Reduce tool noise and airborne contaminants
July 01st 2008

A new compressed air technology called the Exhausted Air Recycling System or E.A.R.S., is producing substantial benefits in relation to workplace health and safety

With conventional compressed air systems considerable noise is emitted from the air tools. Even when filters and silencers are installed, noise levels can still be exceedingly high which is hazardous to operators as well as others in the vicinity. Air tools also release exhausted air which can contain infiltrated contaminants such as rust, mould and oil particles. As these contaminants become airborne there is the risk of them being potentially inhaled.

The exhausted air which is also emitted from conventional air tools can contain rust, mold and chemical particles.

As these infiltrated contaminants become airborne there is the added risk of them being inhaled.

EARS provides a closed loop between the air compressor and the air tool by capturing the exhausted air and returning it to the patented EARS manifold fitted to the compressor. With the capture of exhausted air at the pneumatic product, all the noise and contaminants normally ejected next to the user are sent back to the compressor via filters. This means exhaust noise is significantly reduced and all tool lubrication oil or foreign matter travelling in the air is also taken away.

Additionally there is no exhausted air blowing dust or other matter around the workshop, ensuring a cleaner and far quieter work environment.

The EARS system was first released in Australia with remarkable results and has already received more than 6 prestigious awards including the 'Innovation Award' for 'Professional Tools and Equipment News' and the OHS WorkSafe 'Best Solution to a Health and Safety Risk'.

Whether using an EARS compressor with EARS tooling, or a retrofit kit for existing tools and compressors, the benefits of using this new system are significant. Other benefits include reduced power consumption due to the re-circulating exhausted air allowing the compressor to work much less to generate and maintain the pressure needed. Energy costs are reduced due to the ability of this E.A.R.S. optimised compressor to deliver an air volume that could only otherwise be achieved with conventional technology by using a larger motor with a higher consumption.

The EARS tool system is now available in the UK through its exclusive distributor, Tom Parker.

More articles from Tom Parker Ltd: