[Shadow]

I've done a few searches and looked around a bit, but can't find information on good respirators for welding. The question is what respirator to buy?

I weld mostly in my garage which has very little ventilation. Predominantly just a box fan. I can't open the garage door itself because the dogs run off (another story). Anyway, I weld mild steel and some galvanised fencing. Don't want to pay an arm and a leg, but I do want something that works, and doesn't interfere with the welding hood.

Any help with a recommendation for a respirator is greatly appreciated.

Thanks

[weldin mike 27]

Hi there,

We have these at work. They itch abit but are good for occasional welding.

http://solutions.3m.com.au/wps/portal/3 ... 8039KT22bl

You can also get a silicone half face mask where you remove the filters and replace them.

Mick

[rankamateur]

We've been using the silicon half-masks, they fit under a hood pretty well. The boss-man wants me to look into the speedglass and miller respirator packs, as we recently started welding a lot of galvanized channel. The price on those really makes me cringe. The more I price them, the more I like my box fan, but I guess as much as we'll use it, the 1500-1900 price tag isn't horrible, especially as it will buy the newer guys some peace of mind.

[RedIron881]

Jody talks about a good respirator in his latest video. Here's the link. http://www.weldingtipsandtricks.com/pla ... oject.html I've used this one too and it works great.

[CoreyMac]

I just use the North 1/2 mask with the hose attachments to put the filters low on your back. Plus it fits under the helmet better with the filters relocated.

[Shadow]

Hey guys, thanks for all the information. Good stuff.

I picked up some of the disposables, but seriously looking into the half-masks.

Thanks.

[Otto Nobedder]

Organic vapor filters use activated charcoal to absorb carbon-chain molecules, like MEK and laquer thinner.

The zinc oxide in the air when welding galvanized is a fine dust akin to smoke. A particulate filter is what you're looking for, but they come in two grades-- The cheaper one is for coarser particles like drywall sanding dust.

You might get some guidance from 3Ms website. In fact, I might have a look, myself. If I find what you're looking for, I'll post the link.

Steve S.

[Otto Nobedder]

Here's what I found--

http://multimedia.3m.com/mws/mediawebse ... tGuide.pdf

Page ten describes the filters I was referring to, the N-95 and N-100. If you'll be using your respirator for other things, this page should help, but the N-series is perfect for welding galvanized, and does not have a set "service life", they only need replaced when they become dificult to draw air through, or unsanitary. The organic and oil vapor filters have to be replaced on a usage-based schedule.

As an aside, On one job I welded a great deal of galvanized steel over a few months, and never wore a respirator. The second day, I felt horrible, and the old milk remedy did help some. By the fourth day, it no longer affected me. On the plus side, I didn't catch a cold for almost two years!

Steve S.