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Volatile Non-Methane
Hydrocarbons Contamination:
Volatile Non-Methane Hydrocarbons (VNMH) which
have been mistakenly called "OIL VAPOUR" consists of light, volatile
hydrocarbons containing six or less carbon atoms. Examples are propane, butane,
ethane, ethylene, hexane etc. Air
compressors (including "non-lubricated" versions) utilize some type of
lubricating fluid. Many compressors contain either mineral or synthetic
lubricants. Even with all the filters, compressor malfunction or poor
maintenance can cause VNMH to contaminate the compressed breathing air. This can cause unpleasant
taste and odours, breathing discomfort, nausea, and possibly pneumonia.
An Infrared
Spectrometer can be used to measure the VNMH and identify the individual VNMH.
CSA-Z305.1-92 standard lists a 1/2 TLV maximum for
VNMH. Detectable levels
above 1 ppm are abnormal & require further investigation.
TLV = THRESHOLD LIMIT VALUE |
