How to choose the best welding fumes extraction system

Health and safety are not only a right of each employee, but also a value for any Company that, ensuring a safer environment, does not incur penalties, while increasing productivity.

In the field of industrial welding, in order to ensure a safe and compliant working environment, it is essential to install an effective welding fume extraction system

In today's article, we will highlight the importance of the welding fumes extraction system, helping you understand how to choose the one that meets your needs and expectation. Read on!

Why to install a welding fumes extractor?

One of the main reasons for installing a fume extractor system is to ensure the safety of operators, especially when it comes to welding. In this environment, a welding fumes extractor is not just an 'accessory', but a necessity. Every Company is obliged to ensure the safety and health of workers by reducing possible health risks. Exposure to welding fumes can cause serious respiratory problems and other illnesses; therefore, it is essential to have an effective system for extraction and filtration of fumes.

Listed below, the key factors to be considered when choosing a welding fume extractor to meet regulations, and to ensure a healthier and safer working environment.

Solutions

There are different solutions for welding fumes extraction.

• Fixed installations : to remove fumes from the working area and to expel them outside. Fixed installations are often equipped with flexible arms mounted on walls or rails, hoods and filters, or with welding benches equipped with integrated extraction.
• Mobile : Mobile systems purify fumes and expel them outside the building after filtering. Ideal for workplaces with no fixed welding area; they consist of an extraction system, filters and articulated arms that allow the operators to move easily among the different areas.

The size and capacity of the extraction system

Choosing the right size and capacity of a welding fumes extractor is crucial to ensure effective air purification.

Criteria to be considered:

• Volume of fumes generated: indicates the need for a certain capacity of the aspirator. For example, intensive welding operations require stationary rather than mobile systems.
• Extension of the working area: larger working areas may require mobile extraction systems.
• Number of welding points: the presence of several welders requires an extraction system with a higher overall capacity.
• Duration of welding operations: prolonged operations may require systems with self-cleaning filters.
• Type of contaminants: different types of fumes may require specific filters e.g. welding on stainless steel.
• Filter efficiency: the quality of filters is crucial for the effective capture of particles and the quality of the filtered air.

The frequency of maintenance

Maintenance of the fume extractor systems depends on the model, use and type of contaminants. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions and monitor the performance indicators. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and filter replacement, ensures optimal operation and worker safety.

Current regulations

Local and international regulations have a significant impact on the management of welding fumes, setting standards for safety and health in the workplace. These regulations aim to minimise risks health to workers by imposing requirements for the installation and maintenance of adequate ventilation and extraction systems. Before purchasing a welding fume extraction system, it is essential to find out about the relevant regulations and consider specialist advice to ensure they are adopting best practice and providing a safe and healthy working environment.

Long-term costs

The purchase of a fume extractor system involves initial installation, maintenance and operation costs. By selecting high energy-efficient models and ensuring regular maintenance, long-term costs can be reduced. In addition, a working environment with clean air improves the productivity and the well-being of employees, reducing injuries and illnesses. Investing in these systems is therefore not only an ethical and legal obligation, but also a business strategy to increase efficiency and productivity.

Investing in an adequate and well-maintained welding fume extraction systems is a crucial step for any Company aiming for a sustainable, safe and productive future, focusing on the health and well-being of its employees.

WORKY provides a wide range of welding fumes extractors to suit every individual need.

Our technology solutions are in line with Industry 4.0 standards and regulations, enabling companies that decide to implement them to take advantage of all the tax benefits.

Whether you are looking for a mobile or stationary fume extraction system, our experts are available to create a customised, tailor-made project: book a free, no-obligation consultation to discover the most suitable solutions for your company's needs!