Asbestos Generators, Turbines & Pumps
Asbestos was widely used in machinery and equipment during the mid-1900s. Products that were frequently made with the hazardous substance include:
- Generators
- Turbines
- Pumps
Generators, turbines and pumps that contain asbestos have been used in a number of different settings, including manufacturing plants, naval vessels, commercial buildings, schools and homes. While the use of asbestos was generally phased out by the late 1980s, many older generators, turbines and pumps may still contain the potentially-hazardous fibers.
Generators
A generator is an engine that relies on electromagnetic induction to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. Because generators often operate at very high temperatures, they pose a significant risk of fire and overheating if not properly protected.
To provide this protection, asbestos was commonly used as a component of generators. The fire-resistant nature of asbestos, along with its sturdiness and flexibility, helped provide excellent insulation.
Turbines
Turbines are engines that convert the kinetic energy of a circulating fluid into mechanical energy. During this process, turbines generate a large amount of heat, which could pose a health hazard if not properly insulated. Asbestos was commonly used to provide this insulation.
Pumps
Pumps are used to activate and regulate the controlled movement of liquids or gasses. Pumps serve a wide variety of purposes and are commonly used to move water, oil, hot air, steam and other fluids.
Asbestos was commonly used as a component of the gaskets and packing found in pumps. The substance provided a versatile yet sturdy source of insulation that was very cost effective. Pumps most commonly made with asbestos components include steam pumps, ammonia pumps and others pumps used to regulate the movement of high temperature or corrosive substances.
Exposure to Asbestos Generators, Turbines and Pumps
Workers could have been exposed to dangerous asbestos fibers if they were employed in occupations that required extensive handling of asbestos-containing generators, turbines or pumps. The machinery can pose a health hazard if the materials are damaged or deteriorated after years of exposure to heat, weathering or moisture. If damaged, asbestos fibers can be released into the air, where they can then be ingested or inhaled by surrounding workers. The fibers may also be released if the materials are broken, cut, sawed or drilled.
Workers at a high risk of asbestos exposure include:
- Power plant workers
- Oil refinery workers
- Plumbers
- Steamfitters
- Construction workers
- Boiler repairmen
- Insulators
- Maintenance workers
- Engineers
- Workers in the Navy
- Shipyard workers
- Demolition crews
- HVAC workers
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© 2012 The Mesothelioma Center |
Last Modified Tuesday, December 20th, 2011 | Disclaimer | Privacy Policy |
The information provided by The Mesothelioma Center is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Sponsored by a law firm concentrating in asbestos litigation, The Peterson Firm, LLP with offices at 1350 Connecticut Ave, NW, Fifth Floor, Washington DC 20036.
