Laser Fume Extraction | Air Impurities Removal Systems, Inc.

Since 1965, laser cutting has been utilized by numerous industries to cut materials, ranging from diamonds to wood. As the application continues to be used for many industrial purposes, it’s also growing in popularity in schools, small businesses, and even among hobbyists.

Laser cutting allows for precise measurements and for users to get the exact dimensions they want. But the process can also be hazardous to an individual’s health because of the harmful fumes emitted. It’s made even more dangerous if workspaces don’t have the necessary air filtration systems in place.

What is Laser Cutting?

According to Cut Laser Cut, laser cutting involves the use of computer-aided design to help with the cutting process for precision. The process evolved after it was first used to cut diamonds.

In the early 1970s, CO2 lasers were introduced that made it easier to cut materials that were not metal, such as fabrics. Since then, three different types of lasers have become common:

Fiber lasers
CO2 lasers
Nd and Nd-YAG

CO2 lasers are the most popular type because of the versatility it provides. These machines can cut or engrave steel, titanium, stainless steel, wood, plastic, and much more. Trotec, another laser cutting operator, explained how CO2 cutting machines incorporate a carbon dioxide gas mixture.

Laser-cutting machines are classified by the American National Standards Institute, with most being designated as a Class 1 laser. These machines are not overly hazardous because they don’t emit high levels of energy. However, Class 3B or 4 lasers are the opposite, as these machines are more powerful and therefore more harmful.

Individuals operating the machinery have to protect their skin and eyes, but they can’t forget about the atmosphere.

Laser Fumes

According to Carnegie Mellon University, laser beams are hazardous during the cutting or engraving process because Laser-Generated Air Contaminants are released. Harmful emissions are typically associated with Class 3B or 4 lasers. Essentially, chemical vapors, aerosols, or smoke can be emitted when a laser beam is interacting with various materials.

The Board of Laser Safety explained how, during the cutting process, high temperatures cause the surrounding air to expand. Once materials are being treated by the laser beam, they’ll emit gases that rapidly expand and release dangerous particles.

Carnegie Mellon noted that the particles released depend on the type of material being drilled, cut, or engraved. The following is a list of some materials and the associated emissions, as highlighted by The Board of Laser Safety:

Kevlar: Respirable dust
Polycarbonate: Respirable dust and Cresol
Rubber: Respirable dust and 1,3-Butadiene
Mild steel: Iron oxide, NO, NO2, CO
Stainless steel: Nickel, Chromium
Nimonics: Cobalt, Chromium, Nickel

Because of these toxic fumes, worksites need to ensure personal space and larger areas follow ventilation requirements and are equipped with the appropriate filtration and laser fume extraction systems. Even school administration and building managers have to ensure students are protected at all times.

Laser Fume Extraction and Air Filtration

Buildings, where laser cutting takes place, will likely need to incorporate a few different filtration and ventilation options in order to catch harmful fumes and air particles.

For filtration systems, multiple filters will be needed and changed out whenever suitable. Two types of filters will come in handy: charcoal and HEPA.

Charcoal filters, which utilize the chemical absorption method, are useful because they are good for filtering out vapors and chemical gases. However, in order to contain all harmful substances, HEPA filters will also need to be used. By taking advantage of HEPA filters, metal and dust fumes will also be caught. With the two types of filters working in tandem, emissions from all types of materials are likely to be caught.

But filters aren’t the only answer. HVAC exhaust systems will also be needed to remove contaminants. Additionally, laser fume extraction can also be used in smaller spaces, such as classrooms or small businesses.

Independent artists might find a laser fume extraction system even more beneficial because they can still filter out harmful particles without needing to order an extensive HVAC system. Plus, they’re portable and can be easily moved.

Businesses of all sizes, schools, and even smaller artists specializing in laser cutting have to protect themselves from the harmful particles and fumes emitted from the laser cutting process. HVAC systems and filters are must-haves.

With the help of Air Impurities Removal Systems, everyone can ensure they have the necessary air filtration, laser fume extraction systems, and more in place.