Welding Fume Extraction

The CMAXX is a modular, flexible system with many options for welding fume extraction. There are many types of welding applications. So a dust and fume extraction system for welding must be adaptable. Fortunately, welding shops have options including ambient and source capture systems to meet their needs.

Common processes requiring welding fume extraction include:

Other methods of welding may not produce as much smoke or fumes as more traditional methods. Two examples include magnetic pulse welding and ultrasonic welding,

Welding fumes contain a mix of metal particles and gasses. Unlike many other processes, the fumes are often directly in the welder’s breathing area. Welding fume extraction removes hazardous materials from the area. As a result, welders are protected from exposure.

A source capture system consists of a welding fume extractor that uses hoods, downdraft tables, or fume arms. These are called capture points. Through these, fumes are extracted from each welding station. This is especially important if exposure must be tightly limited.

An ambient system circulates all the air in an area through the filters. Often, this air returns to the area after filtration. The number of times that the air is replaced in an hour depends on two factors: First, the size of the space. Second, the amounts of fumes or dust in the air.

CMAXX dust and fume collector on a welding fume extraction installation

Possible Equipment

Welding fumes may be combustible. Dust testing can establish what types of fire and explosion features are needed to meet OSHA and NFPA standards. Further, metal dust produced by welding may be very combustible. Please see our white paper on combustible dust for more details.

For welding and other metal fume applications, DeltaMAXX cartridge filters provide the necessary efficiency for small particle capture. These filters can capture particles as small as 0.3 microns. In addition, the system may include HEPA after-filters if the fumes contain especially hazardous materials like hexavalent chromium. These secondary filters are an extra barrier against the escape of toxic materials.

Please see the case studies below. These are examples of how Imperial Systems has helped other companies solve their welding fume extraction problems.