Keeping on top of dust

C&D transfer station achieves around-the-clock dust control

March 15, 2010

Cooper Tank Transfer is an innovative NY transfer station where they have employed a high-efficiency dust suppression system since 2009. The system has created a virtual dust blanket over the entire tipping area, which is central to the busy 40,000 square-foot site which processes around 1,300 tons of
construction and demolition debris per day. Cooper Tank Transfer mounted their oscillating DustBoss DB-30 unit on a stationary I-beam, about 20 feet off the ground, in order to obtain maximum reach and coverage. According to Cooper Tank Transfer, the DustBoss has been running 24 hours a day, six days a week for over a year, delivering effective dust management to protect workers, commercial neighbours and the surrounding environment.

The facility has employed several methods of dust control since its opening in 1986, including an extensive perimeter misting system, wind screens and manual spraying. All provided some benefit, but in the face of tightening regulations and increasing environmental awareness, company officials began investigating advanced technologies to improve dust management even further.

“In our operations, huge quantities of dust can be released in just a few seconds when trucks are dumping or front loaders are transporting material,” observed general manager Ray Kvedaras. “We wanted to find a technique that would address the problem in the immediate area, right as it was occurring.”

To accomplish this goal, the company purchased their DustBoss DB-30 (the smallest in a family of high-performance suppression equipment from Dust Control Technology, out of Peoria, Illinois. The versatile unit has a 7.5-hp motor that generates 9,200 CFM of air movement, and it features a ring of specially-designed brass nozzles that atomize the water supply to droplets between 50 and 200 microns in size for maximum particle attraction.

The ducted fan design has an adjustable throw angle from 0-50 degrees elevation and oscillates up to 70 degrees. With a throw of up to 100 feet from ground level, it delivers exceptional coverage of more than 5,000 square feet using just a standard 5/8 inch garden hose. From its elevated perch at the Cooper transfer station, the unit’s reach is far greater.

Because of its compact size, the DB-30 can be an extremely effective option for indoor locations or confined spaces. The machine comes with a 1-1/2 inch pre-filter with quick cam release for easy access, and it can be set up to run potable or non-potable water. Options include single phase or international motors, carriage mount for easy mobility and a dosing pump for odor control or other additives.

The Cooper facility has developed into a well-respected organization over the years, providing a vital service for the waste handling and recycling industries in New York City. Currently processing more than 400,000 tons of C&D waste per year, about 80 percent of its intake is recycled to beneficial uses. Excavators with grapples handle much of the conveyor loading, and material is screened twice to remove fines and debris under 12 inches in size, which is processed mechanically. Ferrous metals are removed by magnet, while stone and brick are separated with an air knife. Larger pieces are separated by one of 16 manual pickers on the conveyor line.

“Another benefit of the DustBoss is that it doesn’t soak the conveyor or debris pile the way manual spraying does,” added Kvedaras. “Too much water can cause the screens to block up with a mucky residue, which complicates processing and increases maintenance,” he said.

According to Kvedaras, the primary benefit is the ability to create a constant mist, without dedicating additional manpower to the effort. “Using the DustBoss helps prevent us from being caught off-guard by a particularly dry or dusty load,” he added. “It also contributes to our overall commitment to environmental responsibility and respect for our neighbors. It’s been a very effective technique for us.”