MIREL- Minimized risk for exposure and release of harmful substances when welding stainless steels
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Swerea KIMAB AB - Swerea KIMAB AB, Kista |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 772 500 |
| Project duration | August 2017 - March 2018 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | The strategic innovation programme for Metallic material |
Purpose and goal
This feasibility study aimed at verify alarming results regarding increased release of hexavalent chromium in a simulated lung environment (phosphate buffered saline, PBS) from the welding fume in MAG welding stainless steels with flux cored filler material. The results regarding hexavalent chromium was verified.
Expected results and effects
The feasibility study confirms alarming results and shows that: The weight percentage Cr(VI) of the total fume did not differ significantly between the solid-, metal cored- and flux cored wires. Released Cr(VI) in PBS however differed between the different types of filler materials. Released Cr(VI) was substantially higher for welding fume from flux cored wires than for fume from solid- or metal cored wires. The toxicity and released Cr(VI) concentration in PBS showed a high degree of correlation.
Planned approach and implementation
In the feasibilitiy study the indutrial companies have performed the welding and fume collection. KTH have analyzed the welding fume and the release of metals, specifically chromium and hexavalent chromium in simulated lung environment. KI have performed toxicity studies on cells exposed to welding fume.