Thread: Respirator Recommendations

So now that I'm cutting and shaping/sanding G10, I'm thinking maybe I need to go beyond the basic white mask. I try to do all my heavy-duty flattening, thicknessing, and grinding on dangerous materials on a flat-bed grinder set up on a work-bench in the side door of my shop. I open the double barn doors, put a fan on high blowing out, and spray the belt with water to keep down the dust. I also vacum and sweep out after each of these sessions. Still, you can't be too careful. I'm also thinking of shaping some more wedges from malachite, and I just got in some beautiful red japser for the same purpose. Dangerous stuff from my reading of the lapidary boards!

There are a million choices on Amazon and Ebay; what do you guys recommend that will filter out that dangerous dust? I might even consider full-face to take care of eye protection too. Thanks in advance for any thoughts!

While I don't work with G10 I do use a respirator--
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

With these filters:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I cut out a circle from a paper towel and use a rubber band to create a 'Pre Filter' to keep the discs clean. I also take them off and store in plastic Ziploc bags when I'm not using them. I do the same with the mask--just keeps things clean--

3M Painting valved Safety Mask is what I use. It's P95 for solids and aerosols. $35.00 at Lowes. Replacement cartridges are $18.
It's comfortable and fits flush so you can use a face shield without any problems.

Got mine at home depot. P95 also. Works great and fits well. Dont remember what I paid but it was a great investment.

Originally Posted by Gasman

Got mine at home depot. P95 also. Works great and fits well. Dont remember what I paid but it was a great investment.

I did just like Jerry... I use the 7093 cartridges for dry airborne particulates and the 6001 for organic vapors, spraying weeds etc.