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

Authors

  • Sonette du Preez North-West University (NWU) Potchefstroom Campus http://orcid.org/0000-0002-7468-3874
  • Deon Johan de Beer North-West University (NWU) Potchefstroom Campus
  • Johan Lodewykus du Plessis North-West University (NWU) Potchefstroom Campus

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7166/29-4-1975

Keywords:

occupational exposure, particulate matter,

Abstract

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 μm) and respirable (< 4 μm) 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.

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Author Biographies

Sonette du Preez, North-West University (NWU) Potchefstroom Campus

Lecturer: Occupational Hygiene and Health Research Initiative (OHHRI) North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus

Deon Johan de Beer, North-West University (NWU) Potchefstroom Campus

Chief Director: Technology Transfer and Innovation Support, North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus

Johan Lodewykus du Plessis, North-West University (NWU) Potchefstroom Campus

Director: Occupational Hygiene and Health Research Initiative (OHHRI) North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus

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Published

2018-12-10

How to Cite

du Preez, S., de Beer, D. J., & du Plessis, J. L. (2018). TITANIUM POWDERS USED IN POWDER BED FUSION: THEIR RELEVANCE TO RESPIRATORY HEALTH. The South African Journal of Industrial Engineering, 29(4), 94–102. https://doi.org/10.7166/29-4-1975

Issue

Vol. 29 No. 4 (2018)

Section

General Articles

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