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Dust levels often exceed safety limits long before they become visible to the human eye. In climbing gyms, fine dust particles typically range from 0.1 to 10 micrometers, with ultra-fine particles (smaller than 0.1 micrometers) posing the greatest health risk. These microscopic particles enter the body through the lungs and can spread to nearly all organs. The highest dust concentrations in climbing gyms are found in the 2.5 to 10-micrometer range, which can cause pulmonary inflammation and linger in the lungs after climbers leave the gym. One study found that lung function decreased by as much as 20% in climbers exposed to high dust levels.
Put simply central ventilation systems aren’t designed to for the specific needs of climbing gyms. Typically, they provide only 1 to 1.5 air changes per hour, while heavily polluted areas require 4 to 6 air changes for effective air quality control. These systems are typically installed at ceiling level, but fine dust particles (5-10 micrometers) are relatively heavy and settle on floors and mats, continuously resuspending as climbers move. Additionally, central systems often lack the airflow strength needed to push these particles toward filters for proper removal.
The most effective way to control dust levels is at the source, capturing particles as close as possible to where they are generated. That’s why the ClimbLab system offers flexible installation options-including wall-mounted, hanging, and floor-based setups-allowing you to tailor placement to your gym’s high-chalk areas for optimal control.
The ClimbLab filtration system allows for close-to-source installation, ensuring dust particles are captured efficiently. Equipped with a high-airflow fan, it generates the necessary suction to direct airborne particles into the filter for effective collection.
By integrating this system, you can significantly improve your gym’s air exchange rate, addressing the common issue of poor ventilation. Most HVAC units operate with a low air exchange ratio of less than 1.5, which is often inadequate for climbing gyms.
Designed specifically for magnesium dust particles ranging from 0.1 to <10 micrometers, ClimbLab’s A+ rated filters maximise air quality while maintaining low energy consumption. ClimbLab offer two options: electrostatic filters, which provide the lowest operational costs, and pocket filters, which offer a lower initial investment.
For electrostatic filters, cassette cleaning is required every three months. ClimbLab’s pocket filters run for six months before needing cleaning and filter replacement.
ClimbLab’s electrostatic filters efficiently capture chalk dust by electrically charging particles and attracting them to negatively charged collection plates. To maximize performance, airflow and electrostatic voltage have been carefully optimized for peak efficiency.
These filters offer exceptionally low operating costs and are Eurovent-recommended for their minimal energy consumption, with a single unit running for as little as £16 per year.
Beyond energy efficiency, the reusable filter cassettes provide a cost-effective and sustainable solution. When full, the cassette can simply be rinsed with water and soap before reinsertion—eliminating the need for frequent replacements.
Designed for whisper-quiet operation, ClimbLab’s electrostatic filters run at just 52 dBA, making them virtually silent once installed.
Pocket filters are a widely used, traditional filtration method. ClimbLab has specifically optimized these filters to handle the high concentrations of chalk dust found in climbing gyms.
The MERV rating has been carefully selected to target chalk dust particle sizes, ensuring efficient filtration. Additionally, the widest and longest filter design is used to maximize airflow while minimizing energy consumption, earning an A+ energy rating.
Larger filters also allow for extended service intervals, with ClimbLab’s pocket filters operating for up to six months before requiring maintenance.
Interested? You should be. We offer expert guidance on the best ClimbLab solutions for your gym, along with professional installation services. Enquire below.