SAFETY PRECAUTIONS and PRODUCT HAZARDS

GRINDING & FINISHING CARBIDES
During grinding operations carbide tools may produce dust of potentially hazardous ingredients such as cobalt and nickel. Care must be taken to prevent these ingredients from being inhaled, swallowed, or coming in contact with the eyes and skin. Even though it is reported that only a small percentage of individuals are susceptible to pulmonary problems resulting from exposure to these ingredients, we list the following preventive measures.

1. RESPIRATORY PROTECTION
   Use an approved respirator for any airborne dust concentrates.
2. VENTILATION
   Use a local exhaust system that complies to existing government regulations. If such equipment is not available, use respirator as mentioned above.
3. PROTECTIVE GLOVES
   Protective gloves or barrier creams are recommended when contact with dust or mist is likely.
4. EYE PROTECTION
   Safety glasses with side shields or goggles are recommended.

In addition to the above - it is imperative the waste material be properly treated and disposed of in accordance with federal, state and local government regulations.

MACHINING WITH CARBIDES
The Criterion Product Line consists mainly of boring tools that work on the inside of a hole. This greatly reduces the element of danger associated with turning tools or milling cutters. We do, however, suggest the following conditions be considered when carbide is used.

1. Burns or physical injury might result from high temperature chips coming off the workpiece.
2. Insert size and shape must be adequate for work performed.
3. Avoid continuous chips that could become entangled in tool or work piece.
4. Because of high temperature and sharp edges, chips should not be removed by hand.
5. Air hoses should not be used to blow chips from the machine.
6. To avoid tool chatter and possible breakage, tool over-hang should be held to a minimum.
7. Extreme care must be taken to ensure both the tool and the work piece is firmly secured
8. Cutting fluids should be kept clean to avoid the possibility of particles being carried across the work piece.
9. The high temperature generated during a cut could ignite the cutting fluids. This can be avoided by the proper selection of coolants and the used of sharp, free cutting tools.
10. Avoid overloading tungsten carbide tools. Excessive pressure could result in fractures.
11. Extra care and preparation must be made when working with materials such as aluminum, magnesium, uranium and titanium. They are all a potential fire hazard.

Although Criterion Machine Works has attempted, herein, to provide current and accurate information based on information received from its carbide suppliers, Criterion makes no representation regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information an assumes no liability for any loss, damage, or injury of any kind resulting or arising out of the use, or reliance on the information furnished them. The information on this page applies only to work place exposure during manufacturing and grinding operations and is not designed for the population at large. Any generalization beyond occupational exposure should not be made.