Metal Dust Collector for Torch Cutting Titanium | A.C.T. Dust Collectors

A globally-based high alloy scrap recycler - the largest of its kind - was using oxy‑propane torch cutting to downsize oversized titanium scrap. The process produced dense smoke and metallic debris that had been exhausted outdoors, creating visible opacity and drawing regulatory scrutiny.

To keep production on schedule and meet stringent air quality expectations (including DEEP compliance requirements), the recycler needed a high‑performance metal dust collector system - quickly.

They engaged A.C.T. Dust Collectors, and brought in Aquest Corporation - an authorized dealer - to engineer and install a system purpose‑built for combustible titanium dust collection, weld smoke, and continuous‑duty cutting operations. 

This case study shows how that partnership delivered a tailored solution and why it matters to environmental health and safety managers, facilities engineers, operations directors, and compliance officers responsible for industrial dust control and dust extraction for welding and cutting operations.

The Challenge with Torch‑Cutting Titanium

Torch cutting titanium releases a volatile mix of heat, molten metal and micron‑sized particulates. Once oxidized, those particles can linger in the air for hours. Add incandescent sparks and any settled fines and you have a serious ignition risk.

The facility's original approach of venting emissions directly outdoors created immediate compliance issues. Uncontrolled emissions also threatened worker health, neighboring properties, and long‑term equipment reliability. The customer needed comprehensive dust control that could be deployed rapidly, handle high particulate loading, and adhere to rigorous safety practices for combustible metal dust extraction. Key needs included:

• Safe capture and extraction of metal dust from both manual and future automated cutting systems
• A scalable architecture for additional torches or automated saw/torch lines
• Clear documentation to support OSHA and DEEP compliance without disclosing sensitive enforcement details
• Minimal disruption to production during installation and commissioning
  
  

The Solution: A Metal Dust Collector System Built for Titanium

Facing intensifying opacity concerns and increasing regulatory scrutiny, the recycler turned to A.C.T. Dust Collectors. Aquest Corporation, as an authorized A.C.T. dealer, designed and installed a custom, multi‑collector A.C.T. system engineered specifically for titanium processing environments and industrial dust extraction.

Aquest Corporation at a Glance

Aquest Corporation has established itself as a national leader in the design, engineering, installation, and field services of specialized air pollution control systems, including A.C.T. dust collection equipment. 

Over 40 years, they have steadily expanded their expertise, offering a broad spectrum of indoor and outdoor air quality solutions that exceed industry standards. The entire Aquest staff is technically competent and service‑oriented, with a strong record of solving complex air quality and compliance challenges.

Core Elements of the Installation

• Integrated Fire Protection: Seamless tie‑in with a Fike argon suppression system for combustible metal environments. Rapid detection and inerting neutralize ignition events without introducing water - unsafe for burning metals.
• Source Capture Strategy: Custom hoods and strategically placed collectors surrounded cutting zones, capturing smoke and sparks at the source and eliminating the visible plumes that had caused opacity issues.
• Automated Filter Cleaning: Pulse‑clean controls maintain steady airflow and extend filter life, reducing manual intervention and downtime.
• Monitoring & Maintainability: Real‑time performance data and easy service access enable proactive maintenance with minimal impact on throughput.

The system was intentionally modular, allowing the recycler to scale as process demands evolve, adding torches or integrating automated lines without compromising performance or safety in their torch cutting operations.

Results

The installation of three A.C.T. Dust Collectors delivered immediate, measurable improvements across multiple operational areas:

• Visible emissions eliminated: Smoke is captured and filtered before discharge, bringing stack opacity well within allowable limits and eliminating the compliance concerns that had prompted this project.
• Regulatory assurance: With emissions under control and comprehensive documentation in place, the recycler operates confidently under regulatory scrutiny and maintains DEEP compliance expectations without operational disruptions.
• Continuous operation: The collectors run reliably through peak demand and routine shifts, keeping air clear across the cutting floor. The system handles high volumes of titanium dust collection without performance degradation.
• Reduced upkeep costs: Optimised media and automated cleaning extend filter life significantly; scheduled maintenance windows are shorter and less frequent, reducing both labor costs and production downtime.
• Improved work environment: Operators report clearer visibility and noticeably cleaner air, which are vital for safety and productivity. The elimination of visible smoke has also improved relations with neighboring facilities.
• Enhanced safety profile: The integrated fire suppression system provides peace of mind when processing flammable metal dust, while the reliable dust collect performance reduces accumulation risks throughout the facility.
  
  

Why They Chose A.C.T. Dust Collectors

Even after considering other vendors, the recycler selected A.C.T. Dust Collectors for three main reasons:

• Proven performance with high particulate and combustible loads: A.C.T. units have a demonstrated track record in metalworking settings that deal with flammable metal dust and heavy industrial dust collection demands. Their equipment consistently handles the challenging particulate loads generated by torch cutting operations.
• Regulatory fluency: Familiarity with opacity and particulate rules shortened the path to compliance. Aquest's local engineering expertise ensured designs aligned with OSHA and DEEP compliance parameters, without exposing confidential enforcement details.
• Speed to solution: A.C.T. moved quickly from design to fabrication and installation. Aquest amplified that speed with on‑the‑ground project management and service support, making the partnership the lowest‑risk, highest‑confidence route to a durable, compliant system.
  
  

Conclusion

This project illustrates how a well‑engineered dust collector solution delivered through an experienced dealer partnership can solve complex combustible titanium dust collection challenges without sacrificing production. By combining robust equipment design, integrated safety systems, and regulatory know‑how, A.C.T. Dust Collectors and Aquest Corporation helped the world's largest high alloy scrap recycler stay compliant and efficient.

The success of this installation demonstrates A.C.T.'s expertise in handling the most demanding industrial dust extraction applications, from flammable metal dust to high-volume torch cutting operations. For facilities dealing with similar challenges in metalworking, recycling, or thermal processing, this case study provides a proven roadmap to achieving both compliance and operational excellence.

Need a robust metal dust collector for your facility? A.C.T. serves customers nationwide with regional teams positioned to respond quickly - explore our local support in:

• Minnesota Industrial Dust Collection
• Texas Industrial Dust Collection
• Ohio Industrial Dust Collection

Request a quote or contact our team today to discuss your application and see a demo.