Risk Assessment of X-ray Exposure by Sparks and Arcs
In the manufacturing industry, sparks occur during operation due to collisions of metals, and strong sparks and arcs are generated even during welding works. X-rays are generated when high-speed electrons from outside collide with electrons in a metal. Thus, the objective of this study proposes the risk of sparks and arcs that can generate X-rays. We developed the spark generator using the electrostatic principle and constructed the arc generating device using the high voltage. The X-rays are measured when sparks and arcs are continuously generated between the anode metal target and the cathode metal. The measured X-rays were found to be harmful to humans when exposed for a long period. Therefore, workers exposed to workplaces with frequent sparks and arcs need to protect themselves.