Delfin DG VL 185 EX1/3D

The DG VL series self-cleaning filter system (SELF CLEAN) combines two mechanisms: cyclic pulse-jet cleaning of the primary filter (star/pocket) and automatic vibration shaking via an eccentric motor mounted on top of the filter chamber. During operation the pulse is typically activated every 30-60 seconds or on detected pressure drop, loosening accumulated dust and sending it down into the collection tank. Practically this means the primary filter retains its nominal flow capacity over the entire working day without manual cleaning. On the DG EXP range (DG 30/70 EXP EX1/2D) the operator must stop the machine and shake the filter manually after approximately 2-4 hours of operation under heavy dust load -- a productivity loss of 15-30 minutes per interval, completely eliminated by SELF CLEAN.

Motor, cabinet, filter and performance are identical between the EX1/3D and EX1/2D variants of the DG VL 185 -- only the ATEX marking and covered zone area differ. The EX1/3D (marked II 1/3D Ex h IIIC T160°C Da/Dc) may be used in areas classified as external Zone 22, where an explosive dust atmosphere occurs only rarely or briefly during normal operation. The EX1/2D covers the stricter external Zone 21 (explosive dust atmosphere likely during normal operation). Both variants cover internal Zone 20 through the third-party certification -- the difference is only where the model may be used in the environment. Choose the EX1/3D for most industrial production environments (typically Zone 22 around process equipment); choose the EX1/2D when zone classification is Zone 21 or when future-proofing against zone reclassification in facility changes is valued.

The PTC motor heat sensor (Positive Temperature Coefficient thermistor) is fitted directly in the motor windings and measures winding temperature continuously. When temperature exceeds the motor's thermal limit (typically 130-150°C depending on insulation class), sensor resistance rises sharply and triggers the motor relay to disconnect. This protects the motor against thermal overload during long continuous operation, at high ambient temperature or on phase loss. On the DG VL 185 with 18.5 kW motor and 38.25 A current draw, the PTC sensor is standard -- the manufacturer's assessment is that it is necessary on this motor size to provide 10+ years of reliable operating life. PTC protection is not a direct legal requirement but is indirectly required by the Machinery Directive for motor protection (Annex I, 1.5.6) in case of thermal failure risk.

The noise level of 78 dB(A) is measured per EN ISO 3744 at 1 m distance in free air without suction accessories. Compared to the DG 30/70 EXP (72 dB(A) both), the DG VL 185 sits 6 dB(A) higher -- which is expected given the higher airflow (1350 m³/h versus 420-560 m³/h). In practical production environments the noise source is often dominated by surrounding process equipment and not the vacuum cleaner itself. The Danish Working Environment Act action limit for hearing protection is 85 dB(A) LEX,8h -- the DG VL 185 at 78 dB(A) is substantially below the limit even under 8 hours of continuous operation. More important for the user: when the self-cleaning filter is activated short pressure pulses can occur 5-10 dB(A) higher -- these are typically under 1 second and included in the average measurement.

The DG VL 185 weighs 200 kg and has a footprint of 1.80 x 0.77 m -- the machine is wheel-mounted (mobility: mobile-wheels) and can in theory be moved, but in practice it is too heavy for a single operator to move long distances. Typically there are two usage scenarios: (1) Permanent stationary placement in production with connection to a fixed pipe system and 3-phase 400 V group connection -- the preferred installation form. (2) Mobile use within a confined area with short moves on stable flooring (e.g. production hall with level concrete floor, indoors). For moves across door thresholds or up/down level differences, a forklift or pallet truck is recommended. The wheels are dimensioned for rolling on level floors -- not for long distance or outdoor terrain. For permanent installation the wheels can be removed and replaced with adjustable feet for stability.

The suction opening on the DG VL 185 is Ø 120 mm. To maintain at least 20 m/s transport air velocity -- the threshold below which coarse dust begins to settle in the hose -- the hose diameter must match, and 1350 m³/h flow must be distributed over the cross-section. Calculation: v = Q / A. At Ø 120 mm (A = 113 cm²), v = 1350 / (3600 * 0.0113) = 33 m/s -- ample. For usage situations with longer hose and bends the ANSI standard is to accept pressure drop up to 50 % of the machine's maximum vacuum. At 2600 mmH²O maximum vacuum this means the hose must be dimensioned so the pressure drop does not exceed 1300 mmH²O. In practice: up to 10 m hose at Ø 120 mm without bends, or up to 15 m with one 90° bend -- longer installations ahead require calculation of specific pipe pressure loss. Delfin can provide sizing calculation based on your installation.

Operating costs for the DG VL 185 typically split into three categories. (1) Electricity: at 18.5 kW and 400 V/3-phase, continuous operation consumes approximately 18.5 kWh per hour. At Danish commercial rate (approx. 1.20-1.80 DKK/kWh including taxes), this corresponds to 27.75 DKK/hour or approximately 111000.0 DKK/year at 16 hours' operation over 250 days. (2) Filters: primary filter (star/pocket, 70,000 cm²) costs approximately 2,500-4,000 DKK and is typically replaced every 12-24 months. HEPA H14 filter (103.500 cm²) costs approximately 4,500-7,500 DKK and is typically replaced every 24-48 months thanks to the SELF CLEAN system. (3) Service: annual preventive maintenance (oil change, bearing greasing, tightness check) costs approximately 3,500-5,500 DKK. Total cost of ownership approximately 15,000-30,000 DKK/year for the DG VL 185 under moderate load. Third-party certification (EU type-examination) must be renewed on major changes but is otherwise continuously valid with maintained serial-number register.