This paper examines the use of computational fluid dynamics as a tool for predicting human exposure to aerosols generated during compressed air spray painting in cross-flow ventilated booths. Wind tunnel experiments employing a mannequin and non-volatile oil provide data to evaluate the numerical predictions. Fidap (v8.01) is used to calculate the velocity field and particle trajectories, while in-house codes were developed to post-process the trajectory data into mass concentrations, size distributions, transfer efficiency, and over-spray generation rates. The predicted dimensionless breathing-zone concentration of 0.13±23 percent is in agreement with the measured value of 0.13±15 percent given the uncertainties involved in such comparisons. Computational fluid dynamics is a powerful tool capable of providing useful information to occupational hygiene engineers involved in controlling human exposures to toxic airborne contaminants.

Issue Section:
Technical Papers
Keywords:
sprays, aerosols, environmental factors, computational fluid dynamics, ventilation, health hazards, Computational Fluid Dynamics, Spray Painting, Ventilation, Exposure Modeling, Aerosols, Occupational Hygiene
Topics:
Aerosols, Computational fluid dynamics, Painting, Particulate matter, Sprays, Cross-flow, Compressed air, Wind tunnels, Uncertainty, Computer simulation, Ventilation
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Copyright © 2001
 by ASME
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