How To Maintain The Plasma Fumes, Gases & Dust?
Plasma cutting is a modern process of metal cutting extensively used to cut aluminium, stainless steel, copper, etc. This process is accurate, accurate as well as economical. However, during the operation, plasma cutters produce fumes & dust that are injurious to health & the environment. In this blog, we are going to discuss how to control the fumes & dust effectively.
Why are plasma dust, fumes & gases dangerous?
During plasma cutting, a high amount of dust, fumes & gases is generated. According to the professionals, the inadequately controlled plasma cutters can pose several risks including fume inhalation, gas inhalation, gas combustion, etc. Common health problems caused by plasma cutting include throat irritation, headaches, nausea, dizziness, etc. Apart from that, prolonged exposure to plasma fumes & dust may cause severe health issues like cancers & lung damage.
How to control plasma cutting?
According to professionals, plasma cutting can be controlled by local exhaust ventilation or LEV. It must be installed where the risk of plasma cutting has been detected. LEV is very essential for hand-held plasma cutting & low powered mechanised plasma cutting systems. Nowadays, mechanised plasma cutting systems are widely available in the markets. However, hand-held plasma cutting machines are still used in many workshops. Requirements for LEV may depend on the particular type of plasma cutter being carried out:
Handheld plasma cutters: The handheld plasma cutters mainly contain a power source & torch. They are operated manually & generally used in vehicle repairs & fabrication. The local exhaust ventilation must be installed for preventing the inhalation of plasma fumes & dust that are produced during operation. These systems generally need high air volumes to control plasma fumes & plasma dust.
Mechanised plasma cutters: As compared to handheld plasma cutters, mechanised plasma cutting systems are larger & complex. Being an automated machine, mechanised cutters always offer more consistent & accurate cuts. The LEC is mainly configured into the cutting grid or bed of the mechanised plasma cutter.
How to maintain LEV?
Local exhaust ventilation or LEV should be checked and maintained by the professionals for at least 12 to 14 months to keep it functional and efficient. Proper inspection & maintenance is essential to identify potential leaks, damage as well as filter blockage in the LEV. Apart from that, the extraction rate of LEV should also be tested for at least 6 months according to commission reports & LEV design standards.
Local exhaust ventilation is essential to control the emission of plasma fumes. However, for ensuring efficient performance, plasma cutting LEVs should be maintained on a regular basis.
