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What is a Downdraft Table used for? 

A downdraft table is a type of industrial equipment used for the collection and removal of dust, smoke, and other contaminants that are produced during manufacturing processes. The table is typically made of a flat surface with a built-in ventilation system that sucks in contaminated air from the top and filters it before exhaust it to the outside. This allows for the efficient capture of pollutants at the source, helping to keep the air in the surrounding workspace clean and safe to breathe. Downdraft tables are commonly used in woodworking, metalworking, and other industries where dust and debris are produced.

Are Downdraft Tables Effective? 

Downdraft tables can be effective at capturing dust, smoke, and other contaminants at the source, depending on the design and proper operation. They are commonly used to control air pollution in industrial settings, where large amounts of dust and debris are produced. The effectiveness of a downdraft table depends on a number of factors, including the size and design of the table, the strength of the built-in ventilation system, and the type and size of the particles being captured.

Properly designed and used downdraft table with properly functioning filters, can be effective in controlling the emissions of particulate matter, as well as some fumes and smoke generated by certain operation. However, it's also important to note that sometimes other equipment such as Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV) can be necessary for more effective control.

Additionally, it’s also important to note that the downdraft table's effectiveness may be hindered if not properly maintained, such as not regularly changing or cleaning the filters. Also if the table is overwhelmed by the amount of dust or contaminants produced by the process, then it will not be able to capture all of it.