Welding Fume Extraction

With a strengthening of HSE enforcement around all welding fume removal, advice suggests smoke must be extracted at source, wherever practical. To start the process toward becoming a smoke free workplace, book our Welding fume extraction survey .

Selecting the right welding fume extractor for the job

In our view, the effective capture of weld fume is at it's origin. Latest thinking points us towards not recommending any weld fume extraction that isn't IFA W3 compliant. In summary, W3 ensures that units have a high air flow rate, good filter efficiency of 99% or above and an audible/visual low air flow filter alarm. For more advice on read our guide 'Buying Welding Fume Extraction'.

On MIG torch welding fume extraction

Our Foster Works X-300A 'On Torch' Extractor is designed for the on torch capture of welding fume at source by removing metal particles through the welding torch nozzle. It's main features include two stage filtration for maximum protection, HEPA Filtration with activated carbon. Supplied with 3 metre hose & inlet for fume torch.

A highly effective solution, designed to remove welding fume at source, by extracting the welding fume down the MIG welding nozzle without disturbing the shielding gas. With up to 70% of the weld fume being captured by a Biinzel xFUME MIG torch, which has an adjustable nozzle & lightweight power cable, it is the most efficient extraction method on the market.

The Kemper Dusty Evo high vacuum offers an alternative on torch extraction option & hosts a number of key features including W3 filtration, automatic start/stop & contamination free filter removal. It has a smaller filter & motor capacity than the Prem-X, but is still a great option for everyday MIG welding & is delivered with the requisite Binzel xFUME MIG torch.

Binzel's Xfume's range for higher amperage applications, where fume generation is generally higher. The high efficiency range allows for greater air flow & has a more efficient nozzle capture method at the work piece.

Mobile welding fume extraction choices should be influenced by fume levels and prevalence of grinding.

A great entry level budget fume extractor is the Kemper Smartmaster mobile . It is suitable for low level fume, with an approximate main filter change after every 15 reels of MIG wired burned. Available in 110 & 240 volt versions, swivel hood, 2 & 3 metre arm versions. Three filter system includes pre-filter mats, pre-filter & main filter. IFA W3 compliant. Not suitable for grinding dust.

A favourite with maintenance facilities is the ProtectoXtract mobile. It's amazing five part filter system has a gross filter, pre-filter, carbon filter, main filter & spark filter(fitting for grinding applications). This unit comes with on site commissioning & COSHH testing, if you are based in England & Wales and is IFA W3 compliant.

Kemper Profimaster mobile; Industrial fume extractor for everyday use. Suitable for low to medium levels of fume, with an approximate main filter change after every 30 reels of MIG wire consumed. Suitable for high alloy, mild steel fume etc. Available in 110, 240 & 415 volt models with 2, 3 & 4 metre rotatable arm options. It's easy change two filter system, 360 degree capture hood & audible filter alarm make it an industry favourite. IFA W3 compliant. If there is a low level of grinding, an aluminium pre-filter can be fitted.

For more information around on choosing between mobile & 'on torch' extraction, read our article 'Mobile versus On torch Extraction'.

Bench Mounted down draft extraction

ProtectoXtractop down draft bench extractor combines a ProtectoXtract extractor with a bench top(surface area; 1100 x700mm) and takes welding fumes and grinding dust down & away from the operator. The unit is pre-fitted with a Protectospark retrofit filter which enables safe grinding. The ProtectoXtractop is an ideal solution for clients unable to fit arms into an enclosed space & comes with a set of castors, enabling it to be moved easily around the shop.

Fixed Extraction Arm systems

Where it is practical, fixed arm systems ducted or connected directly to a fan have their place and deal with fume capture at source. Extraction arms are supplied in a number of lengths and designs, according to the volume of welding fume to be extracted and the size of the work space. Site surveys are carried out by our Sales engineers, with a view to building a bespoke extraction system to fit your needs.