Numerical Simulation of Human Exposure to Aerosols Generated During Compressed Air Spray-Painting in Cross-Flow Ventilated Booths

Abstract

This paper examines the use of computational fluid dynamics as a tool for predicting human exposure to aerosols generated during compressed air spray painting in cross-flow ventilated booths. Wind tunnel experiments employing a mannequin and non-volatile oil provide data to evaluate the numerical predictions. Fidap (v8.01) is used to calculate the velocity field and particle trajectories, while in-house codes were developed to post-process the trajectory data into mass concentrations, size distributions, transfer efficiency, and over-spray generation rates. The predicted dimensionless breathing-zone concentration of 0.13±23 percent is in agreement with the measured value of 0.13±15 percent given the uncertainties involved in such comparisons. Computational fluid dynamics is a powerful tool capable of providing useful information to occupational hygiene engineers involved in controlling human exposures to toxic airborne contaminants.