A lasers operation process is achieved by directing the output of a high-powered laser through optics. This laser beam will melt or burn the material in which it is directed at. Lasers have various capabilities when it comes to precision, materials, and type of cut. While lasers remain one of the most beneficial machines for precision and, sometimes, time efficiency, understanding the fumes these machines emit is more beneficial than the machine itself.
The Fumes Produced from Laser Cutting
The beginning of the laser process has evolved overtime. This evolution has resulted in individuals relying on computer-aided assistance, suggesting that the fumes they are exposed to are not a threat – this is a misconception. While workers are told to protect their skin and eyes, the atmosphere around them should be protected as well.
The atmosphere produced is a result of this high-powered laser process. High temperatures in a space result in the expansion of the surrounding air. Upon a laser beam contacting these materials, gas will be formed. Hidden in these gasses lie dangerous particles released with the expansion of gas.
These dangerous particles range depending on the types of materials being lasered. The following are a list of materials and the fume emissions they produce:
- Kevlar – Respirable dust
- Polycarbonate – Respirable dust and Cresol
- Rubber – Respirable dust and 1,3-Butadiene
- Mild Steel – Iron oxide, NO, NO2, CO
- Stainless Steel – Nickle, Chromium
- Nimonics – Cobalt, Chromium, Nickle
How Fume Extractors Combat Hazardous Particles
Fume extraction systems are the perfect resource for combatting against these hazardous particles. Industrial Vacuums fume extraction systems utilize a fan, pulling in fumes and particulates through a filtration system. This filtration system rids the hazardous air of these fumes/particulates and releases filtered air back into your facility. It is important to note that laser cutting is not the only industry that fume extractors reside in. Fume extraction systems can be found in any industrial facility performing welding, sanding, grinding, spraying, powder filling, and various chemical applications.
We, at Industrial Vacuum want you to protect your workers, and workers, we want you to protect yourselves. If any of these fume emission industrial facilities applies to you, or your workers, contact us today to purchase your fume extraction system.