Air extraction for metalworking

Health and safety risks in metalworking processes

Each metalworking process produces specific pollutants that pose serious risks to workers’ health and can degrade product quality. Let’s explore the dangers associated with these processes:

1. Welding Fumes

Welding processes release a mix of toxic fumes, including metal oxides, gases, and particulates. Particularly, common metals like steel, aluminum, and stainless steel emit hazardous substances such as manganese, hexavalent chromium, and nickel. Inhalation of welding fumes can cause respiratory irritation, metal fume fever, and long-term conditions like chronic bronchitis and lung cancer. Hexavalent chromium exposure, in particular, is carcinogenic, posing severe health risks.

2. Thermal Cutting

Thermal cutting methods like plasma cutting, laser cutting, and oxy-fuel cutting generate fine particulates and gases, including nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and ozone. These pollutants can cause respiratory problems, eye irritation, and long-term health issues like asthma. The high temperatures involved can also release toxic fumes from coatings or paints on metal surfaces, adding to the health risks.

3. CNC Milling and Lathes

CNC milling and lathe operations generate metal dust and fine chips that can become airborne during machining. Inhalation of these metal particles, especially from materials like aluminum, brass, or steel, can cause respiratory issues, including occupational asthma and pneumoconiosis. Additionally, oil mist and coolant vapors used in CNC operations can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Oil mist accumulation in CNC machines have also been know to short electrical components and create unintended machine stoppage.

4. Foundry Operations

Foundries involve the melting, casting, and molding of metals, producing large amounts of airborne pollutants such as silica dust, metal fumes, and chemical vapors. Exposure to silica dust can cause silicosis, a severe lung disease, while metal fumes and gases can lead to respiratory and cardiovascular problems. Foundry workers are also exposed to heat stress and potentially toxic gases like carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide.

How Coral industrial air filtration systems mitigate metalworking pollutants

Coral Industrial Air Filtration Systems are specifically designed to capture and filter hazardous pollutants from metalworking processes, providing numerous benefits for health, safety, and productivity.

1. High-efficiency filtration of fumes and dust Coral’s filtration systems effectively capture fine particulates, welding fumes, and metal dust, even those as small as a few microns.  Our advanced filter media ensure that toxic substances like hexavalent chromium and silica are removed from the air, protecting workers from inhaling harmful contaminants.
2. Protection for worker health By reducing exposure to toxic fumes and dust, Coral air filtration systems safeguard workers from respiratory illnesses, skin irritation, and long-term health conditions. This helps to create a healthier work environment and reduces absenteeism due to work-related health issues.
3. Improved product quality Airborne metal particles and fumes can settle on finished products, affecting their appearance, surface quality, and functionality. Coral systems maintain a clean environment, ensuring that products remain free from contaminants and meet high-quality standards.
4. Compliance with health and safety regulations
   Many industries must adhere to strict occupational health and safety regulations regarding exposure limits for metal dust and fumes. Coral Industrial Air Filtration Systems help businesses meet these regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of fines and legal issues.
5. Extended equipment life and reduced maintenance
   Metal dust and oil mist can settle on machinery, leading to wear and tear, decreased efficiency, and costly maintenance. Coral’s filtration systems capture these pollutants before they settle, extending the lifespan of equipment and minimizing maintenance costs.
6. Energy efficiency and sustainable operations
   Coral air filtration systems are designed to provide high performance with minimal energy consumption, reducing operational costs and supporting sustainability goals. Efficient filtration helps businesses reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining a safe and clean work environment.

 

Coral Industrial Air Filtration Systems provide an essential solution for capturing and controlling pollutants, ensuring a cleaner, safer, and more efficient workplace. To learn more about how Coral Industrial Air Filtration Systems can benefit your metalworking operations, contact us today and take the first step toward.