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Hazards of hexavalent chromium in aluminum conversion coating

I use Alodine 1132 regularly to conversion coat aluminum plate. I understand that Type 1 conversion coatings utilize hexavalent chromium which is a constituent of Alodine 1132. What are the associated health risks and what precautions can be taken to avoid exposure to this hexavalent chromium.

Thank

Peter Rhoades
Project Engineer - Berthoud, Colorado
2007

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The MSDS on the product you mentioned should contain all of the appropriate safety precautions to use when using that product.

Marc Green
anodizer - Boise, Idaho
2007

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2007

Hi Peter,

There are a lot of concerns when working with Hexavalent. If you go to the Osha site you can find out a lot of information.
The usual PPE and perhaps a respirator should be used. If you have tanks they should be properly ventilated.
If this is a production line you may need to test your employee's or yourself for exposure.
The Osha site can really help you out - Small Entity Guide for the Hexavalent Chromium Standards.

Hope this helps,

Micheline Forth

Micheline Forth
Finishing Company - Rincon, GA, USA