Dust Collector Types: 5 Main Industrial Systems Explained

Baghouse Dust Collector

Baghouse dust collectors use fabric filter bags to capture airborne dust with extremely high efficiency—up to 99.98%. Though they require more space and regular filter maintenance, they are reliable, durable, and ideal for heavy-duty industrial environments, especially where dust loads are high or temperatures are elevated.

• High-concentration dust

• Fine, dry particulate matter

• Ambient to high-temperature dust (e.g. cement, metallurgy, chemicals, wood)

Cartridge Dust Collector

Cartridge dust collectors use pleated filter cartridges to capture fine particles with a compact design and high filtration surface area. They are ideal for light to moderate dust loads and environments with limited space. Maintenance is easier compared to traditional baghouse systems, but they are less suitable for high-temperature or sticky dust.

• Fine, dry dust

• Low to medium dust concentrations

• Ambient temperature dust (e.g. metalworking, welding fumes, pharmaceutical, electronics)

Cyclone Dust Collector

Cyclone dust collectors use centrifugal force to separate heavier dust particles from the airstream—without any filter media. They are low-maintenance and suitable for pre-filtration or standalone use in applications where large, dry, and non-sticky particles are present. While not effective for fine dust, they are an economical solution for bulk dust removal.

• Large, dry particulate matter

• Non-sticky, coarse dust

• High-volume dust environments (e.g. woodworking, grain processing, cement pre-filtration)

Wet Dust Collector

Wet dust collectors use water or other liquids to capture and neutralize dust particles, making them ideal for handling flammable, explosive, or sticky dust that traditional dry collectors can’t manage safely. They are effective in applications requiring spark control or where dust is hygroscopic or corrosive.

• Combustible or explosive dust

• Sticky, moist, or corrosive particulate

• Applications needing spark suppression (e.g. metal grinding, chemical processing, aluminum/magnesium dust)

Sintered Plate Dust Collector

Sintered plate dust collectors utilize rigid, high-performance filter elements made from sintered polyethylene or PTFE. These filters capture ultra-fine dust on the surface and can be cleaned and reused multiple times—offering long service life and reduced maintenance costs. With low pressure drop and excellent filtration stability, they’re ideal for demanding, high-purity environments.

• Ultra-fine, dry particulate

• Washable and reusable filter media

• Suitable for industries like lithium battery, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and 3D printing