Sentry Air Systems

Highly Portable Tabletop Solder Fume Extractor

2012-01-27T08:22:00.000-06:00

Respiratory safety controls can sometimes be forgotten if your work requires frequent travel. It's one thing to construct a safe stationary soldering work area in your home office, but if you often travel to various locations and client workspaces to complete your work, you may find yourself in an unsafe working environment that fails to provide adequate ventilation for your process.

Because of the potential health risks involved with overexposure to solder fume, it is important to have respiratory controls both at home and on the road.

Sentry Air's Stainless Steel Solder Sentry is an example of a highly portable fume extraction solution that can easily be taken with you on your travels. All that you need is a 110V outlet.

This 8 lb. unit, which is equipped with HEPA Filtration [this media is up to 99.97% efficient on particles 0.3 microns and larger], measures 6.25" L x 8" W x 8" H.

This benchtop fume extractor is ESD-Safe for those worried
about electrostatic discharge damage to sensitive equipment.

Options to Further Customize Your Portable Fume Extractor

Wing Flaps:
Infinitely adjustable "wing flaps" and a acrylic hinged lid are available to further contain your soldering operation. These wings can fold against the sides of the unit when not in use for a more compact travel option.

Flexible Arm:
An semi self-supportive, anti-static flex hose is also available to more efficienctly captures hazardous particles at the source of emission. This arm can easily be detached and reattached for travel.

You can find additional health information and solder fume extractor configuration options (both portable and stationary) in the presentation below. Or visit our website.

Hazards of Solder Fume & Fume Extraction Equipment Recommendations

View more presentations from Sentry Air Systems, Inc.

For additional information on portable benchtop solder fume extraction, please call us at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive additional information from a Sentry Air Systems Applications Specialist.

Disinfectant Spray & Wipes for Fume Hoods

2012-01-24T11:22:00.000-06:00

To further improve safety and efficiency, we are now offering two additional cleaning accessories to complement our Ductless Fume Hood and Portable Clean Room Hood lines.

For those seeking an additional safety measure to ensure surface decontamination within their fume hood, you might consider trying our newly offered surface disinfectant:

CaviCide®- a nontoxic surface disinfectant that will not cause damage to the surface of your fume hood.

This disinfectant spray is designed to kill certain bacteria and viruses. See product website for details: www.metrex.com/surface-Cavicide
It is recommended for use on a variety of laboratory and hospital equipment where there is potential for infection.

Use these Pro-Wipes as a standalone accessory or in combination with CaviCide® spray:

Pro-Wipes®880- these polypropylene nonwoven wipes are designed for the cleaning of equipment and chemical spills. They are recommended for use in cleanroom environments because of their very low particle and fiber generation. These multi-layer wipes are compatible with a variety of acid solvents and common cleaning and disinfecting solutions (including Cavicide®). Ideal for use in a variety of laboratory, biomedical, and pharmaceutical compounding environments.

For further information on cleaning accessories for your Ductless Fume Hood or Portable Clean Room Hood, give us a call at 1.800.799.4609 or email us at sales@sentryair.com.

What is Source-Capture Fume Extraction?

2012-01-11T08:38:00.000-06:00

Source-Capture Fume Extractors

If you’re in the market for any kind of fume extraction orair purification system, there’s a good chance that you’ve come across the term “source-capture”.

As indicated by its name, "source-capture" fume extractors capture hazardous airborne particulate and fumes at the source of emission, as opposed to systems that are designed to purify general room air.

In the example below, a source-capture Welding Fume Extractor is being utilized to capture hazardous airborne by-product of the welding operation being performed. The source-capture hood of this portable unit is situated in very close proximity to the source of emission in order to capture the highest volume of airborne contaminants before they are able to reach the respiratory zone of the operator.

