Leader in atomised mist technology and dust control solutions BossTek has introduced a “powerful, mobile, mid-sized dust control cannon”, in response to input from customers across the demolition and bulk materials handling sectors.

The DustBoss DB-45 Surge is the next iteration of the popular Surge series, featuring an innovative pressurised centre nozzle, paired with the industry-proven fan and misting ring system, to suppress both surface dust and airborne particulates.

With three remote-controlled stages and “precision oscillation for optimum command over water volume and coverage area”, the DB-45 Surge delivers the dependability of atomised mist along with jet-to-plume (J2P) nozzle technology that surges for over 60 m, even in troublesome windy conditions. The result is an easily manoeuvrable, autonomous, and versatile dust control solution for outdoor operations in all weather conditions.

“Our first iteration of this technology was larger, for operations with high-reach cranes and enormous coverage areas,” explains BossTek dust control specialist Mike Lewis.

“Managers of medium-sized and smaller operations were impressed with the existing technology but wanted a lighter and more compact option that offered the same excellent field-tested versatility and results. With a 60 m throw range, I’d say that most of our customers will be well-served by the new model,” he says.

Demolition contractors with high-reach cranes, port operators that host tall cargo ships, and bulk handlers with tall stockpiles of raw material commonly experience windy conditions high above the ground.

In turbulent situations, dust is lifted into the atmosphere and carried beyond the site line over long distances, which can lead to permit violations. Operators often mitigate particulate emissions using sprinklers or hoses to saturate a material’s surface. The stronger the wind, the more water pressure is required to break through the wind shear, resulting in greater amounts of water filling the surrounding work area – often 1 135 ℓ/m or more.

The DB-45 Surge combines the power of a 25-hp industrial fan, misting ring and heavy-duty barrel with the reach of a central high-pressure spray nozzle. The misting ring introduces millions of tiny dust-capturing droplets into an area for proven dust suppression. The pressurised spray resists wind shear and uses the force of the wind to further fragment droplets, enhancing its dust suppression capabilities. This is achieved with a maximum of 372 ℓ/m and as little as 77 ℓ/m when using only the misting ring and fan. The cannon also features a variable-frequency drive, which allows the unit to operate more efficiently at lower water pressure.

The three stages are easily input using the touch screen system, protected by a sealed NEMA 4 cabinet or controlled by a heavy-duty handheld remote control with a 305 m range. Stage 1 is highly effective on moderate days and uses the powerful 849.5 CMM fan and misting ring for wide area coverage.

For windy days, Stage 2 features a pressurised stream delivered by the J2P nozzle to pinpoint the source of the dust. On high wind days, operators can choose Stage 3, which uses the fan, misting ring and centre nozzle for maximum coverage.

The DB-45 Surge is thus “set it and forget it” autonomous equipment, unlike hoses and industrial sprinklers, which typically require constant manual labour to monitor and operate. Manual operation keeps workers in active zones near moving equipment, increasing the chance of injury and raising the costs of operation for sprinklers and hoses owing to extra labour and possible liability.

The DB-45 Surge addresses wind, labour and water usage issues. While striving to stay compliant with dust regulations, operators can now better match the water requirements to the specific application. Fed by a standard 38 mm hose with a cam-and-groove quick disconnect coupling, the powerful booster pump delivers as much as 27.5 bar of water pressure to the centre nozzle.

The coverage area is extended with the customisable 260º horizontal oscillation range and 0º to 50º vertical throw angle. Mounted on a heavy-duty roadworthy trailer for towing at highway speeds with a standard ball hitch, it can be placed by a pickup truck, skid steer or lift truck wherever dust suppression is needed.

As supplied, the DB-45 Surge can run potable or nonpotable water, as it is equipped with two in-line 30 mesh, 595 μm filters to avoid clogging. One filter is located at the water entry point to the booster pump, and another is located prior to the pipe feeding the central nozzle.

Other options are already available, including tower mounting for permanent locations. The cannon is also available as part of the company’s Fusion line-up, pairing the DB-45 Surge with a trailer-mounted generator to alleviate the need for a nearby power source. With a 15 hp booster pump, the unit only requires a 45 kW generator, which is readily available to most demolition contractors.

“The DustBoss product line is known for its rugged quality and long service life, often described as one of the most reliable and low-maintenance pieces of equipment on any job site,” Lewis concludes.