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Metalworking

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Airex Dust Collectors for Metalworking
Airex Cartridge Dust Collectors

METALWORKING

Metalworking processes come with many challenges. By understanding them, you can better identify and control the risks associated with the particles, fumes and gases caused by metal transformation.

Issues Encountered During Our Interventions

Dust

Dust

Particles generated by this application field accumulate quickly and must be addressed efficiently.

Visibility

Visibility

Clear vision may be compromised by the accumulation of particulate matter.

Toxic

Toxic

Exposure to substances released during the processing of a product is harmful to your short and long-term health.

Explosion Hazard

Explosion Hazard

Dust particulate from some materials may be flammable and/or combustible.

Risks Associated With Metalworking: What You Need To Know?

Processes such as the welding, grinding and thermal cutting of metals can put the health of your employees at risk. Spray painting and powder coating metal surfaces can generate potentially hazardous fumes and gases. In some situations, combustible metals come into play. Here are some things to think about:

  • In your plant, what materials are hazardous to the health of workers?
  • Could the gases, dust, molten metals or sparks cause explosions? How do you reduce the risk?
  • Does process automation increase or decrease risk?

Metal Transformation: Protecting Workers’ Health

Cutting operations in metalworking release harmful air particles, fumes and gases. For example, zinc, lead, beryllium, cadmium, manganese, nickel and chromium are listed as potential aggressors by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and CNESST. Hexavalent chromium dust (chromium VI) is also very harmful, affecting the lungs, stomach, liver and several vital organs. This carcinogen is one of the six hazardous substances listed in the European RoHS Directive (2002).

Welding sparks can also cause explosions or fires if dust collection is not adequate. Is process automation a safer solution? Not necessarily. As the rate of production increases, the volume of particles to be captured – and the risks – also keep pace.

As you know, the metalworking industry must contend with the risks associated with the particulate matter emitted during its processes. Using a dust collection expert to validate the safety of your facility is part of the solution. Such an expert can guide you through the standards you need to meet to reduce the risk of explosions, including those of OSHA, CNESST and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The goal is to capture potentially hazardous substances using the right dust collector and protect the breathing zone of workers.

This industry has its own particularities and its own set of risks. There is no single solution, and a rigorous analysis is required when selecting a dust collector. As a general rule, if your activities generate sparks, you will need good source capture to reduce the risk of explosion. A cartridge collector may also be required to capture welding fine particulates and fumes. Several devices and methods are also effective in preventing fires; for example, a wet collector is recommended if you use aluminum or other explosive metals.

It all comes down to context! The best dust collector should meet your needs and save you money. Our experts can suggest some sustainable options for you that are well thought out to minimize repairs and energy consumption. Here’s an overview of what we can offer you:

  • Innovative solutions with an excellent service life, such as our system that manages variable volumes.
  • Built-in spark arrestor solutions upstream of the dust collector.
  • Equipment certified by the NFPA and National Fire Code to prevent incidents.
  • Team of engineers and specialists available for outage and preventative maintenance.