Local capture of pollutants
Local capture of pollutants is a IAQ control strategy that aims to remove pollutants at or near their point of origin, preventing them from dispersing into the broader indoor environment. This approach is particularly effective for pollutants generated by localized sources, such as cooking fumes, dust from construction activities, or emissions from specific appliances.
Applications of local capture
- Kitchen range hoods: These are common examples of local capture systems, designed to remove cooking fumes and odors.
- Dust collection systems: Used in workshops and industrial settings to capture dust and other airborne particles generated by tools and machinery.
- Fume hoods: Used in laboratories to capture and exhaust hazardous fumes and vapors.
Considerations for Effective Local Capture
To ensure the effectiveness of local capture systems, consider the following factors:
- Hood design: The hood should be designed to effectively capture the pollutants emitted from the source. This may involve adjusting the hood's size, shape, and placement.
- Airflow rate: The fan should provide sufficient airflow to capture and remove the pollutants. The required airflow rate depends on the size of the hood and the nature of the pollutant source.
- Maintenance: Regularly clean and maintain the hood, ductwork, air cleaner, and fan to ensure optimal performance.