Design and Computational Fluid Dynamics Analysis of a Fume Extraction System for a Welding Company in Guyana
Basheer Khan *
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of Guyana, Turkeyen Campus, Guyana.
Shanomae Eastman
Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of Guyana, Turkeyen Campus, Guyana.
Abdu Yearwood
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of Guyana, Turkeyen Campus, Guyana.
Safrawz Sharief
Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of Guyana, Turkeyen Campus, Guyana.
Shion Norton
Department of Architecture, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of Guyana, Turkeyen Campus, Guyana.
Colin Quintyn
Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of Guyana,
Stephen Liu
Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of Guyana,
Shawn Jagnandan
Department of Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Guyana, Turkeyen Campus, Guyana.
Antalov Jagnandan
Department of Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Guyana, Turkeyen Campus, Guyana.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The arc welding operation results in harmful fumes being emitted where welders are exposed to dangerous metallic gases and fumes for 6 to 8 hours daily at INFAB welding company in Guyana. This paper presents a design of a fume extraction system, the design incorporates workspace dimensions, volume calculations, duct materials required, framework materials, airflow requirements, and fan selection, guided by a target of 6 air changes per hour (ACH). In addition, the calculated required airflow rate of 58,500 ft³/h ensures the selection of appropriate fans. The design aims to create a safe and healthy welding area for the employees by removing harmful fumes. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were employed to analyse velocity and pressure distribution, offering valuable insights into airflow patterns and pressure variations.
Keywords: Welding fumes, CFD, ACH, transition DUCT