I’ve seen the Triton and Trend, anyone using something different? I’m getting headaches after breathing sawdust nowadays even with an air filter and dust collector. Things could be improved but I still sand and route and in general make a mess anyway.
Thanks
mousejockey
Replies
Dust generally doesn't cause headaches, they're usually caused by chemical exposure. One common trigger is low levels of carbon monoxide, another is formaldehyde from sheet goods.
John White, Shop Manager, Fine Woodworking Magazine
Thanks for the quick reply. I'm going for allergy testing next week but I feel that it's dust allergies causing sinus type headaches, however there is a gas water heater and gas furnace in the garage I work in. But I seem to get them on days like when it 70 deg. out and the eight foot wide door is open as well.
mousejockeyOver the Hill? What Hill? I didn't see any Hill!
I hadn't considered a sinus headache, so you are probably correct in thinking that the cause is an allergy, since the shop's ventilation would seem to make fume or chemical exposure unlikely.
John W.
I use a Triton respirator and it's made a big difference with my allergies. My only complaint is that you have to clean the filter frequently or the airflow is greatly reduced.
What lumbers are you using ? Some species are sensitizers and symptoms get worse with more contact over time. Much like the way different pollens effect many people differently. Also much like Bee stings, OK one sting, then anaphylactic shock the next. Read up on the different species of lumber you use, it will be an eye opener.
Work Safe, Count to 10 when your done for the day !!
Bruce S.
I'm currently using Lyptus.
OK, let's get back to the original question about powered respirators. Anyone using the Trend and have an opinion? Others?
Thanks
mousejockeyOver the Hill? What Hill? I didn't see any Hill!
I've got an Aircap 2 that Woodcraft sells. It's kind of flimsy and it looks so weird you could probably get arrested wearing it on the street; but I like it's light weight and comfort; it's worked well for the approximately 1 1/2 yrs that I've had it.
I previously had the 3M powered shield type respirator which looked much like the Trend and it didn't suit me at all, it felt heavy and awkward. The Trend may be an improvement
When I researched replacing the 3M I was told that the Triton had a very stiff hose which would push the helmet around as you moved. That may or may not be the case, I couldn't find one to test, and it may have been resolved since. With a flexible hose the Triton probably would have been my first choice.
I am completely satisfied with my "3M Airlite", though I am not sure they are still in production BY 3M.
Frosty
Hello:
First post here after a couple of years of lurking. First of would like to thank all of you for teaching me a whole lot. Am not really new to woodworking but came back to it after years and have been busy building up a shop and techniques over the past 4 years. Finally at a stage where I can give something back in terms of constructive feedback on issues.
Now to the subject on hand – Trend Airshield. I do have one and use one. It takes a little getting used to but works. I am allergic to dust in general and although it is not a problem with hand tools, it is a problem with power tools. I do not have a dust collector although I am exploring the option of getting one this year. Before, I bought Trend, I used N95 dust masks.
With Trend you have to make sure, you clean it from time to time. I am still working on basics so majority of the time; the material is either pine or plywood. When I start up Trend, I find the air washing over my face has a distinct pine smell. After a few moments it disappears (or I get used to it – still debating on that). However, the critical thing is that even without a dust collector, I do not get any reaction. The battery is rated for 4 hours and I think I have worn it continuously for about 3 hours. You can buy second battery for a total of eight hour run time. The visor is a bonus as a second line of protection to your face.
I bought an air filter from Lee Valley last year and plan to install later on this summer. However, even after I have a dust collector and air filter installed, I will still use Trend as the last line of defense.
Hope this helps.
LB
I just got back from Woodcraft, I tried out the Trend and it seemed heavy and a bit awkward, The Triton just looks like too much equipment with the hardhat, ear muffs and full head/neck cover as well as a heavy battery pack and hose. I'd probably freak the neighbors out wearing it. They also had the one with the baseball cap, it may work but it just looks goofy. I'll probably end up with the Trend but it'll definitely take some getting used to.
Thanks for the replies
mousejockeyOver the Hill? What Hill? I didn't see any Hill!
Initially it does feel heavy and awkward however, as with everything you will get used to it. I am at a stage where after the first five minutes I have totally forgotten I am even wearing it! Make sure to buy a couple of extra filters.
Good luck with your purchase
LB
I have a Triton and I like it. The "hardhat and earmuffs" are a bit heavy and I did notice some neck fatigue when wearing it for extended periods. I actually removed the earmuffs to reduce the weight and just use the foam in-ear plugs. I covered the opening where the earmuffs were with tape.
I tried the Triton on at a WW show and really liked it. 'almost bought it, but had spent enough that day. ;)
I liked the positive airflow; I really dislike wearing one of those passive dust mask/respirators.
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