Welding Enclosures: Uses, Features, and Benefits
If you’ve got welders working out in the open, then chances are your employees are skipping over sparks and breathing in smoke they probably shouldn’t be. Welding enclosures are an efficient way to contain this mess, in addition to making your space quieter, more organized, and more focused. In this article, we’ll cover what a welding enclosure is, some of their benefits, uses, and more.
What Is a Welding Enclosure?
A welding enclosure is a physical barrier or structure that surrounds an area for welding. Its main goal is to contain sparks, UV radiation (if using lasers), fumes, and excessive noise from escaping into the rest of the warehouse or factory. Welding enclosures can vary quite a bit in their appearance; some are rigid and more or less permanent, while others have merely vinyl curtains.
Given the nature of the work being done inside, welding enclosures are often built with fire-resistant materials. Steel frames and polycarbonate windows are also common parts. They can be used indoors or outdoors, and what they do is essentially create a safer working environment.
What Are Some of the Benefits of Using Welding Enclosures?
As we touched on already, welding enclosures are mostly made to protect the surroundings from welding hazards. Bright UV light, flying sparks, and toxic fumes can harm the health of workers, and the noise can also be distracting. If welding is kept enclosed, it can also reduce the risk of fires.
Achieving compliance is another obvious benefit. Welding safety is regulated by agencies like OSHA and the NFPA, and special enclosures can help your business meet these standards.
Industries that Use Welding Enclosures
Welding enclosures are used across many industries, including:
- Automotive
- Aerospace and defense
- Heavy equipment
- Shipbuilding
- Oil and gas
A Few Common Features of Welding Enclosures
Welding enclosures can come with many different features. While each one can be customized, there are a few common features often seen:
- Wheels/Casters/Mobility: Modular frames or caster-mounted enclosures can help you move it to different areas or job sites.
- Ventilation: Exhaust vents and fans can help remove toxic fumes from the enclosure.
- Fire Resistance: Flame-retardant curtains or rigid modular panels (made from non-combustible materials) can help you contain sparks and heat.
- Special Windows: Clear or tinted polycarbonate windows (or similar materials) can help you see inside while blocking UV light.
- Power and Lighting: Each can come pre-wired with LED lighting, switches, and outlets.
The Bottom Line
In short, welding enclosures help contain the many hazards of welding, including sparks, smoke, and noise. Essentially, they help protect workers, make your shop compliant with safety standards, and keep your space organized. If welding is a part of your daily operations, then an enclosure should be too.
Interested in setting up welding enclosures at your shop or warehouse? Reach out to the experts at MachineEnclosure.com to get a quote on new structures.
FAQs About Welding Enclosures
1. Is it difficult to install a welding enclosure in a place with limited floor space?
With modular technology, installing a welding enclosure in a tight space is not as difficult as it sounds. Since panels are often prefabricated, they can be transported in through normal doors and tight spaces one at a time.
2. Can welding enclosures be used outdoors? Are they weatherproof?
Yes, they can be used outdoors and can be designed to hold up well in various weather conditions. Outdoor enclosures may need to use heavier framing and tougher materials in general, but it’s doable.
3. How do I know what size enclosure I need?
You can begin by measuring the area you’ll be welding in, then and then add space for the welder, tools, etc. At MachineEnclosure.com, we can work with you to figure out the right dimensions for your enclosure.
