Sampling and characterization of metal grinding dusts

For nickel and some of its compounds there is some evidence for a carcinogenic risk when inhaled. Grinding processes of nickel alloys such as Cr-Ni-steels are supposed to be an important source of inhalable nickel containing dusts in the work environment. The aim of our study is to perform a proper characterization of these dusts with respect to their size distribution and their chemical characterization. In the first part of this study special interest is directed to the amount of fine dust produced under various relevant grinding conditions. Samples were taken under laboratory conditions, which allowed us to vary the physical parameters of the grinding process such as for example the cutting speed and the average grit diameter of the abrasive belt.