14 17
Molten Slag Slag must be allowed to cool completely in a con-
trolled area before being moved outdoors to prevent ac- cidently exposing slag to moisture, rain or water spray.
15
18 19
20 MODERN CASTING / July 2010
Overhead Sprinkler Systems Overhead sprinkler systems are not recommended in molten metal areas
such as melt furnace and pouring areas. Chief among the safety hazards is a potential steam explosion caused by water from the sprinklers becoming trapped beneath the molten metal.
Aluminum Dross Never spray water on aluminum dross. The reaction between the materials will
16
emit toxic ammonia and explosive gases. Use extinguishing media for a Class D Fire Rating (sand, graphite, salt). Class D fi re extinguishers are specifi cally for fi res that involve combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, potassium and sodium.
Cupola Slag Slag must be broken up/granulized with a spray of water in the slag trough.
Induction & Electric Arc Furnace Splash Molten metal splash can occur any time molten metal is in an induction melting or
holding furnace. The causes include the introduction of foreign material or moisture into the bath and refractory lining failure. The metalcasting facility should designate a hazard zone around induction melting furnaces and mark it with color coding or post signs warning of the hazard. The hazard zone extends from the edge of the induc- tion melting furnace to a distance of 20 ft., or fi ve times the crucible inner diameter (whichever is greater), radially from the center of the furnace. Refer to ASTM 2349 Paragraph 9.2.10 for induction furnace guidelines and ASTM 2349 paragraph 9.3.18 for electric arc furnace guidelines.
Building Maintenance Keep the roof, windows and skylights of the building in good repair
around the furnace, pouring areas and hot metal transfer routes. Small amounts of liquid (water) leaking from the roof could be a problem. Pay special attention to water, snow and ice on inclement days.
21
Butane Lighters These lighters should be banned on the melt deck. If dropped into the molten metal, the liquid in the lighters can cause an explosion. .
Centrifugal Casting & Water Water is an integral part of the centrifugal casting mold cool-
ing process. Caution must be exercised to keep fl oors, fl oor drain pits and surrounding areas as dry as possible.
MC
This article was edited by Sue Thomas, American Foundry Society, and is based on a section from the AFS Health and Safety Guide that will be published in early spring 2011.
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