Forging Mill Scale contamination on surface before laser cleaning
Ikmanda Roswati
Ikmanda RoswatiPh.D.Indonesia
Ultrafast Laser Physics and Material Interactions
Published
Dec 16, 2025

Forging Mill Scale Contamination

Forging-scale, it consists of black oxide layer that forms during hot forging and rolling operations on steel surfaces. This contamination, it shows dense adherence and dark coloration, thus distinguishes from rust by its thermal origin and resistance to mild abrasion. On carbon steel, scale persists strongly and challenges mechanical removal, but laser cleaning effectively ablates it through precise energy absorption, so surface restores without damage.

Safety Information

Critical safety data for laser removal operations

Fire/Explosion Risk
low
Toxic Gas Risk
moderate
Visibility Hazard
moderate

Required Personal Protective Equipment

Respiratory Protection
PAPR
Eye Protection
goggles
Skin Protection
full_suit

Hazardous Fumes Generated

CompoundConcentrationExposure LimitHazard ClassStatus
Iron Oxide (FeO/Fe2O3/Fe3O4)5-50 mg/m³5 mg/m³irritant✓ Within Limit
Carbon Monoxide10-100 mg/m³29 mg/m³toxic✓ Within Limit
Ozone0.1-2.0 mg/m³0.2 mg/m³irritant✓ Within Limit

Ventilation Requirements

Air Changes Per Hour
10
Exhaust Velocity
0.5 m/s
Filtration Type
HEPA

Particulate Generation

Respirable Fraction
80%
Size Range
0.1 - 10 μm

Substrate Compatibility Warnings

  • Avoid laser cleaning on painted surfaces containing lead or chromates
  • Ensure substrate is free of oil/grease to prevent additional fume generation
  • Test on small area first - laser may alter base metal surface properties