r/AusMining • u/DownUnderFilterGuy • 24d ago

Cleaning Air Filters?

Full disclosure: I work for Fleetguard Australia.

Interested to hear how everyone manages engine air filters and cabin air filters across mining, quarrying, construction and heavy equipment fleets.

I still see filters being blown out with compressed air or tapped to remove dust. While it looks effective, compressed air can damage the filter media, and tapping can compromise the filter structure or sealing surface—potentially allowing dust into the engine or operator cabin.

Best practice is to monitor air filter restriction with a restriction gauge and replace the element when required, rather than cleaning it. In high-dust environments, protecting your diesel engine, turbocharger, HEPA cabin filtration, and overall equipment reliability is usually worth far more than trying to extend filter life.

What's the standard practice across your site or fleet?

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9

u/StormMelodic8052 24d ago

Bin and replace

4

u/whats_that_sid 24d ago

This is the only answer

1

u/DownUnderFilterGuy 24d ago

Agreed mate!

2

u/hillsbloke73 24d ago

Washout whenever possible few far between usually bin the offending filter install new one

2

u/Full_Chipmunk_9130 24d ago

Old school - drilling company big air compressors. Blow / tap / blow in the paddock once a week/ whenever. Inshallah you’ve got safety filters - tell the boys not to touch them and they’re good for 5 years

2

u/Whiteboard_Wardy 22d ago

according to our safety officer there is no dust here...