Chromium (VI) compounds (chromates) as dust deposits on turbines and engines
The title sounds like another science fiction movie with life-threatening dangers from outer space.
Unfortunately, however, it seems to be bitter reality in Germanys power plants or simply where engines, steam or gas turbines are operated.
But Germany is not alone with its renowned production of energy-generating technology; in the coming publications, we will shed light on a topic that probably affects the whole world.
worldwide problem
Wherever steam and gas turbines, or engines and generators, produce energy, it could be lurking, the harmful because carcinogenic and mutagenic dust, in small particles, but still large and dangerous enough to cause damage to health.
Once again, the "little man" would be ignorantly exposed to dangers, which is probably gladly concealed so far.
Where there's no plaintiff, there's no judge?
Up to now, the problem has been swept under the carpet.
The danger is known, but not yet so public that it is properly perceived.
Chromium (VI) compounds in dusts and deposits in heat-insulated equipment such as motors, generators and turbines
Particularly in the case of thermal insulation with so-called "insulating mattresses" (insulation jackets, insulating blankets, etc.) or other mat-like insulating materials, it cannot be ruled out that even when the materials used, which are not in themselves of concern, are used properly, chemical processes can be set in motion which could ultimately lead to the formation of carcinogenic and mutagenic substances (chromium (VI) compounds, especially chromates).
Recall actions not ruled out
Is the industry facing a new threat? Even in the past, there was always hesitation when it came to correctly assessing hazards.
I, for my part, as the author of this website, accompanied my father to his death almost thirty years ago, and in my first years of work I saw how dear people died just because they had contact with harmful materials.
Wives died only because they put their husbands' work clothes in the washing machine.
It is possible that today's danger cannot be compared to the conditions of that time, but have we learned from the mistakes of that time?
Will we accept the latest findings and take steps to ensure that the present hazard situation is at least contained?
I could not, and admittedly did not want to, believe it at first when some users approached me months ago and asked if I was aware of the above-mentioned problem.
No, I wasn't, but I was interested, because I have been working in this field for over thirty years and have a certain amount of experience.
Nevertheless, I was interested and that's when the dilemma literally began.
More about this shortly or as they say today:
stay tuned!
Kind regards
Markus Sommer
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