Wednesday, March 07, 2007

Manganese - Manganism and Welding Fumes

Manganese - Manganism and Welding Fumes

Manganese is an essential trace element that is required in the human body for many enzymatic reactions. While manganese deficiency rarely occurs in humans, manganese toxicity from overexposure to this toxic metal can occur in certain occupational settings - like welding and ironworking - through the inhalation of manganese-containing fumes.

Many welding rods contain manganese, which becomes airborne and breathable during the welding process. If the welder is not protected, the inhaled manganese vapors can travel through the blood stream to the brain. An excess accumulation of manganese in an area of the brain known as the basil ganglia can destroy healthy brain tissue. The result is a serious and often crippling neuro-degenerative disorder known as manganism, or manganese related parkinsonism. This disease is characterized by Parkinson-like symptoms, including:

  • tremors and shaking
  • loss of balance
  • slow and clumsy gait
  • impaired coordination
  • leg cramps
  • muscle rigidity
  • speech disturbances
  • impotency
  • loss of memory and concentration
9175 Welding Fume Extractor, (with Spark Arrestor), Soldering, Chemical Fumes, Odor


pictured here with 5' x 4" diameter articulating arm

Manufactured to provide maximum protection in welding and soldering environments, this Allerair fume extractor removes noxious fumes, chemicals, gases and particles from the air using 40 lbs. of high powered MAC-B™ activated carbon and HEPA filtration. Fume extractors can be used with one 6" specialized hose, or two 4 " hoses and features a specialized spark arrestor for optimal safety. Choose from a number of optional flexible-arm attachments to remove fumes and particles from a targeted area.

The only extractor which provides the utmost in safety and protection while offering serious fume mitigation and a spark arrestor.

Dimensions: 16" x 20 " x 24"
Shipping weight: 160 lbs.

http://www.allerairsolutions.com/welding_fumes_air_cleaner.html