NFPA 660 Updates: Key Requirements for Welding and Grinding on Explosive Dusts

When Welding on Magnesium, Titanium, or Aluminum

• Process-Specific Requirements

  Welding Alone: No explosion vent is required for welding magnesium, titanium, or aluminum alone. Welding these metals generates fumes, not combustible dust, and does not pose an explosion risk.

  Grinding, Cutting, or Abrasive Finishing: If you are grinding, cutting, or using abrasive finishing on these metals, explosion vents are required because these processes generate combustible dust, which can present a significant explosion hazard.

• Why Explosion Vents Are Important

  Explosion vents are designed to prevent pressure buildup within your filtration system in the event of an explosion. This protection is especially important when working with combustible dust created during grinding or cutting metals such as magnesium, titanium, and aluminum.

Understanding Fume Extraction System Requirements Under NFPA 660

NFPA 660 implementation requires specific design considerations for fume extraction systems. Our team of experts incorporates these key elements into every system design:

• System Integration Planning

  Each system is engineered to capture fumes and dust at their point of generation, using optimized hood designs and capture velocities to minimize hazardous material spread. Our designs include all necessary components for seamless integration with facility-wide safety systems, including:

  • Fire suppression system connections
  • Emergency shutdown protocols
  • Safety interlock capabilities

• Expert System Design Features

  Our specialists have incorporated critical safety and performance elements into every design:

  • Application-specific filtration solutions
  • Comprehensive grounding system integration
  • Strategic component placement for optimal performance
  • Advanced spark detection and suppression options
  • Optimized ductwork sizing for maximum extraction efficiency

• Recommended Maintenance Guidelines

  To maintain optimal system performance and NFPA 660 compliance, we recommend:

  • Implementing scheduled system inspections
  • Regular testing of safety components
  • Periodic evaluation of ventilation performance
  • Inspection of explosion prevention features
  • Documentation of all maintenance activities