Choose the correct fume extraction equipment for welding and fabricating with stainless steel. This can protect you from the dangers and health impacts of hexavalent chromium which is primarily related to welding stainless steel.
We recommend the
MFS (SELF-CLEANING FILTER) be ordered with a
high–efficiency MERV-16 rated filter for use when welding stainless steel. The
MFS is designed to meet more stringent local air filtration quality standards suitable for welding stainless steel. Alternatively, the
MFD is a mobile fume extractor with disposable filters. The MFD can also be ordered with high-efficiency filters.
The MFS must be ordered with a high-efficiency filter
A high-efficiency filter cartridge is required in applications such as fabricating or welding stainless steel. The use of a flexible extraction arm is a good method of removing dangerous welding fumes and dust when working on small or medium-sized objects. When the
extraction arm is properly placed while welding it assists in the removal of fine particulates and hexavalent chrome dust before it enters the breathing zone and lands on materials in the shop environment.
Fume extractors for welding stainless steel
Welding stainless requires a fume extractor with a
high–efficiency MERV-16 filter. The following mobile fume extractors can be ordered with this specification:
For workshops or environments where floor space is limited, we also have
stationary fume extractors with high–efficiency MERV-16 filters:
Welding stainless steel produces what gas?
Chromium 6 Cr(VI), or hexavalent chromium is a hazardous form of chromium produced during welding or grinding stainless steel. Oxidized metal produces fumes with hazardous hexavalent chromium. These fumes can be inhaled, swallowed, and are known to penetrate the skin – they are also proven to cause illness and disease.
Risks of metal coatings and hexavalent chromium
Metal coatings make the composition of welding fume more dangerous. Whether welding indoors or outdoors, it is important to use the correct weld fume extraction equipment to capture the fume before it enters the breathing zone. A recent
news release from our Plymovent head office talks of the dangers of hexavalent chromium, highlighting health risks much greater than previously thought.
Ingredients in coatings expose the welder to a variety of compositions and health risks which can lead to physical illness and serious diseases. Hexavalent chromium in welding fumes is not only found in paints and coatings, but also in types of welding fumes that involve welding with chromium metal. Chromium metal is used in many steel alloys to harden the material to make it more resistant to corrosion.
The health impacts of hexavalent chromium in welding fumes include targeting the respiratory system, liver, kidneys, skin, nose, and eyes. It is also known to be a cause of cancer and COPD¹.
Exposure to
hexavalent chromium in welding fumes is primarily associated with welding stainless steel. This can affect professionals in the metalworking industry. Welders, fabricators, and workers directly involved in cutting, grinding, and sanding chromium metal is at risk of the worst effects. Workers involved in construction work, the transportation sector, military, and shipyards could all be impacted as well. Anyone in the workspace can be impacted.
Provide clean air for all in the workplace environment.
Please read our Plymovent article
here to learn more about the dangerous health hazards of exposure to hexavalent chrome. For more information on how to properly place an extraction arm, please read our Plymovent article
here.
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