WELDING FUME EXTRACTION

Welding and processes associated to it produce fumes.  These fumes are present in the form of particulates, vapours and gases, depending on the process being conducted.  Inhalation of welding fumes are proven to cause health problems long term and should be avoided wherever possible.  There are a number of ways to minimise welding fume inhalation including air fed welding masks, face fit masks, adjustment of the welding process or localised exhaust ventilation or LEV.

LEV fume extractors remove air from the work area and filter it to remove contaminants before recirculating the air.  This is where LEV, mobile fume extractors differ to overhead or general ventilation.  Overhead and general extraction systems still allow the fumes from the work area to pass through the breathing zone of operators which does not negate inhalation.  The use of a localised hood and hose system means the user can adjust where the unit vacuums the air and filters it.

Similar to this are the MIG torch extraction systems available, such as the F Tech Fox.  These systems utilise a fume extraction MIG torch where normal welding activities take place whilst an extraction nozzle removes fume direct from the source.  Extraction at the torch is done in such a way that normal shielding gas performance is not affected.  These systems can be beneficial because the extraction always takes place at the torch, negating the need to keep moving a fume extraction hood.

Some LEV mobile fume extractors contain disposable filters designed for periodic replacement whilst others have cleanable or even self cleaning filters.  In workshops experiencing light usage a replaceable filter unit would suffice.  Businesses with prolonged extraction requirements may benefit economically with a cleanable filter filtration system.

It’s also worth noting that some welding fume extraction systems are suitable for extraction of grinding fumes whilst others are not.  This is because the larger molten particles from grinding can enter the filter system and cause fires.  Specifically designed spark arrestors prevent this from happening in welding and grinding systems such as the ProtectoXtract range.  Please make sure you check the machines spec before purchase.  If in doubt, feel free to call or email our sales team.

Information on welding fume legislation and designing suitable systems for your workplace can be found on the governments HSE website.

If you are looking to purchase fume extraction systems in the UK for your place of work, feel free to call and allow us to discuss your requirements.  Our partners are able to supply, commission and service LEV and bespoke ventilation systems.