Overview
ISO 17652-4:2003 - "Welding - Test for shop primers in relation to welding and allied processes - Part 4: Emission of fumes and gases" specifies a laboratory method and classification for shop primers (pre‑coatings) based on their influence on the emission of fumes and gases during welding. The standard helps quantify incremental particulate and gaseous emissions caused by primers so that safety professionals, paint manufacturers and fabricators can assess respiratory and environmental impacts.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope: Classification of shop primers according to their effect on fume and gas emissions during welding.
- Test specimens: Six coated and six reference (abrasive‑cleaned) steel plates (S275, 10 × 100 × 500 mm) prepared to Sa 2½; coating thickness per manufacturer recommendations.
- Welding method: MAG welding (ISO/EN process 135) performed in a smoke‑box (box method) per EN ISO 15011‑1 and prEN ISO 15011‑2 to determine emission rates.
- Typical welding parameters: Example values given (e.g., ~250 A, ~300 mm/min, 15 l/min shielding gas, 1.2 mm wire, G3Si1 classification) with defined tolerances - tests use consistent parameters for comparability.
- Sampling and analysis: Determination of emission rates for particulate and gaseous species. Particulate analyses should include elements such as Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Pb, Cr(T), F. Gaseous analysis includes nitrogen oxides (NO/NOx) and carbon monoxide (CO) and other decomposition products where relevant (e.g., solvents, formaldehyde) if expected.
- Data treatment and reporting: Average emission rates calculated for coated vs uncoated specimens; the change (variation) in emission rate is reported. Test report must include product name, type, dry film thickness, welding consumables and parameters, material certificates, emission variations for each constituent, and lab identification.
Practical applications and users
- Occupational hygienists and safety managers: Use results to evaluate workplace exposure, ventilation needs and PPE selection when welding pre‑coated components.
- Paint and primer manufacturers: Document and compare primer formulations for low fume/gas emission performance and support safety data sheets (SDS).
- Fabricators and OEMs: Specify primers that minimize hazardous emissions during downstream welding and cutting operations.
- Regulatory compliance: Provide measured data to support compliance with national hygiene and environmental regulations and to prepare fume data sheets.
Related standards
- EN ISO 15011‑1 / prEN ISO 15011‑2 (laboratory sampling and emission rate determination)
- EN ISO 17652‑1 (general requirements for tests on shop primers)
- EN 10025, EN 10238, EN 439, EN 440, EN ISO 2808 (referenced material, consumable and coating standards)
Keywords: ISO 17652-4:2003, shop primers, welding fumes, fume emission testing, MAG welding, welding safety, emissions classification, EN ISO 15011.
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