Abrasive dust: invisible risks in industrial environments

What exactly is abrasive dust?

Abrasive dust is created when surfaces are machined or manually processed. During this process, microscopic particles are sanded loose that spread in the air. The composition varies by material. In metalworking, for example, the dust often contains aluminum, nickel or chromium: metals that can be harmful or even carcinogenic. Woodworking creates organic dust with an allergenic effect. And plastic processing releases polymers, sometimes with chemical additives. Whatever the material, without good extraction, the dust is a health risk.

Why is abrasive dust so dangerous?

The biggest risk is the inhalation of particulate matter. The smallest particles penetrate deep into the lungs and can cause irritation, chronic conditions or even cancer. This risk is particularly high when processing metals such as chromium and nickel — known to be carcinogenic —.

In addition, the air quality throughout the room is deteriorating. In the long run, this leads to respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic bronchitis. Not just for the person at work, but for everyone present. For companies, this means higher absenteeism costs and the risk of legal consequences.

Technical risks of abrasive dust

In addition to health problems, sanding dust also causes technical damage. The fine particles settle in machines, on surfaces and in sensitive components such as sensors or control systems. This leads to faster wear, failures and unexpected downtime. The productivity and accuracy of machines are declining, and maintenance is becoming more expensive.

The risks at a glance:

• Inhalation of particulate matter causes irritation and lung disorders
• Increased cancer risk with metals such as chromium and nickel
• Long-term respiratory damage (COPD, asthma)
• Worse air quality for all employees
• More absenteeism and higher costs for companies
• Faster wear and tear on machines
• Higher maintenance costs
• Legal risks of exceeding limit values

How deep does dust penetrate the lungs?

The penetration of the dust particles depends on the size. PM10 particles reach the upper respiratory tract. The smaller PM2.5, PM1 and ultra-fine particles — released during abrasion — can go deep into the alveoli and cause inflammation there. Some substances even spread throughout the body, with possible effects on the cardiovascular and nervous systems. Reason enough to always extract sanding dust directly at the source.

Typical applications: different material, different risk

Depending on the material, the amount, composition and hazard of sanding dust differs. Each material therefore requires a specific extraction system.

Metalworking

When metal is sanded, a lot of combustible particulate matter is often produced. Extraction systems must therefore be ATEX certified to prevent explosion risks.

Woodworking

When sanding hardwood, softwood or MDF panels, large amounts of particulate matter are released. Hazardous and flammable.

Plastics processing

This is where polymers and chemical particles are created that are difficult to filter. Special filter systems are required to ensure air quality.

Whichever substance is released: Kiekens delivers the extraction technology that suits your application. Tailor-made, quick to deploy, easy to integrate.

The right extraction is not a luxury, but a necessity

Extraction is the most important measure against harmful dust pollution. Professional systems extract the dust where it is created — for example via flexible arms or a workplace housing. This way, the dust has no chance to spread in the room.

Whether it's a mobile solution for small workshops or a stationary system for industrial processes: at Kiekens, you'll always find an appropriate installation. Always focused on air quality, safety and productivity.

Which extraction systems are available?

Systems are often combined. For example, a mobile unit also includes point extraction, and a stationary system often works with a cyclone separator.

Which filter technology is required?

According to DIN EN ISO 16890, filters evaluated in a standardized manner. Important is the right combination of coarse and fine dust filters:

• Pleated filters: economical, suitable for coarse dust, less effective with particulate matter
• HEPA filters: highly effective for ultra-fine particles (e.g. metal dust)
• Electrofilters: good for oily or very fine dust particles, but more maintenance-intensive

Legislation, ATEX and limits

Working with abrasive dust is subject to strict laws and regulations in the Netherlands. The Working Conditions Act and the Working Conditions Decree oblige employers to minimize exposure to hazardous substances - such as particulate matter, wood dust or metal dust. There are limits for the concentration of these substances in the air, and it is legally required to take effective measures to achieve this.

For explosive substances, such as aluminum dust or magnesium dust, is a ATEX certified extraction system required. This European directive (ATEX 114/153) also applies in the Netherlands and sets clear requirements for the design and safety of extraction systems in risky environments.

In addition, specific guidelines and standards apply, such as:

• EN-EN 689 — for measuring and assessing airborne exposure to hazardous substances
• EN ISO 16890 — to classify air filters based on their filter efficiency
• SER Working Conditions Sheets — sectoral guidelines on, among other things, wood dust, welding fumes, plastic processing and more

Kiekens supplies extraction systems that comply with all relevant Dutch and European safety standards. This way, you can be sure that your employees are protected and you comply with the law — without compromise.

Tailored extraction system — not a standard solution

A powerful extraction system requires customization. Factors such as fabric type, working time, work space, dust composition and air volume all influence. Kiekens analyses your processes and provides a fully tailored system with the right hoses, filters and components — tailored to your budget and safety standards.

Maintenance & cost savings

Just like any technical installation, maintenance determines the lifespan. Filters need to be replaced regularly and pipes professionally cleaned. This is the only way to keep the installation powerful and effective.

A well-maintained system saves considerably in the long run:

• Less cleaning of machines and rooms
• Lower maintenance costs
• Fewer dropouts due to health problems
• More job satisfaction and higher productivity

Kiekens — your partner for clean air while sanding

For over 100 years, Kiekens has stood for quality, safety and innovation in industrial extraction technology. Our systems have been proven to be effective, modular and meet the most stringent standards — including ATEX. Together, we will look for the best solution for your situation. Get in touch with us today.