What is a PCB and why is it banned?
The presence of these contaminants in foods and the environment means that everyone can be exposed to very low levels of PCBs . Exposure to these low levels does not appear to affect human health. However, PCBs can accumulate in the human body and remain there for years.
What is a PCB congener?
A PCB congener is any single, unique well-defined chemical compound in the PCB category. The name of a congener specifies the total number of chlorine substituents , and the position of each chlorine.
When did they stop using PCBs in transformers?
1979
A common misperception is that because the regulations banned the manufacture of PCBs in 1979, PCB-containing electrical equipment is no longer in use.
Do capacitors contain PCBs?
PCBs are found extensively in transformers and capacitors used in the electrical industry and in a wide range of other products. Smaller PCB filled capacitors are fitted to electric motors, welders and fluorescent lights.
Do transformers still contain PCBs?
Many transformers still contain traces of PCB-contaminated oil even after the oil has been changed several times. PCBs were also used as a plasticizer, and added to certain construction materials.
What is PCB toxic?
PCBs, or polychlorinated biphenyls, are highly toxic industrial compounds. They pose serious health risks to fetuses, babies and children, who may suffer developmental and neurological problems from prolonged or repeated exposure to small amounts of PCBs. These chemicals are harmful to adults as well.
How can you tell if a capacitor has PCBs?
Running capacitors are identified by rectangular or oval metal casings. An oil-filled capacitor manufactured after 1979 may have “NO PCBs” stamped on its casing. These are filled with oil which does not contain PCBs and may be treated as a starting capacitor for disposal purposes.