Sentry Air's Model 300 Welding Fume Extractor pictured above

The picture above is also an example of a purifying and recirculating source-capture fume extractor. After fumes and particulate are captured, they are directed through the fire-retardant flex arm and into the filtration system. The filtration system for this particular unit typically consists of a pre-filter and main filter [HEPA Filter- up to 99.97% efficient on particles 0.3 microns and larger]. Other source-capture models may vent outside.

Source-capture fume extractors are commonly equipped with one or multiple extraction arms. The material, length, and flexibility of these arms can vary depending on the manufacturer.

Examples:

Sentry Air Model 100 ESD-Safe Solder Fume Extractor with Anti-Static Flex Hose
(used primarily for solder fume extraction)

Sentry Air Model 500 Heavy-Duty Fume Extractor with
11' articulated extraction arm

Hooded enclosures, such as Ductless Fume Hoods, can also be considered source-capture fume extraction systems because they are designed to contain and extract airborne particulate and fumes to prevent them from being released into the immediate environment or operator's breathing zone.

Sentry Air's 40" Wide Ductless Fume Hood pictured above
for acetone fume control while cleaning parts

Ambient Air Cleaners

General room (or ambient) air cleaners are designed to lower overall particulate or odor levels in a room or enclosed space. These air purification systems can range from small units (for small rooms or offices) to large systems (for warehouses, restaurants, workshops).

Sentry Air's Model 200 Portable Room Air Cleaner

Sentry Air's Model 2000 Free-Hanging Industrial Air Cleaner

Local Exhaust Ventilation

The portable source-capture configuration shown in the welding application photo is one example of "local exhaust ventilation", which is often recommended by health and safety authorities when workers are utilizing hazardous material and need to stay below a certain exposure limit.

According to The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), they use the term "local exhaust ventilation" to refer to the following in regard to Safety and Health Regulations for Construction:

"Local exhaust ventilation when used as described in (a) shall be designed to prevent dispersion into the air of dusts, fumes, mists, vapors, and gases in concentrations causing harmful exposure. Such exhaust systems shall be so designed that dusts, fumes, mists, vapors, or gases are not drawn through the work area of employees." [osha.gov]

The primary duty of source-capture fume extractors is to capture hazardous particles before they are able to pass through the breathing zone of employees. General room air cleaners are not commonly recommended as a primary respiratory engineering control in this capacity because larger particles tend to fall to the ground (or are inhaled) before they are able to reach ambient air cleaners (which may be positioned at the opposite end of the room from the operation).

Using Source-Capture Fume Extraction and Ambient Air Cleaning

Utilizing both a source-capture fume extractor and ambient air cleaner (ex. welding shop air quality) can help to further improve air quality conditions, as opposed to just utilizing one option. If small particles manage to make it past your source-capture engineering control (several factors can influence this), the ambient air cleaner can be used as a secondary air quality control to capture these particles.

For more information on source-capture fume extraction options, please give us a call at 1.800.799.4609 to speak to a Sentry Air Systems Applications Specialist, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information.

Testimonial: Ductless Powder Containment Hoods for Pharmaceutical Compounding

2011-12-20T13:31:00.000-06:00

Empower Pharmacy of Houston, TX compounds custom medications to suit individual patient needs. They approached us during their search for a respiratory engineering control for the Pharmacist and Technicians while they compound. They specified that they would be working the majority of the day compounding capsules (capsule filling), creams, and sterile injectables.

After a thorough consultation with one of our Applications Specialists, two 50" Wide Standard Powder Containment Hoods were recommended for their processes.

The pharmaceutical technicians used these Powder Hoods for a period of time, but realized that they would need a higher sash opening because of the processes they performed:

"My technicians loved the quality and effectiveness of the hoods and complained only about the small size of the opening where they did their work. Sentry [Air] quickly redesigned custom hoods to my needs, took away the old ones and replaced them on the spot. Now much techs are loving the new hoods and I couldn't be happier with the excellent service I received." -Pharmacist, Empower Pharmacy

Sentry Air Systems Powder Containment Hoods are available in a variety of standard widths [12", 18" 24", 30", 40", 50", 60", 70], but many Pharmacists find that their processes require Powder Hoods with customized features, such as modified size requirements [width, height, depth, sash opening], custom cutouts [additional access areas], customized hood material, and other options.

