CFD Analysis and Improvement Proposal for the Fume Extraction System in a Welding Workshop

This research aimed to improve fume extraction in a welding workshop using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis. The study focused on the central extraction hood of this workshop at an educational institution, where welding practices are regularly conducted. A new hood design was proposed to reduce the concentration of gases in the breathing zone. The gas flow was analyzed through simulations to select the best alternative, enhancing ventilation and ensuring safety in confined welding environments. The new design considered variables such as the angle of the hopper, the suction area, and the number of slots. The Taguchi statistical method evaluated three factors at three levels, resulting in nine experimental trials. The analysis revealed that the new design significantly improves smoke extraction at the welding point. The current system generates an absorption velocity of 0.006 m/s, while the proposed system would achieve a velocity of 0.78 m/s, meeting the recommended standard of 0.5 to 1.0 m/s. This validates the selected hood prototype design, demonstrating its effectiveness in enhancing the extraction system.