TITANIUM POWDERS USED IN POWDER BED FUSION: THEIR RELEVANCE TO RESPIRATORY HEALTH

This study aimed to characterise three titanium powders used in powder bed fusion in terms of particle size, shape, and elemental composition for comparison with safety data sheet (SDS) information, and their relevance to additive manufacturing (AM) operators' respiratory health. Thoracic (<...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:South African journal of industrial engineering 2018-12, Vol.29 (4), p.94-102
Main Authors: du Preez, Sonette, de Beer, Deon Johan, du Plessis, Johan Lodewykus
Format: Article
Language:eng ; por
Subjects:
Additive manufacturing
Chemical composition
Engineering, Industrial
Handbooks
Health
Immunology
Indoor air quality
Larynx
Metals
Occupational health
Occupational safety
Operators
Outdoor air quality
Particle size
Powder beds
Rapid prototyping
Raw materials
Titanium
Titanium alloys
Toxicology
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Summary:This study aimed to characterise three titanium powders used in powder bed fusion in terms of particle size, shape, and elemental composition for comparison with safety data sheet (SDS) information, and their relevance to additive manufacturing (AM) operators' respiratory health. Thoracic (< 10 Ųm) and respirable (< 4 Ųm) particles were present in the virgin and used powders. If inhaled, these particles have the potential to cause adverse health effects. Discrepancies in particle size and elemental composition compared with what was declared in the SDSs were found. The SDSs provided insufficient information, which places AM operators' health at risk. Recommendations for promoting AM operator health are provided.
ISSN:2224-7890
1012-277X
2224-7890
DOI:10.7166/29-4-1975