"I needed to find quality hoods at reasonable prices, without all the frills and useless gimmicks a lot of other companies out there are adding to their products and I found the perfect hoods for my needs with Sentry Air Systems." Pharmacist, Empower Pharmacy

For more information on Powder Containment Hoods and other Compounding Containment Systems:

• View our "Pharmaceutical Compounding Containment Systems" Catalog [PDF]
• Call us at 1.800.799.4609
• Email us at sales@sentryair.com
• Fill out this form to receive additional information from a Sentry Air Applications Specialist.

Customized Benchtop Ductless Spray Booths

2011-12-19T14:49:00.000-06:00

Do you need a spray booth to contain overspray and capture hazardous fumes, but can't seem to find one that meets your exact parameters [e.g. size, air volume, ducting requirements]?

You may need a customized solution.

There are variety of processes that may prompt your search for a fume extraction & air purification system to control overspray and fumes. Applications might include:

• spray painting
• conformal coating
• air brushing
• adhesive and epoxy spraying

Your criteria for choosing a Ductless Spray Booth should include a variety of factors, from the chemical compounds found in the products you're utilizing, to workspace setup, to the amount of operators that need to be protected.

Depending on your criteria, you may need to have a spray booth customized to meet your requirements.

Sentry Air Systems offers a line of a standard Ductless Spray Hoods that utilize a powerful fan and triple stage filtration system composed of a unique internal spray filter, HEPA filter [up to 99.97% efficient on particles 0.3 microns and larger], and Activated Carbon filter.

Based on this patented design, customers can request modifications and additions that will better cater to their unique spraying application.

Sentry Air's standard 60" Ductless Spray Booth has the following dimensions:

60" Ductless Spray Booth used for spraying 3mSuper 77
Multi-purpose Adhesive Spray

There are a variety of ways that this standard Ductless Spray Hood design can be modified. Some examples include:

Increase in Air Volume
Custom Sizes [height, depth, width, sash opening]
Custom Hood Material [e.g. stainless steel, aluminum]
Anti-Static
Multiple Points of Entry
Custom Cutouts [e.g. side or back access points]
Hinged Lids
and more.

Custom Ductless Spray Booth Examples

This 60" Wide Custom Ductless Spray Hood is fabricated from Stainless Steel.
It is being used for an application that requires an ESD-Safe environment.

This 70" Wide Custom Spray Booth features a dual-hinged lid
and increased air volume with an upgraded Model 400
blower unit [upgraded from 350 CFM to 700 CFM of air volume]

This 70" Wide Custom Spray Booth was increased in height [36" H] and fitted with
two fan/filter units, as opposed to the standard single unit. This configuration increases
air volume and the amount of filtration media utilized.

Similar to the previous example, this Custom 50" Wide Spray Booth
also features two air cleaners; however, this particular unit offers far more
air volume than the previous example because of the fan/filter units being
utilized [Model 400s]. This unit can reach up to 1400 CFM of air volume.
It also has an increased sash opening (access area) for the operator's large
parts to easily fit inside the hood.

This 30" Wide Custom Spray Booth was fabricated
from Stainless Steel and the fan/filter unit was
upgraded to increase air volume. Click Here to read more
about this custom hood.

This Custom 50" Wide Ductless Spray Hood was
constructed from transparent material.

Sentry Air Systems Engineering & Design Team has years of experience in the design and fabrication of custom hoods. Applications Specialists are available to discuss the details of the materials or aerosol sprays you are using in your workplace in order to choose the most appropriate ventilation and filtration option for your specific application.

For more information on customization options for Ductless Spray Hoods or to start the consultation process [consultation and engineering drawings are free of charge]:

Call us at 1.800.799.4609

Email us at sales@sentryair.com

Fill out this form to receive more information from a Sentry Air Systems Applications Specialist.

