Help Guide: The Two Different Collection Systems for Industrial Vacuum Cleaners

The collection system is an important consideration when selecting an industrial vacuum cleaner.

This guide explains the two main collection systems commonly available: Continuous Bag Systems and Barrel Collection Systems. Understanding how each option works will help you identify the most suitable solution for your site.

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Barrel Collection System

The Barrel Collection System is the most common collection method used on industrial vacuum cleaners.

Collected material is deposited into a rigid metal container positioned beneath the filtration system. Once the container reaches capacity, it is removed, emptied, and returned to the vacuum for continued use.

Barrel Collection Systems are suitable for a wide range of applications and can be used to collect dry dust, heavier debris, and, on compatible models, liquids.

Benefits

Limitations

Simple, durable design: The rigid collection container is designed for repeated use without disposable bags.

Greater operator exposure during emptying: Removing and tipping the container may expose operators to collected dust or debris.

Suitable for a wide range of materials: Ideal for collecting dust, larger debris, swarf and, on suitable models, liquids.

Requires manual handling: Larger containers can become heavy when full and may require additional effort to empty safely.

No ongoing consumable costs: The same collection container is emptied and reused throughout the life of the vacuum cleaner.

Interrupts cleaning: The collection container must be removed and emptied before operation can continue.

Available in a range of capacities: Different container sizes allow the vacuum to be matched to the application.

Less suitable for hazardous dusts: Additional precautions may be required when disposing of hazardous materials.

Easy to inspect: Operators can quickly monitor the fill level and empty the container as required.

Increased risk of spillage: Material can be spilled during transport or emptying if the container is not handled carefully.

Liquid Containers

Within the range are industrial vacuum cleaners suited to removing liquids and water in food production environments.

These feature solid containers with drains for quick, easy liquid removal: the hose can simply be released from its holder, angled downward, and used to drain the container.

This system helps teams to avoid lengthy downtime and reduces the risk of operator injury, as there’s no need to lift and tip heavy, liquid-filled containers.

Continuous Bag System

A Continuous Bag System is designed to allow collected material to be disposed of with minimal operator input. Instead of collecting dust within a removable container, material is deposited into a continuous tube of durable plastic film. As the bag fills, the operator quickly seals and separates the filled section before continuing to collect material using the remaining length of the bag.

This enclosed disposal method makes Continuous Bag Systems particularly well suited to applications involving fine powders, hazardous dusts, or environments where reducing operator exposure is a priority.

Step 1

Seal the bag cassette at one end with a cable tie. Once the “bag” starts to fill, pull it down so new material is drawn from the cassette to make it longer.

Step 2

To make a new bag, pull the material down from the cassette until it is the length that you require. Seal it at the top with a cable tie.

Step 3

Add another cable tie above the first one and cut the bag material between the two cable ties. The entire process takes less than 30 seconds.

Benefits

Limitations

Minimises operator exposure: Collected material remains enclosed within a sealed bag during disposal, reducing contact with dust.

Primarily intended for dry materials: Continuous Bag Systems are best suited to dry dusts and powders rather than liquids or larger debris.

Reduces environmental contamination: Sealing the bag before removal helps to prevent dust from becoming airborne during emptying.

Ongoing consumable costs: Replacement bag rolls are required throughout the life of the vacuum cleaner.

Supports continuous operation: Filled sections can be sealed and removed quickly, helping to minimise downtime.

Not available on every model: Continuous Bag Systems are typically offered on vacuums designed for dust collection rather than general wet-and-dry applications.

Suitable for hazardous dust applications: Well suited to environments where safe disposal of fine or potentially hazardous dust is required.

Less suitable for bulky waste: Larger offcuts, swarf and other heavy materials are generally better suited to rigid collection containers.

Reduces manual handling: Operators handle sealed bags rather than loose collected material, helping to minimise spills during disposal.

By considering the type of material being collected, the frequency of use, and the method of disposal, you can choose the right Collection System for your site.

For any questions about the Klipspringer range of Industrial Vacuum Cleaners and Accessory Kits, contact us on 01473461800 or sales@klipspringer.com. Alternatively, you can fill out the contact form below and we will be in touch.

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