Respirator filter for working with Micarta.

[Fixall]

Hello!

I'm going to be working on my first set of Micarta scales very soon and I would like to be sure I am properly protected.

Right now I have a 3M 6500 half mask (and goggles of course) and some 3M 60921 filters. The filters are rated for organic vapor (OV) and P100.

Are these filters going to be enough for the formaldehyde and phenol gas released by the Micarta or do I need to step up to the 3M 60925 filters which look to be rated for formaldehyde/organic vapor and P100?

Seems like the 60921 would be enough considering both formaldehyde and phenol are organic... But then why would they make a formaldehyde/OV specific filter....

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

If you are worried about it, use the 60295 filters. The gasses making your eyes water is more of a problem. Air flow and ventilation, like a fan blowing from the side, is a good idea. Grind slowly with fresh belts to avoid the heat that releases the gasses.

 

[Fixall]

If you are worried about it, use the 60295 filters. The gasses making your eyes water is more of a problem. Air flow and ventilation, like a fan blowing from the side, is a good idea. Grind slowly with fresh belts to avoid the heat that releases the gasses.

Honestly, I feel like the 60921 will be sufficient. I'll be mainly be using hand tools as I'm a little worried about scorching the scales (and also think it could be fun), so I don't imagine too much heat will be produced. I just figured I'd throw the question out there to you experienced craftsmen in case I was being an idiot.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Regular P100 filters will work fine. It takes grinding heat to release the gasses.

 

[john april]

i cool my micarta handles in water the same way as when grinding a blade post heat treat. if it gets too hot it will change color, especially around the pins as well as releasing the gas.

 

[Fixall]

Regular P100 filters will work fine. It takes grinding heat to release the gasses.

Excellent, that's what I was hoping for. I don't imagine I'll be producing nearly enough heat, unless I go crazy on the hand sanding.

Thanks!

i cool my micarta handles in water the same way as when grinding a blade post heat treat. if it gets too hot it will change color, especially around the pins as well as releasing the gas.

Sounds like a good way to keep the Micarta dust down too.

 

[Fixall]

*Edit
Scratch the sanding drums for my drill press. After looking around, I decided to go with a cheap belt sander locally.

On the plus side... I was able to find a 3M 7500 and a set of 60926 Multi Gas cartridges for cheaper than the 6500/60921 setup I had.

I'll have linen Micarta, birdseye bocote, and african blackwood all here on Friday. We'll see how this goes.

 

[Hengelo_77]

I use filters for the finest sort og dust that 3M offers, just to be safe