“Made in the USA” is a wonderful slogan to represent the foundation of a solid manufacturing country. However, while manufacturing is underway, we must consider the effects on the employees and the environment. The process of milling, turning, grinding, and drilling will generate oil mist. If not contained, oil mist will take a toll on your employees and the environment. Luckily, there are effective and affordable solutions to the “oil mist” problem. To protect your employees and equipment, invest in a company that specializes in designing and engineering mist elimination filters.
In the metalworking industry, metalworking fluids (MWF) are used to cool and lubricate the machining activity. The metalworking fluids ensure reduced friction between the tool and the workpiece. In addition, they prolong the life of the tools and protect the surfaces and interiors of the machinery from corrosion. However, when droplets of these metalworking fluids are airborne, smoke, smog, and oil mist are produced. Anything smaller than 1μ is considered oil smoke. If proper mist elimination filters are not utilized, oil mist particles remain airborne and spread in the workplace. A simple solution would be to implement proper filtration. Fiber bed filters are used to capture oil mist in the industry.
As if oil mist were not terrible enough on its own, many times it is combined with other toxins, such as minerals and synthetic oils, biocides, and inhibitors. Often, bacteria and contaminants also find their way into the mist. Health effects vary based on the type of MWF, route of exposure, concentration, and length of exposure. Over time, exposure to airborne oil mist can cause several health issues including respiratory infections, tumors, skin diseases, and cancers. Fibered filter can provide removal efficiency greater than 99.9% of sub-micron particles to reduce exposure to oil mist.
Mist eliminators should be implemented to ensure companies are attempting to prevent exposure. Occupational health advocates believe that most occupational exposure to oil mist results from skin contact. Some research shows that up to one million workers in the United States are exposed to hazardous oil mist daily. If you are running a properly designed fiber bed filter, you can ensure that you will capture the particles before your workers are exposed to them.
Again, despite regulations, many workers are still exposed to harmful oil mist as an occupational hazard. Therefore, it is essential to have proper mist elimination filters as part of your preventative filtration process.
Proper oil mist elimination equipment does more than just protect worker health and safety. Oil mist can also damage sensitive electrical equipment and machinery causing unnecessary production downtime as well as pose a great risk for fire. It also safeguards your business from long-term liability and healthcare costs related to workplace contamination.
Effective detection, prevention, and installation of properly designed mist eliminators are truly essential. Kimre B-GON® Mist Eliminators and Fiber Bed Filters are an ideal way to ensure improved indoor air, efficient production, less downtime, and minimize hazardous conditions for workers.