Powder Containment Hoods for Capsule Filling & Pharmaceutical Compounding

2011-12-14T16:01:00.004-06:00

Pharmaceutical Compounding has multiple methods of practice.Examples include manual handling, capsule-filling (or tablet encapsulation)machines, and sieving and granulation methods.

All of these methods have the potential to produce hazardousdust that can be inhaled by pharmacists and technicians.

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA)explains that, “although the intent of compounding medications is to benefit patientstherapeutically, the ingredients used in these medications may presentoccupational hazards to the workers compounding them.” [1]

OSHA’s Technical Information Bulletin on the “PotentialHealth Hazards Associated with the Process of Compounding Medications fromPharmaceutical Grade Ingredients” describes multiple possible health effectsfrom the inhalation of certain drugs and medications.

Three common examples:

Specific Antineoplastics (anti-cancer drugs)—potential health effects: “chromosomal aberrations, congenital malformations, nausea, dizziness, and allergic reactions”. [1]
Compounded Hormone Medications—potential health effects: menstruation anomalies (e.g. irregular bleeding), possible testicular dysfunction, unwanted changes in physical appearance (“such as masculinization of female workers and breast development in males…”), an increase in breast cancer (“which may be attributed to inhalation and skin absorption of estrogen during work”). The technical bulletin notes that further research is needed to draw any definitive conclusions to long-term effects to continued exposure to small amounts of drugs. [1]
Certain Antibiotics- for instance, a compounding pharmacist or technician may be allergic to penicillin and could suffer a violent allergic reaction. [1]

OSHA emphasizes that individuals working in pharmaceuticalsettings should be educated and aware of the risks involved with themedications and drugs they work with. They also recommend methods for reducingemployee exposure to these drugs:

Engineering Controls (e.g., laboratory hoods [powder containment hoods], glove boxes, barriers and containments, and worker isolation)
Administrative Controls
Personal Protective Equipment (e.g., respirators, gloves and lab coats)
Training [1]

These recommendations are meant to help reduce direct skincontact, reduce inhalation of powders, and decrease the chances of workersgoing home with contaminated clothing.

Ductless Powder Containment Hoods

Sentry Air has been providing negative-pressure respiratory engineering controls to businesses in the pharmaceutical compounding industry for several years. We manufacture simple and efficient Ductless Powder Containment Hoods that are designed to quickly capture airborne powders and direct them into the patented filtration system.

We offer a variety of high-quality filtration options depending on the efficiency rate needed:

HEPA Filtration: Up to 99.97% efficient on particles 0.3 microns and larger.
ASHRAE Filtration: Up to 95% efficient on particles 0.5 microns and larger.
ULPA Filtration: Up to 99.9995% efficient on particles 0.12 microns and larger.

A pre-filter is also utilized for added protection and filter longevity.

Ductless Powder Containment Hoods are available in a variety of widths (12", 18", 24", 30", 40", 50", 60", 70", and custom sizes) and can accommodate a wide variety of compounding tools, such as capsule filling machines and balances (the majority of our Pharmaceutical Compounding Hoods have an interior height of 24").

40" Wide Powder Containment Hood

Custom 50" Wide Powder Containment Hood with extended sash height

Another popular option is our customized Laminar Flow Hood (The Winged Sentry) with optional hinged, clear acrylic lid. This unit features infinitely adjustable "wing flaps" that operator's can position depending on the process they're performing.

Model 300 Winged Sentry

For more information on Ductless Powder Containment Hood options:

• View our Pharmaceutical Compounding Containment Systems Catalog (PDF)

• Call us at 1.800.799.4609

•Email us at sales@sentryair.com

• Fill out this form to receive more information from a Sentry Air Systems' Applications Specialist.

