, regularly checking filter condition in the first weeks of operation to establish a procedure.
Reduced airflow is a key indication of filter condition. If the filter pressure gauge on the front of the unit is
showing in the red zone, this indicates low airflow and filters should be checked and cleaned or changed
promptly, according to the instructions contained within this manual.
We recommend keeping the commissioning certificate, Quick Start guide, and logbook with the machine at all
times for operator access.
If in doubt please contact the manufacturer quoting the machine serial number.
Fume Extraction Units
The effectiveness of carbon filtration improves as airspeed is lowered allowing fumes to spend longer passing
through the filters. A speed controller is supplied with carbon filtered units to allow airflow to be adjusted to the
optimum level.
We therefore recommend adjusting the speed controller provided to the lowest level at which extraction is still
effective and marking this operation point on the speed controller. Ongoing adjustment may be required as
filters become blocked with use.

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OPERATION
This page contains the same information as the Quick Start guide provided with your AirBench.
Prior to use
Check the system logbook to ensure no routine maintenance is required.
General use
To use AirBench, ensure it is plugged in to a mains socket and the socket is switched on. Turn on the switch on
the front of the bench.
If a speed controller is fitted, turn it to full power before switching on, then adjust it to an appropriate level. Our
recommended settings are shown below:
Fume: 50-75%
Light dusts, 50-100%
Heavy dusts, 75-100%
During commissioning, an optimum setting may have been determined and this should be noted in the system
logbook.
Check the filter pressure gauge on the front of the bench. If the needle on the gauge is showing within the RED
zone, check the filter condition –they may require cleaning or replacement.
Your AirBench has a zone above the surface in which capture is most effective, extending between 50cm and
1m in a straight line upwards from the ventilated area. This zone forms a box in which you should aim to do the
majority of your work. Working outside this zone may reduce the effectiveness of the extraction.
Work as normal, aiming to work within the extraction zone described above. On completion of work, switch the
AirBench off using the switch on the front. Record any maintenance you have undertaken, or any that is
required, in the logbook.
To avoid fan overload, do not block more than 95% of the work surface or the air
outlet.

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MAINTENANCE
Filter care
The filters are not self-cleaning and must be maintained / cleaned / replaced as described below. Proper filter
care is essential for the effective operation of your AirBench. If in doubt, contact the manufacturer for advice.
When changing filters, the seals on which the filters sit should be checked for damage and replaced if
necessary.
All filters should be regularly checked for wear, damage, or by-passing.
When completing filter maintenance activities these should be recorded in the accompanying log sheet.
Take precautions and wear appropriate PPE when handing filters.
They may contain hazardous dusts.
i
If using a vacuum cleaner to empty filters, excessive cleaning will reduce filter life.
Remove excess dust only.
FILTER ACCESS
Filters are accessed by turning the quarter turn latches on the front cover to loosen and opening the hinged
panel. The filters should then be lifted slightly to break adhesion to the filter seals, and can now be slid forward
to remove.
Filters can also be accessed for cleaning by lifting the top surface (taking care as these surfaces may have
sharp edges).
Surfaces can be heavy and have sharp edges.
Wear appropriate hand protection.

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PLEATED PANEL FILTERS
Pleated panel filters have wide spaced fabric pleats (often around 50mm between
pleats) in a metal case.
These filters can be removed and emptied regularly. They can also be emptied
using a vacuum cleaner by lifting the surface of the AirBench, taking care not to
damage the media. If removed, always replace the filter with the open face
upwards.
Replace the filter when it is stained on the clean (downwards) side, or
damaged.
MINIPLEAT FILTERS
Mini pleat filters have fine paper pleats (often around 5mm between pleats) in a
metal case.
This filter is not cleanable.
Replace the filter when it is stained on the clean (downwards) side or
damaged.
DISPOSABLE CARBON FILTERS
Disposable carbon filters have solid black activated carbon filter media in a metal
case; arranged as either a flat panel, or a ‘V’ section.
Carbon filters are not cleanable. They will become less effective over time and we
recommend changing to a fixed schedule (for example, annually) in low use
applications.
Replace the filter when increased odour is noticed in the exhaust from the
unit; or to a fixed schedule.

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LABYRINTH FILTERS
Labyrinth filters consist of a series of metal channels, in a metal frame.
These filters can be emptied regularly using a vacuum cleaner by lifting the
surface of the AirBench. They can also be removed and emptied.
In general labyrinth filters do not require replacement except when
damaged.
DISPOSABLE MEDIA PADS
Media pads are green and white fibreglass pads, held in a metal frame.
These filters are not cleanable. When replacing, the frame and clip which hold the
pad can be reused. Always replace with white side downwards.
Replace on a monthly basis, or more regularly if required.
Do not clean filters using compressed air.
This will damage media and spread dust.
Spares
See the specific list for your machine shown on the commissioning certificate.
When ordering, please contact the manufacturer quoting the serial number of this machine.

