The safety concerns of tungsten include fire hazards and toxicity. Tungsten in powder form is flammable and may ignite spontaneously in air. In the event of a fire, poisonous fumes, including Tungsten Trioxide, are produced. Therefore, it is important to use dry chemical or CO2 extinguishers to combat tungsten fires. Additionally, employees who are expected to fight fires involving tungsten must be trained and equipped according to OSHA regulations.
Another safety concern is the susceptibility of tungsten to embrittlement, mechanical, and thermal shock. Tungsten heating elements should not be exposed to air while at elevated temperatures, as the material oxidizes and becomes brittle. It is recommended to use a ramping temperature control system to limit power during cold start-up conditions and prevent overheating-induced embrittlement.
Tungsten is also sensitive to changes in emissivity and can become brittle when exposed to oxygen or water vapor. It is generally resistant to corrosion below 60% relative humidity. Therefore, proper handling and storage conditions are necessary to maintain the integrity of tungsten materials.
In summary, the safety concerns of tungsten include fire hazards, toxicity of fumes produced during fires, susceptibility to embrittlement and thermal shock, and sensitivity to changes in emissivity and exposure to oxygen or water vapor. Proper training, equipment, and maintenance are essential to ensure safety when working with tungsten.
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