Swarf
![]() |
This container is filled with aluminium swarf collected at the VW-factory Brunswick, Germany. |
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
Swarf is the term used to describe small chips, shavings, filings or other particles of materials created through different types of machining processes. It can be made from wood, metal, plastic or other construction substances and can be created in the form of chips, tendrils, dust, mist, fragments and so on.
[edit] Dangers of swarf
Metal swarf can cause health and safety issues for several reasons.
- Swarf particles can sometimes be sharp and projected with significant force. Flying swarf can cause injuries, particularly if it is sharp, and it can damage equipment. There are different types of personal protective equipment (PPE) recommended for those who may be exposed to swarf, including protective goggles, sleeves, aprons, gloves and safety shoes.
- Depending on the type of material, swarf can also be a fire hazard. Under certain circumstances (particularly if it is coated with cutting oil), swarf can be highly flammable. Swarf stored in containers or piles may even spontaneously combust. In these instances, fire extinguishers suitable for the material being cut should be to hand. For example, Class A water extinguishers should be available if wood swarf is created, and Class D powder extinguishers should be nearby if metal swarf is present.
[edit] Swarf recycling
Since some types of swarf require a great period of time to break down, they can be harmful to the environment; not only damaging to agriculture, but also dangerous to wildlife. It is possible to recycle some types of swarf, including metal. It may be safer and easier to transport swarf for recycling if it is first compressed into cubes. There is specialised machinery that can convert swarf from waste material into products such as bricks.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Boiler Upgrade Scheme and certifications consultation
Summary of government consultation which closes 11 June 2025.
Deputy editor of AT, Tim Fraser, discusses the newly formed society with its current chair, Chris Halligan MCIAT.
Barratt Lo-E passivhaus standard homes planned enmasse
With an initial 728 Lo-E homes across two sites and many more planned for the future.
Government urged to uphold Warm Homes commitment
ECA and industry bodies write to Government concerning its 13.2 billion Warm Homes manifesto commitment.
From project managers to rising stars, sustainability pioneers and more.
Places of Worship in Britain and Ireland, 1929-1990. Book review.
The emancipation of women in art.
Call for independent National Grenfell oversight mechanism
MHCLG share findings of Building Safety Inquiry in letter to Secretary of State and Minister for Building Safety.
The Architectural Technology Awards
AT Awards now open for this the sixth decade of CIAT.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson awards
Deadline for submissions Friday 30 May 2025.
The benefits of precast, off-site foundation systems
Top ten benefits of this notable innovation.
Encouraging individuals to take action saving water at home, work, and in their communities.
Takes a community to support mental health and wellbeing
The why of becoming a Mental Health Instructor explained.
Mental health awareness week 13-18 May
The theme is communities, they can provide a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and a sense purpose.
Mental health support on the rise but workers still struggling
CIOB Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025 shows.
Design and construction material libraries
Material, sample, product or detail libraries a key component of any architectural design practice.
Construction Products Reform Green Paper and Consultation
Still time to respond as consultation closes on 21 May 2025.
Resilient façade systems for smog reduction in Shanghai
A technical approach using computer simulation and analysis of solar radiation, wind patterns, and ventilation.