WELDING TABLES WITH FUME EXTRACTION

Welding tables with built-in fume extraction systems are usually simple to maintain and operate. However, they do require regular maintenance to ensure that they function optimally and provide a safe working environment. Be sure to follow all maintenance guidelines in the user manual for your specific weld table. Here’s a rundown of the typical maintenance tasks:

• Change filters: Filters must be changed regularly as they become loaded. The filter changing schedule will depend on the volume of weld fume produced and the type of filters used. A compressed air filter pulsing mechanism can extend the life of weld table air filters.  
• Clean spark traps: If the system comes with built-in spark arrestance, the spark control system must be cleaned regularly to prevent buildup of grime. 
• Empty dust tray/containment: The weld table may come with a dust tray that needs to be emptied regularly or a particulate clean-out area that must be swept or vacuumed out. 
• Clean air intake and outlets: Clean the air intakes and outlets to prevent buildup of grime. The intake in particular needs regular cleaning to prevent clogging with larger particles, spatter or slag and ensure optimal airflow. 
• Motor/blower maintenance: Fans or blowers used to create negative pressure and pull in fumes might require cleaning, lubrication, or, in some cases, replacement parts.

Backdraft tables and downdraft tables are both designed to capture and extract fumes and particulates produced during welding and similar processes. The primary difference lies in the direction in which they extract those fumes. Backdraft tables pull weld fumes up and away from the source, while downdraft tables pull fumes and dust down through perforations or grates in the work surface. For welding fume extraction, a backdraft table is generally preferred over a downdraft table. This is because weld fumes naturally rise due to the heat involved in the process. Backdraft tables capture these rising fumes more effectively by pulling them horizontally away from the welder. When using downdraft tables, some of the weld fume often escapes upward out of the capture zone, allowing fume to accumulate in the breathing zone and escape the weld booth into the larger facility. Backdraft tables do a better job of keeping weld fume away from the welder’s face for superior welding safety and visibility. Downdraft tables, however, are often preferred for the heavier particulate produced by manual cutting and grinding.

All-in-one welding booths integrate a welding table with a weld fume extraction system. A backdraft table is designed to capture welding fumes by pulling them away horizontally from the welder’s work area. It then filters the air before returning clean air to the facility. Here’s how it operates:

• Table Design: The welding table typically has a solid flat surface for work. Along the back or side of the table, there’s a raised extraction area, often equipped with slots, grates, or perforations.
• Rising Fumes: As welding commences, the heat causes fumes to rise. Given their natural upward trajectory, they start to move toward the extraction area.
• Extraction System: Behind the perforated back or side area, there’s an extraction system comprised of fans or blowers. This system creates negative pressure, effectively pulling the fumes toward and through the perforated area.
• Filtration: Once the fumes are pulled into the system, they pass through one or more filters that capture particulates.
• Cleaned Air Recirculation: After filtering, the cleaned air is recirculated back into the workshop, ensuring energy efficiency, especially in environments where heating or cooling is essential.

All-in-one welding booths offer significant advantages for manual welders for many applications. They are also a cost-effective option for weld shops since they eliminate the need for a separate dust collection system. Welding tables with a built-in welding fume extraction system, such as the VentBoss S220 and S230, provide a plug-and-play solution that makes weld fume collection simple. Welders don’t need to worry about the exact placement of the welded piece on the table, and they don’t need to continually readjust a fume arm—they just place the piece on the work surface and weld. The backdraft welding fume extractor pulls weld fumes up and away from the breathing zone, keeping welders safe and facilities in compliance. Weld tables with fume extraction benefits include: 

• Simplicity and ease of use
• Worker safety
• Cost efficiency 
• Space savings

Welding tables with integrated backdraft extraction systems can be used for any type of manual welding, including MIG, stick and flux-core welding or manual resistance welding or laser welding. A weld table with built-in fume extraction is a great choice for smaller weldments that can be placed on a work surface. All-in-one welding booths are great options for weld schools, small fabrication shops, and any environment supporting individual manual welders. Learn more about weld table selection.