Combustible wood dust refers to the fine, dry wood particles that are a by-product of milling wood. This animated video explains why it's such a hazard in sawmills and wood shops

Exposure to wood dust has been associated with health issues due to the natural chemicals in the wood, or substances in the wood such as bacteria, molds, or fungi, according to the Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety. Wood dust is considered carcinogenic to humans according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). IARC states that wood dust causes cancer of the nasal cavity (nose area) and paranasal sinuses (spaces in and around the nasal cavity) and the nasopharynx (upper part of the throat, behind the nose).

Recent research has revealed ten unexpectedly explosive materials, including wood dust, due to combustible dust.  Experts in dust extraction, Extraction Solutions, found the explosive power of ten non-suspecting materials using the KST deflagration index of dust, which ranges from no risk of explosion (ST 0) to a very strong explosion rating (ST 3).

When it comes time to purchase or upgrade a baghouse dust collector for your operation, consider the following factors to help ensure you get exactly what you need.

If the filter on your dust collector clogs quickly – it collects as much dust and debris as you find in the drum – it’s likely there’s an air leak somewhere below the cyclone.