Replies

1. 
   JimGG | May 18, 2002 07:18pm | #1

   I've had one for about 5 years, & like it. No complaints. Canister face masks did not work well for me because I wear glasses, & the canister mask would raise my glasses too high. Glasses fit easily inside the Racal. The Racal has a bigger filter that is more efficient, and the air pressure inside the mask keeps dust from getting in around the edges. When I started woodworking about 30 years ago I didn't pay much attention to breathing dust. But now I have to use my handkerchief all day long 365 days per year. Whether this came from wood dust, pollen, or something else, I don't know. Not breathing wood dust is a lot more important that the price of a Racal. I've never had any maintenance problems with the Racal, still have the original battery. You also get the built-in face protection which is important with lathe work.

1. 
   JoeCoty | May 19, 2002 05:36am | #2

   I used a version with a hepa filter while working in isolation rooms of a hospital. The fit is much looser than what is experienced with other mask systems raising doubts about its effectiveness in an environment of virulent germs. But our staff treated very sick and compromised patients with extremely resistant strains of TB and such, and nobody picked up an infection using these "visors".

   Also the fan provides a cool breeze across one's face- a plus in the summer. And there is no resistance to breathing like a pleated or simple mask. The visor on our model was flimsy and distorted viewing a bit, and the hood was a tyvex like material prompting reservations how well it would hold up in a shop.

   The system works by providing a small amount of positive pressure within the mask keeping contaminates from being entrained. I need to prioritize one for myself.

1. 
   Biscardi | May 19, 2002 11:02am | #3

   I bought a Rachall sytem with a mask/helmet/ waist pack. These are really nice and I'd recommend one . Since 1985 I've seen 6 lung cancers in non-smokers. Three of these individuals were woodworkers- it makes you wonder.

   At any rate, I need some replacement parts. Does anyone have a number I can call Rachall at? I think they were purchased by someone.

   Thanks

1. 
   JimGG | May 19, 2002 02:32pm | #4

   http://www.airwareamerica.com.  1-800-328-1792.