AirBench Vertex VP Installation guide

© Copyright AirBench Ltd 2019 Page 1 of 18
Vertex VP
Operation and Maintenance
This Edition: 3rd December 2019
AirBench Ltd, 6b Commerce Way, Colchester CO2 8HR
www.airbench.com
[phone]
AIRBENCH LTD

© Copyright AirBench Ltd 2019 Page 2 of 18
Cautions 3
Introduction 5
OVERVIEW 5
ABOUT VERTEX 5
ABOUT THIS DOCUMENT 5
Installation 6
GENERAL 6
MODULAR SYSTEM 6
ELECTRICAL 6
COMPRESSED AIR 7
DUCTED UNITS 7
ASSEMBLY OF ACCESSORIES 7
Commissioning 8
GENERAL 8
IN HOUSE COMMISSIONING 8
Operation 9
PRIOR TO USE 9
GENERAL USE 9
Maintenance 11
FILTER CARE 11
SPARES 12
OTHER ROUTINE MAINTENANCE 13
Accessories 14
FILTER PRESSURE GAUGES 14
HOURS RUN METER 14
WHEELS 14
COMPRESSED AIR INTERLINK 14
Thorough Examination and Testing 15
Technical 16
ARRANGEMENT 16
TECHNICAL DATA 17
Declaration of Conformity 18
AIRBENCH LTD

© Copyright AirBench Ltd 2019 Page 3 of 18
CAUTIONS
These AirBenches include an air receiver tank and as such is subject to the Pressure
Systems Safety Regulations 2000 in the UK. This places statutory duties on the owner
of the system.
You should ensure you are aware of these duties.
Air receiver tanks may corrode if moisture is allowed to build up internally. Tank
drainage is accessed via the removable front panel - ensure the tank is regularly
checked for moisture and drained if required. Air supply should always be clean and
moisture-free.
Use the VertEx 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.

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This unit is not ATEX rated.
It is your responsibility under ATEX regulations to ensure the VertEx is located in an
area rated suitable for the specification of the VertEx.
This unit is not suitable for explosive dusts. Do not use for any unapproved materials.
Before any maintenance procedure, turn off and disconnect compressed air supply.
Ensure tank is fully drained.

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INTRODUCTION
Overview
Thank you for choosing VertEx 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 VertEx. We
recommend that the Responsible Person reads this manual fully prior to installation and operation of the
VertEx.
This document refers to the VertEx range. 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 VertEx
VertEx is a self-contained cross draught extraction system 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.
Filters are cleaned by pulsing clean air against the air flow, knocking dust off into the removable bins in the
base of the AirBench
It is used by running the fan at either fixed speed or variable speed (if speed controller fitted) to draw the
pollutant away and through the filters, allowing work or the process to proceed next to the face.
About this Document
This document provides general maintenance and operation instructions for the VertEx 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 VertEx 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).
Modular System
VertEx units are built as modular systems. For ease of shipping and installation, the top section may be
shipped separately. The top section is fitted with forklift eyes to enable positioning; note that these eyes are
not designed to lift the complete VertEx unit.
If using a forklift to position the top section on the base section, always ensure operators are fully trained
and that other users are outside the working zone of the forklift. Once loosely positioned, ensure mounting
holes are aligned and seal tape is not disturbed; then bolt top section into position.
Do not move the unit while the top section is not securely fastened.
If in doubt, contact us for advice.
Electrical
WIRING
VertEx 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.
VertEx can be supplied configured for multi-unit installations. In this instance a single electrical panel with
plugged connections will be provided.
EARTH BONDING
If in doubt consult a qualified electrician.
FUSES
Switched units: A fuse is provided on the switch front plate.

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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.
Compressed Air
VertEx VP requires a compressed air supply at 5 bar. Supplied air must be clean, and oil/moisture free.
Contaminated air will result in poor cleaning of filters, filter degradation, or failure of components. We
recommend installation of a shut-off valve, bleed-type regulator with gauge, filter, and condensate filter
prior to the air inlet to the AirBench.
You should regularly check the tank to ensure it is clean and dry internally. If moisture is present inside the
tank, this can lead to corrosion. Your insurer may also wish to access the tank for regular inspections and
you should ensure they are aware of the presence of an air receiver of 5l volume within this unit.
Ducted Units
As standard, VertExes are configured to discharge upwards through the top of the unit, without ductwork.
Ducting should not be retrofitted to the discharge from 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 250 or 300 mm
diameter).
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 VertEx.
ENCLOSURE
Enclosures are supplied flat packed for assembly at point of use. Each enclosure is supplied with
installation drawings and assembly should follow the process laid out in these drawings.

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COMMISSIONING
General
The initial commissioning and testing of your VertEx 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.

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OPERATION
This page contains the same information as the Quick Start guide provided with your VertEx.
Prior to use
Check the system logbook to ensure no routine maintenance is required.
General use
To use VertEx, 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, anoptimum setting may have been determined and this should be noted in the system
logbook.
Note that the fan will take some time to initialise and come to maximum power. Extraction is not fully
effective until the fan has reached full power.
Check the filter pressure gauge on the front of the unit. If the needle on the gauge is showing in the upper
red zone, check the filter condition –they may require cleaning or replacement. This can also be checked
against the filter inspection pressure drop readings in the Commissioning Certificate.
Your VertEx has a zone in front of the surface in which capture is most effective, extending approximately
1m forwards in normal use when no enclosure is fitted. 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. If an
enclosure is fitted, you should aim where possible to work within the enclosure.
Continue to work as normal, aiming to work within the extraction zone described above. On completion of
work, switch the VertEx 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 50% of the face or the air outlet.

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MAINTENANCE
Filter care
The filters must be maintained / cleaned / replaced as described below. Proper filter care is essential for
the effective operation of your VertEx. 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.
MAIN FILTER ACCESS
Main (Cartridge) Filters are accessed by turning the quarter turn latches on the front cover to loosen and
opening the front panel. Filters can be released by undoing the hand wheels and slid forward to remove.
Surfaces can be heavy and have sharp edges.
Wear appropriate hand protection.
HEPA FILTER ACCESS
The final stage HEPA filter (if fitted) is located in the filter unit to the top of the machine. This can be
accessed by removing the front door panel; then releasing the clamps holding the filter into position.

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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.
AIR TANK
Check for presence of moisture. If moisture is present within the tank - stop, and have it examined by a
specialist.
FILTER SEALS
These sit behind 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.
VENTILATED DOOR
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 VertEx. 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 VertEx 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 VertEx continuously with more than 75% of the face 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 VertEx 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

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Technical Data
Model
Width
Height
Depth
Nominal
Vent
Height
Weight
Fan Power
Max
Current
(mm)
(mm)
(mm)
(mm)
(kg)
(kw)
(a)
VP121218
1270
2465
700
1400
175
1.5
7.8
Data shown is for standard models excluding optional HEPA outlet filter. Check the Commissioning
Certificate for details specific to your unit.

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DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
Manufactured by:
AirBench Ltd.
6b Commerce Way,
Colchester,
Essex.
CO2 8HR
Responsible Person:
Simon Cook
Description:
Cross Draught Unit known as “VertEx”
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
BY AIRBENCH LIMITED
RELEVANT DIRECTIVES
EMC Directive 2014/30/EU (when connected to standard mains sinusoidal supply).
Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC
Low voltage Directive 2014/35/EU
- EN-60204–1:2018 (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 “VertExes”when supplied as self contained equipment comply with
the directives detailed above and therefore comply with requirements of the Low Voltage Directive.
Simon Cook