In the field of industrial manufacturing, laser welding is favored by industrial business owners because of its high efficiency, speed, and new environmentally friendly method. Its main application area is in the metal processing industry, but during the use of laser welding, safety is something that everyone needs to focus on.
Now this article will tell you some of the most complete guides on laser welding safety, I hope it will be helpful to you.
Hazards of Laser Welding
Hazards of laser radiation:
Eye damage: Laser radiation can directly damage the retina, causing serious consequences such as blurred vision and permanent blindness. Even short exposure can cause eye burns.
Skin damage: Laser radiation can cause skin burns, redness, pigmentation, etc. Long-term exposure may cause skin cancer.
A study revealed that laser welding workers who did not wear protective glasses experienced symptoms of corneal damage and vision loss within a short period of time.
Hazards of high voltage electricity:
Risk of electric shock: Laser welding equipment usually requires a high voltage power supply. Once exposed wires or equipment are touched, electric shock accidents are very likely to occur.
A maintenance worker was electrocuted to death due to careless operation while repairing laser welding equipment.
What Are the Laser Welding Safety Requirements?
Personal Eye and Skin Protective Equipment:
- Laser welding safety glasses (laser protective glasses): Choose appropriate protective glasses according to the laser wavelength and power to ensure that they can effectively block laser radiation.
Protective clothing: Choose protective clothing that is resistant to high temperature, wear-resistant and breathable to protect the skin from laser radiation and high temperature burns. - Respiratory protection: When harmful gases are generated during welding, a gas mask or air respirator should be worn.
Equipment protection:
- Laser protective cover: Install a laser protective cover to prevent laser beam scattering and protect surrounding personnel.
- Emergency stop device: Set an emergency stop button to quickly cut off the power supply in an emergency.
- Interlocking device: When the protective cover is opened, the laser automatically stops working.
Umweltschutz:
- Ventilation system: Ensure that the workplace is well ventilated and harmful gases and smoke are discharged in time.
- Firefighting facilities: Equipped with fire extinguishers and other firefighting facilities to prevent fires.
Laser Welding Safety Regulations and Standards
National standards: my country has issued a number of national standards on laser safety, such as the “Laser Radiation Safety Management Regulations”.
Industry standards: The laser welding industry also has corresponding safety standards, which stipulate the requirements for the design, manufacture, installation and use of laser welding equipment.
International standards: The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has issued a number of international standards on laser safety, which provide references for laser safety regulations in various countries.
Abschluss
Laser welding is an efficient processing technology, but safety always comes first. Only by strictly abiding by the safety operating procedures and taking comprehensive protective measures can the risk of accidents be minimized. As laser welding practitioners, we have the responsibility and obligation to be responsible for our own safety and the safety of others. Let us work together to create a safe, healthy and harmonious laser welding working environment.
FAQs
What are the most common laser welding injuries?
Eye injuries, such as burns and retinal damage, are among the most common. Skin burns and respiratory issues are also potential concerns.
How do I choose the right laser safety glasses?
Select laser safety glasses with the appropriate optical density (OD) to block the specific wavelength of the laser being used. Consult with a laser safety expert for guidance.
What are the signs of laser eye injury?
Blurred vision, eye pain, sensitivity to light, and the sensation of foreign objects in the eye are common signs. Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect a laser eye injury.
What are the fire hazards associated with laser welding?
Combustible materials in the work area can ignite if exposed to the laser beam or sparks.
How can I prevent laser welding accidents?
Adhere to all safety protocols, use appropriate personal protective equipment, and ensure proper equipment maintenance.