Eedat Posted October 8, 2019 Share Posted October 8, 2019 Hello, CNC machinist here. I was wondering how dangerous it is to work with this material as the paperwork that came with it states it is 7.4% Lead. Obviously, I'm going to be machining it although it will be constantly getting sprayed down with coolant. I've worked with this material in the past but never knew about the high lead content. Is this a serious risk to my health? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ThomasPowers Posted October 8, 2019 Share Posted October 8, 2019 Not with proper procedures. Coolant spray should take care of inhalation dangers from dust/fine particles. Wash your hands before eating/touching your face, etc---should be doing that already! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
SLAG Posted October 8, 2019 Share Posted October 8, 2019 'Mr. Eedat, Inhaling lead dust is dangerous. The use of a (particulate), dust mask is strongly suggested. Water damping is, also, recommended. But it is not enough. The particles will eventually dry and contaminate all surfaces of the smithy as well as some getting back into the air. A good dust extraction system is also useful. After serious machining a change of clothes is a good idea soon after leaving the shop. That prevents tracking lead into the house and other places. If there has been a lot of dust generated during a heavy machining session. Promptly, taking a shower is also a good idea. Lead is especially dangerous for children, It seriously affects brain and nerve development. (it can cause retardation in serious cases.). So the shop should not be a playground A doctor can look for a 'lead line" in your gums. It denotes lead ingestion and lead in the blood. Also, a simple blood test will detect lead in the bloodstream. (there are medicines that can pull lead out of the bloodstream.) (chelating agents, like EDTA, etc.) I am not suggesting that you should stop. Simple p.p.a. measures should be sufficient to keep you safe, while working with 660 bronze. SLAG. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
BIGGUNDOCTOR Posted October 8, 2019 Share Posted October 8, 2019 If your CNC is in an enclosure you will be fine. The shop I was the tool maker for ran literal tons of leaded bar stock through the screw machines. I would be more concerned with sanding or polishing operations than cutting. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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