In the world of metalworking and construction, welding is an essential technique. Whether it's joining metal parts in the automotive industry or creating complex metal structures for buildings, welding plays a crucial role. However, like any technique that generates heat and smoke, there are health and safety risks associated with welding. One of the most effective ways to minimize these risks is by using welding fume extraction systems. In this blog, we will delve deeper into what welding fume extraction is, why it is important, and how it contributes to a safe working environment.
What is welding fume extraction?
Welding fume extraction is a technology designed to capture and remove welding fumes and vapors released during welding before they can spread into the surrounding air. Welding fumes consist of particles of molten metal, oxides, and other contaminants released during welding. This smoke can contain harmful substances such as heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, and gases like ozone and nitrogen dioxide.
Why is welding fume extraction important?
Inhaling welding fumes and vapors can cause serious health problems, ranging from irritation of the respiratory tract and eyes to more serious conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and even long-term lung cancer. Workers who are regularly exposed to welding fumes are at an increased risk of these health problems. Therefore, it is essential to capture welding fumes at the source before they can spread through the air and reach workers.
Benefits of good welding fume extraction
- Health and well-being: The primary benefit of welding fume extraction is protecting the health of workers. By capturing harmful fumes and particles, exposure to potentially dangerous substances is significantly reduced.
- Increased productivity: A healthy and safe work environment often leads to more satisfied employees and higher productivity.
- Quality of work: Welding fumes and vapors can affect the quality of the welding work. Contaminants in the smoke can result in defects in the welds, which in turn affects the overall quality of the product. By extracting welding fumes, the likelihood of such defects is reduced.
What does welding fume extraction consist of?
Mobile welding fume extraction
Mobile welding fume extraction systems are portable units specifically designed to extract welding fumes and vapors at various locations within a workshop. These systems usually consist of an extraction fan, filter system, and sometimes a flexible extraction arm. They can easily be moved to the location where welding takes place. This mobility makes them ideal for situations where welding is performed at different locations within a factory or workshop.
Filters for mobile extraction
Filters are an essential part of mobile welding fume extraction systems. They play a crucial role in cleaning the extracted air before it is reintroduced into the environment. There are different types of filters that can be used in these systems:
- Pre-filters: these capture larger particles and sparks, extending the life of the main filter.
- Main filters: these are usually HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filters that can capture and retain microscopic particles, including harmful substances in welding fumes.
- Activated carbon filters: these filters are designed to absorb gases and vapors such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Extraction arms
Extraction arms, also called welding fume extraction arms, are flexible and adjustable arms attached to the extraction system. They are positioned above the welding work to extract welding fumes and vapors directly at the source. These arms are designed to create optimal airflow, effectively capturing and removing the smoke. Extraction arms come in different lengths and can be rotated 360 degrees, making them suitable for various welding conditions.
The Interfilter range of welding fume extractors
Dufil Mini welding fume extraction
The Dufil Mini is a mobile welding fume extraction unit specifically for light smoke and dust applications. The unit takes up little space and is therefore suitable for any workshop. More importantly, it helps create a healthier working environment.
Tofil Pulse welding fume extraction
The Tofil Pulse is a self-cleaning mobile welding fume extraction unit specifically for medium to heavy smoke and dust applications. The mobile unit is suitable for use in the workshop and also contributes to a healthier working environment.
Tofil Mono welding fume extraction
The Tofil Mono is a mobile welding fume extraction unit specifically for light to medium smoke and dust applications. The unit is compact and mobile, making it suitable for use in the workshop and contributing to a healthier working environment.
Tofil Pro welding fume extraction
The Tofil Pro is a mobile welding fume extraction unit specifically for medium to heavy smoke and dust applications. The unit is compact and mobile, making it suitable for use in the workshop and contributing to a healthier working environment.
More information about mobile welding fume extraction?
For more information, you can contact one of our product specialists, Ruben van Sliedregt.
Do you want to place an order directly? You can click on a specific category where you will see the range and corresponding prices.