，主要内容是危害及净化措施
Welding Fumes and Its Effects and Purification Measures
Introduction
Welding is a process in which two similar or dissimilar materials are joined together. In this process, heat is applied to transform the materials into the liquid form and then weld them together. Welding is a major industrial activity which is used in the fabrication of the machines, buildings, furniture and automobiles. Unfortunately, the process of welding produces fumes and gases which are hazardous to the health of welders and maintenance personnel.
Types of Fumes and Gases Produced
When welding is performed, a certain amount of air-borne particulates are generated which get suspended in the air as fumes. Welding fumes are created from the smoke which is a result of the burning and melting of the surface of the base material and the filler material. The composition of smoke will vary based upon the nature of base and filler materials. Generally, welding fumes comprise of fumes of zinc, iron, chromium, and nickel etc. In addition to this, various other non-metallic fumes like silicon, sulphur and chlorine oxides can also be generated during welding processes.
Besides gases, welding also emits dangerous ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) radiations which can cause serious health issues. Above all, the most hazardous welding fumes are the ones that contain high concentrations of manganese (Mn) and its compounds. Mn-containing fumes can have an average particle size of <0.006 micrometers, making it highly dangerous to breathe.
Health Effects of Welding Fumes and Gases
Welding fumes contain metallic oxides as well as other compounds which can prove to be hazardous to human health when they are inhaled. Welding fumes can cause a variety of health issues including irritation to eyes, nose and throat, nausea, headaches, dizziness and other respiratory problems. Long term inhalation of welding fumes can cause metal fume fever which is a self-resolving flu-like illness. It can cause a sudden spike in temperature, vomiting, and chills. People exposed to welding fumes, over a long period, are also at a greater risk of developing various kinds of cancers.
Furthermore, welders can suffer from gum and tooth decay due to the fumes containing acidic particles in them. Lastly, welding fumes can also induce cataracts in the welders who are accidently exposed to the UV emissions produced during welding at close proximity.
Measures to Reduce Exposure
In order to minimize the risks associated with welding fumes, welders should take the proper precautionary measures and wear appropriate safety clothing. The following preventive measures should be taken to reduce the exposure to welding fumes and gases:
• Creating effective ventilation systems in the workplace: Adequate ventilation and air- Exchange is necessary to reduce the concentration of fumes and gases in the welding environment.
• Using PPE: Personal Protection Equipment such as dust and fume masks, helmets and face shields should be worn by the welders to protect them from inhaling the fumes and gases. Furthermore, gloves, jackets and pants can also be worn to protect the welders from hot metal and UV radiations.
• Position of the Welder: The welders should ideally position themselves so as to have the least exposure to the fumes and smoke produced.
• Modifying Process Parameters: Utilizing process parameters like current, transfer modes, and voltage can help in minimizing the fumes and gases produced.
• Using Fume Extractors: The use of fume extractors can help in eliminating the fumes and gases produced at the source of the welding process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, welding fumes are poisonous and can cause serious health issues in welders if proper safety measures are not taken. Welders must use protective equipment and always make sure that proper ventilation is provided in the working area. Moreover, the process of welding must also be optimized to reduce the production of hazardous fumes and gases. Above all, the employers must be aware of the safety risks associated with welding processes and create an environment in the workplace which is safe for welders.
