The Importance of Smoke Extractors

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Smoke extractors are essential in the welding workplace to protect welders and other people from welding fumes. All metals produce harmful gasses, some even cause deadly conditions. Smoke extractors are designed to trap these fumes and gasses and prevent them from spreading to the welders breathing zone, clean air is then recycled back into the air. Smoke extractors also prevent failure to meet Occupational Safety and Health Administration welding ventilation standards.

Smoke Extractor Options

Red-D-Arc offers two smoke extractors, SE1400 and SE1602W. The SE1400 Welding Fume Extractor includes a Snorvac 10’ fume extractor snorkel arm which captures fumes 12-20″ from the source within an area of 20″ diameter. The arm can be rotated 360 degrees and the unit rolls on wheels making a versatile and flexible filtration unit that can be moved between work stations. The SE1602W Welding Fume Extractor is lightweight, stainless steel enclosed and suitcase-size making it easily portable. It includes two suction levels while two hoses are available to fit your needs. Both models provide a high volume and high degree of filtration- up to 99.9% efficiency. Washable and reusable or disposable filters are available.

Dangerous Fumes Encountered in the Welding Process

The welding process involves various types of hazardous fumes that pose significant risks to human health. The most common hazardous fumes encountered during welding include metal oxide fumes (such as zinc, lead, and chromium), nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, ozone, and various volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These fumes are formed when the intense heat from welding causes the metal to vaporize and react with the surrounding atmosphere. When inhaled, these fumes can lead to a range of health issues. Metal fumes can cause metal fume fever, which exhibits flu-like symptoms, while nitrogen oxides and ozone irritate the respiratory system and can worsen existing lung conditions. Carbon monoxide is highly toxic, leading to oxygen deprivation, dizziness, and in severe cases, unconsciousness or death. Prolonged exposure to these hazardous fumes can result in chronic respiratory diseases, neurological disorders, and other severe health complications, making proper ventilation and respiratory protection crucial for welders and those in close proximity to welding operations.

Red-D-Arc rents both portable smoke extractors and larger welding fume extractors suitable for fabrication shops.

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