Help with respirator filters please!

Wow, thanks Gip! The detailed information and advice you have given has really helped to reassure me that the filter I was looking at was the right type.

What would we do without you Gip?
You da man brother.

Mike

The 2128 cartridge you are referring to is a "combination" cartridge--that is it includes a particulate filter for dusts, mists, and fumes, and treated activated charcoal that not only removes organic vapors, but also removes acid gases. While it is (usually) a more expensive filter, it is more convenient to use than an organic vapor cartridge and its attendant prefilter(s). I don't think that $10 is too much to pay for what you're getting. In addition, the 2128 is designed to fit the older 6000, and newer 7500 series respirators. Depending on your painting habits, controls (room fans, open windows, etc), and how you treat your respirator after painting sessions are complete will determine how long the cartridges last. Based upon professional judgement and personal experience, I would expect your cartridges to last a LONG time before replacement is necessary. Of course, any time you smell contaminants through the respirator, or have difficulty breathing (given a good face-to-facepiece seal), you should consider changing the cartrigdges.

Merry Christmas!
Gip Winecoff

Thanks. I know what you mean about the 3m website - it is definately a bit confusing!

Here in the states the most common place to find them are places that carry paints and panting accessories. Hardware stores in the painting sections, stores that carry auto body paints, etc. Mine is a 3M model 6200 and you might be able to find something on 3M's web site (be aware that it is one of the worst in the world when it comes to trying to find something). They have a store locator, but they sell so many different things it might point you to some place that sells nothing but their tape.

Someone else in the UK was looking for one recently, but I can't recall who. You might scan back through a few pages and see if you see something.

Hi, thanks for the advice. I can't get the links to work, as they keep timing out - sorry about that! It seems to be quite difficult to find decent respirators where I live in the UK - my local branch of one of the biggest DIY chains in the country doesn't even sell them!

I couldn't get the links to work but from the descriptions they sound right. Keep the organic vapor cartridges in a Zip-Lock bag when not in use and they will last for a good while.