The Effects Of Virgin And Recycled PA12 Powders In SLS Processes On Occupational Exposures

Muhamad Damanhuri, Amir Abdullah and Mustafa, Mohd Syafiq Syazwan and Hariri, Azian and Ab Ghani, Sharin and Herawan, Safarudin Ghazali and Paiman, Nuur Azreeb (2021) The Effects Of Virgin And Recycled PA12 Powders In SLS Processes On Occupational Exposures. International Journal of Environmental Science and Development, 12 (11). pp. 339-345. ISSN 2010-0264

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Abstract

Particulate matter and ultrafine particles are emitted during the pre-processing and post-processing activities of selective laser sintering (SLS) processes, which is major concern to operators exposed to the powders. This study aims to determine the occupational exposure (in terms of the total particle concentration and respirable particulate concentration) during the pre-processing and post-processing activities of SLS processes using virgin and recycled polyamide 12 (PA12) powders. Personal air sampling was performed for each activity according to the NIOSH 0500 and NIOSH 0600 methods. Based on the results, both powders were uniform spheres with a particle size of 40–60 µm. The total particulate concentration was most significant during the following pre-processing activities: 1) pouring powder into the mixing machine and 2) transferring the powder to the SLS AM machine. The total particulate concentration and respirable particulate concentration were slightly higher for the virgin powder for these activities. In conclusion, the virgin and recycled PA12 powders were both inhalable and respirable, which poses serious health hazards to the SLS AM operators. Hence, it is essential for operators to use suitable personal protective equipment (including respirators) and the working practices need to be improved by automating some activities prevent manual powder handling.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Occupational exposure, Selective laser sintering, Powder handling, Polyamide 12
Divisions:	Faculty of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering Technology
Depositing User:	Sabariah Ismail
Date Deposited:	28 Feb 2022 11:26
Last Modified:	28 Feb 2022 11:26
URI:	http://eprints.utem.edu.my/id/eprint/25508
Statistic Details:	View Download Statistic

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