Overview of Welding Filter Filtration Classes

One major challenge in almost all welding operations is the production of weld fumes that can be very toxic to health once inhaled. This is why welding companies are required to follow strict welding filtration practices to ensure safety in the workplace. The utilization of high-grade steel alloys is mostly chosen as they can be safely welded in conjunction with the use of the right welding filter element. The efficiency of welding filters is typically categorized into one of three welding fume filtration classes. This welding fume filtration class enables the reading of the filter performance and is also widely known as a W-class.

Knowing which kind of welding filter is most suitable depends on the certain type of material being welded and the process of welding used.

The limit for breathable dust in the working environment is at 100 microns. With that said, dust levels under 10 mg per cubic meter already requires the application of a welding filter. Welding companies have to reduce the ultrafine dust particles their processes produce to an acceptable minimum. Otherwise, they would be subject to corresponding penalties.

Effectiveness of Each Class

Since state regulations are becoming stricter when it comes to welding fumes that have toxic substances such as nickel oxide and chromium compounds, welding fume devices and filters belonging to class W3 meet the requirements. They help facilitate air purification levels that are demanded by the authorities. Testing of the W-class filter devices must be done according to the occupational health and safety standards for welding and similar industrial processes. This often involves the utilization of the right welding filter element. The other two classifications of welding filtration are W1, which offers 95% efficiency, and W2, which provides over 98% efficiency. W3 offers the highest filtration efficiency and is often used with high-alloy steel.

When it comes to selecting the right welding filter, make sure you consult with the experts first. Call us at Dynamic Filtration today to get more information on our products!