Metal fumes in foundries

Abstract

The metal content of melting and casting fumes was analyzed with X-ray fluorescence, atomic absorption, and mass spectrometric methods. The composition of fumes varied with the kind of alloy, the quality of scrap, and the type of melting process. In addition foundry workers' exposure to metal fumes was evaluated. The measurements of airborne metal concentrations in 10 steel foundries, 15 iron foundries, and 11 copper alloy foundries showed that exposure to lead, copper, and zinc may present a health hazard.