Breathe Easy: Fume Extraction Techniques for MIG Torch Welding

Welders need a clean, low fume working environment to keep them healthy, safer, productive and comfortable. Welders during the welding process breathe fume through their mouth and nose and into the smallest branches of the lungs. If welders don’t use any protection, it spreads across the entire workshop and they breathe in the harmful particles. The effective fume extraction is used to reduce fume exposure. Let’s explore fume extraction MIG torch techniques used for maintaining a safe working environment.

Here is some welding fume extraction MIG torch methods specifically designed for MIG torch welding:

1 On Torch Welding Fume Extraction System

This method is also known as on-tool welding fume extraction, which capture fumes at the source when the weld is completed. This is an integrated solution in which the extraction system is built onto the MIG (Metal Insert Gas) welding torch itself. The method is unique solution for MIG welders who use continuous wire welding processes. Welders work continuously without worrying about positioning a fume extractor therefore, there is no loss in productivity.

Pros:

It reduces exposure and directly capture the fumes
It reduces the need for extra ventilation systems.
It improves the air quality immediately during the welding operation.

Cons:

Downside is it’s more expensive due to specialized equipment is used
Its could be bulky, slightly increase the weight of the torch, this will affect manoeuvres.

2 Portable Welding Fume Extractor Systems

These are mobile units, used for welding fume extraction, with a flexible hose and extraction nozzle. Portable unit can be positioned quite near to the welding area to suck up the fumes.

Pros:

Its lightweight, comes with robust carry frame.
Mobility makes it flexible to move around the work area.
These come equipped with HEPA filters to capture fine particles.
Usable for various locations and positions due to its mobility feature.

Cons:

Manually positioning and adjustment is done every welding process.
Lots of movement means lots of work, which can be cumbersome.

3 Fixed Welding Fume Extractor System

Fixed systems are permanently installed by using ductwork and extraction arms to suck up the welding fumes. These are used in heavy industrial environment such as large welding shops. It helps in maintaining clean air quality in the larger facilities at larger scale.

Pros:

Used at heavy industrial workplace.
Powerfully and efficiently captures fume.
Integrated with ventilation system of the building.
Diminishes the need for portable units and reduces clutter.

Cons:

Initial set up is expensive and very high.
Lack of flexibility, once installed cannot be moved.

4 Downdraft Tables Welding Fume Extraction Systems

These systems are workbenches that comes with built-in fume extraction systems. The fumes are pulled down through the table surface away from the welder.

Pros:

Effectively sucks up the welding fumes from the workpiece.
Effective diminishes the airborne articles from entire workplace.

Cons:

Tasks on the table surface can be performed, limited work system.
Costs are high, setup is expensive, need extra space.

5 General Ventilation Systems for Fume Extraction

General ventilation system for welding fume extraction includes exhaust fans and ducts are used to carry away the fumes. Ventilation system create an airflow that the fumes from the welding area.

Pros:

Maintain the overall air quality in the large working welding shops.
Integrated with other extraction methods for improved efficiency.

Cons:

Less operative system to pull the fumes directly at the source.
Need proper design and effective system to remove the fumes from the air.

Conclusion On Breath Easy with Effective Fume Extraction MIG Torch Systems.

We, fume extractor Canada, Translas understand that the safety and health of the welders is the top priority. Welding industry require appropriate extraction method which is highly essential for the welding operations. With proper extraction system, by following practices, welding operations can diminish the risks involved in the exposure to hazardous fumes.