Masks when working with Micarta

S

SkarpKniv

Joined
Sep 21, 2003
Messages
217
Can you use just a normal painters type of mask?The kind doctors use in movies, or do you need something more?What are the general prices, and things needed in the masks. Thanks for any replies
 
You need an organic vapor respirator, with two stage cartridges. they should be rated for organic vapor, and formaldehyde. Get cotton prefilters to go with the respirator also.

Dust masks are only good for mowing your lawn. Do not use them for anything other than that.
 
Ran out of refills for mine and can not find them anymore...where's a good place to get a new respirator?
 
I just bought a North 7700 on the recommendation of a few forumites here. For North respirators, the cartridges Mike is talking about are 75SCP100 Multi Gas/Vapor/P100. They're multipurpose OV cartridges rated for formaldehyde, with a HEPA prefilter. I got mine from http://www.majorsafety.com

On a related note: I know that grinding micarta will release nasty fumes, but will grinding steel or metal release vapors that a particulate filter won't stop? The reason I ask is that I'd like to use regular HEPA cartridges for blade grinding and save my OV/formaldehyde ones for handle work.
 
Originally posted by SteelDriver

On a related note: I know that grinding micarta will release nasty fumes, but will grinding steel or metal release vapors that a particulate filter won't stop? The reason I ask is that I'd like to use regular HEPA cartridges for blade grinding and save my OV/formaldehyde ones for handle work.
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Gases are released when almost any type of grinding is carried out.

Metal vapors(some quite toxic), phenol, and formaldehyde gas from the belts(they are used in the manufacture of them), many types of virii, from woods, etc.

It's just much safer to wear the respirator when doing any grinding, or buffing. Particules can remain airborne for quite some time after you finish too.

When you finish with the respirator, wipe it down with the recommended wipes, then store it in a zip loc bag. That will prolong the life of the cartridges.
 
Thanks for the advice, Mike. Kinda makes you wonder if we should all be wearing respirators all the time, given the stuff that modern synthetics outgas and combustion engines spew constantly.:(
 
Originally posted by SteelDriver
Thanks for the advice, Mike. Kinda makes you wonder if we should all be wearing respirators all the time, given the stuff that modern synthetics outgas and combustion engines spew constantly.:(
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I hear you! I have wondered for years if much of the violence in the hot months, is not helped by the buildings lived in by the perpetrators, off gassing various toxic fumes.

Phenol, and formaldehyde(also contained in some carpeting) can have the effect on the body/mind in much the same way as PCP. If you are sensitive to it, exposure turns on the adrenalin, and it stays at full volume for many hours.:eek:

God knows what some of the other things we breathe can do, but I do know that many building materials contain toxic products.
 
Originally posted by Bruz
Ran out of refills for mine and can not find them anymore...where's a good place to get a new respirator?
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Try a local paint store that specializes in auto/body work. We always use a respirator when working with any handle material includeing micarta, we have a great air duct system but even though, grinding dust goes everywhere. Cavelady
 
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