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Other routine maintenance
We recommend the following tasks be performed on a regular basis. Suggested intervals are shown and these
should be reviewed dependent on level of use. Actual completion of these operations and any variation to these
recommended maintenance intervals should be recorded in the system logbook.
If completion of routine maintenance tasks suggests additional issues, contact the manufacturer for advice.
FILTER SEALS
These sit beneath the filters and prevent dust passing into the body of the bench and the exhaust airstream. It
is important the seals are in good order. Check the condition of the filter seals every time filters are changed or
removed.
SURFACE
At least monthly, or as routine, check the surface condition. Clear any blocked holes.
FAN CHAMBER
At least every 6 months, check the fan chamber. Remove any debris and clean.
FAN
At least annually, check and tighten fan fixings, impeller fixings, and electrical connections.

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ACCESSORIES
Some accessories are only supplied if specified with purchase.
Filter Pressure Gauges
A filter pressure gauge is fitted as standard to the front of each AirBench. This indicates performance of the unit
as a whole, and filter condition. Certain models show a red zone on the filter gauge; when the gauge indicates
within this zone, filters may be blocked or require cleaning. Turn the AirBench off and inspect the filters.
Where no red zone is shown, a filter inspection pressure drop will be recorded on the Commissioning
Certificate. When pressure loss is greater than that shown on the Commissioning Certificate, follow the above
procedure.
A high pressure reading may also indicate a blocked surface. Inspect the surface for blockages and clean if
required. Do not operate AirBench continuously with more than 75% of the surface blocked.
Hours Run Meter
The meter is not resettable and operates at all times when the speed control or switch is powered.
Wheels
Standard industrial rubber wheeled swivel castors are used. The two front wheels are lockable. Lock by
pressing on the lever and trip by flicking (models and operation vary slightly). Do not attempt to move while
brakes are on.
Compressed Air Interlink
This option ensures the safety of operators by preventing the use of air tools without extraction being
operational; and reduces energy use by switching off the fan after 5 minutes of non-use.
4 off series 19 airline connectors are provided to the front or side of the unit and an internal timer fitted, pre-set
to an agreed value –usually 5 minutes. The control panel is supplied with an additional Red / Green push-
button.
System control will be as follows:
Switch main on/off switch to On –system is energized. Airline is switched to operational.
Press green button –fan starts and runs for 5 minutes.
Use airline or press green button again –timer is reset for a further 5 minutes.
Press red button –fan stops, airline stops.
The timer can be re-set to a different interval; contact the manufacturer for details.

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THOROUGH EXAMINATION AND TESTING
If AirBench is used as an LEV system it must be tested at regular (normally 12 month) intervals and certificated
under the COSHH regulations. This service is available from us, or our approved testers.
Thorough examination and test should include:
-Ensuring the prescribed maintenance routines are being completed and recorded within the system logbook.
-Condition check of fan, filters, electrics.
-Performance testing according to recommended face velocities.
-Visual check that operators are working within effective area.
-Visual check of effectiveness using, for example, smoke tubes.
Recommended face velocities are as follows:
Fume control: Minimum 0.5m/s
Light dust control: Minimum 1.0 m/s
Heavy dust control: 1.2 –1.5m/s
Completion of Thorough Examination and Testing should be recorded within the system logbook.

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TECHNICAL
Arrangement
Technical Data
Model
Width
Depth
Height
Weight
Fan Power
Max Current
(mm)
(mm)
(mm)
(kg)
(kw)
(a)
FN066784
674
675
840
70
0.13
1.5
FN126784
1274
675
840
95
0.37
2.8
FN186784
1874
675
840
140
0.59
4.9
FN129784
1274
975
840
125
0.59
4.9
FN189784
1874
975
840
160
1.2
9.8

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Data shown is for standard models. Check the Commissioning Certificate for details specific to your unit.
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Manufactured by:
AirBench Ltd.
6b Commerce Way
Colchester,
Essex.
CO2 8HR
Responsible Person:
Simon Cook
Description:
Ventilated work bench known as “AirBench”
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
BY
AIRBENCH LIMITED
RELEVANT DIRECTIVES
EMC Directive 2004/108/EC (when connected to standard mains sinusoidal supply).
Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC
Low voltage Directive 2006/95/EC
- EN-60204–1:2006 (Safety of machinery, electrical equipment of machines, general requirements).
- EN-60335-2-80 (Safety requirements for electric fans and regulators).
We; AIRBENCH Limited, declare that “AirBenches” when supplied as self contained equipment comply with the
directives detailed above and therefore comply with requirements of the Low Voltage Directive.

© Copyright AirBench Ltd 2016 Page 19 of 19
Simon Cook