The Different Kinds Of Fumes In Welding

It’s important to keep harmful fumes and gasses away from humans in industrial areas and other settings. Some of the dangerous health hazards fumes can cause include cancer, respiratory problems, and more.

That being said, in this post, let’s explore some of the different types of fumes that come from welding. And always install fume extraction systems in any environment with toxic fumes — it’s one of the best ways to protect you and your workers from airborne toxins.

Welding Fume Types

Here are the most common kinds of welding fumes:

1. Chromium

Hexavalent chromium is a toxic fume that affects welders every single year. Chromium is converted to the hexavalent form when working with high alloy and stainless steel materials that are then mixed together by welders.

Chromium is a carcinogen that develops certain cancers, particularly in the lungs. If you have a strained cough, persistent bloody noses, or nasal perforation, these could be signs that you’re being affected by chromium. It’s incredibly important to have the right fume extraction to avoid exposure to this substance.

2. Iron Oxides

These come from welded iron or welded steel. They’re very common in work environments.

One of the things that make iron oxides so dangerous is that they can cause siderosis. This is also referred to as welder’s lung, it’s a type of lung disease that worsens over time. Siderosis can include lung irritation, nasal irritation, and other symptoms. Welders who have siderosis may also have silicosis.

The good news is that if iron oxide exposure is decreased, then you can eventually clear the symptoms of this disease. That’s why it’s crucial to have fume collectors in the work area to remove these toxins.

3. Fume Fever

Metal fume fever, or MFF, is when a toxic fume cluster is present in a shop or work area. This is particularly true with welded galvanized steel. Some of the symptoms include headaches, joint pains, aches, chills, dizziness, and respiratory strain.

If not treated, or if the gasses are not removed, these symptoms can worsen. Particularly, manganese, zinc, copper, and beryllium are the most dangerous fumes that cause this condition.

Get Fume Extraction Today

If you’re looking for a welding fume extractor, then IP Systems can help. Our fume extraction units are state-of-the-art.

Depending on your gas or fume elimination needs, we provide a wide range of systems that conveniently and efficiently keep your workspace clean and safe. Let’s create a better tomorrow. Just call today.