References

[1] OSHA’s Technical Information Bulletin on the “Potential Health Hazards Associated with the Process of Compounding Medications from Pharmaceutical Grade Ingredients”: http://www.osha.gov/dts/tib/tib_data/tib20011221.html

Fume Control for Conformal Coating PCBs [Ductless Spray Hoods]

2011-12-08T09:35:00.001-06:00

Conformal Coating

A highly recommended last step in the manufacturing process of developing printed circuit boards (PCBs) is conformal coating. Conformal coating is a protective film that is applied to PCBs to protect them from a variety of naturally-occurring and man-made environmental hazards, including moisture, chemicals, dust, corrosion, and extreme temperatures. This protective measure is especially important for sensitive applications, such as aerospace technology, automotive manufacturing, and data communications.

Conformal coating comes in a variety of material options, featured properties, and application methods. Types of conformal coating include Silicones, Acrylic, Epoxies, Polyurethanes, Paraxylylenes, and Fluorocarbon. They are also available in Solvent-Based, Water-Based, Solvent-less Silicones, and Solvent-less UV Curable options.

There are a variety of application methods for coating PCB boards with this protective membrane. These include, but are not limited to:

Spray Applications- in which conformal coating is available in an aerosol can for direct application. Automated machinery is also available for spraying PCBs.
Dip Applications- This technique can be done by hand or by automated equipment. PCBs are slowly submerged and removed from coating material.
Brush Applications- This method is typically done by hand by brushing on conformal coating from a pot.
Transfer Coating- To complete this method, operators fill a tool pot with coating and then place and attach the PCB to the top of the pot. Once the PCB is firmly attached, the entire unit is turned over so that the PCB becomes coated. The unit is then turned back over and the PCB is removed.

The Hazards of Conformal Coating

Because many popular conformal coatings contain large percentages of solvents, potential negative health effects should be considered when utilizing these materials. When personnel in this industry reach out to us with the need for fume extraction and air purification of conformal coating, one of the brands that is mentioned frequently is Chemtronic's KonForm® SR.

Whenever a new conformal coating is introduced into your working environment, the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for that individual product should be read over thoroughly. When trying to improve air quality and limit inhalation of fumes and vapors of these products, a few key areas to look at on the MSDS are the following [as an example, we will look at the Chemtronic's KonForm® MSDS (PDF)]:

Section 2 of this MSDS covers Composition/Information on Ingredients:

For Hazard Identification in relation to this product, take a look at Section 3, which provides an emergency overview and potential health effects via various routes of entry.

Because of the negative health effects that are possible by overexposure to many of these ingredients, exposure limits have been established by various health and safety organizations. You can find these exposure guidelines in Section 8:

TLV: Threshold Limit Value, PEL: Permissible Exposure Limit, STEL: Short Term Exposure Limit

You will also find Exposure Controls and Personal Protection Recommendations in Section 8.

As indicated above, "Good general ventilation should be sufficient to control airborne levels. Local exhaust ventilation may be necessary to control any air contaminants to within their TLVs (threshold limit values) during the use of this product. If vapor concentration exceeds TLV, use NIOSH approved organic vapor cartridge respirator [...]."

Local Exhaust Ventilation: Ductless Spray Booths

One example of local exhaust ventilation that can be used with conformal coating applications (especially spray applications) is a benchtop Ductless Spray Booth. Ductless Spray Booths provide a negative-pressure enclosure that pulls airborne contaminants away from the operator's breathing zone. These systems are equipped with a powerful fan situated on top of the hood that draws aerosol particulate and fumes through a triple-stage filtration system consisting of an internal spray filter, HEPA Filter [up to 99.97% efficient on particles 0.3 microns and larger], and Activated Carbon Filter. This multi-stage configuration is able to capture the visible overspray, small respirable particles, and chemical fumes found in conformal coat spray at a relatively high efficiency

Sentry Air Systems offers 30", 40", 50", and 60" wide Ductless Spray Booths. Custom Spray Booths are also available with complimentary consultation and design. Custom Metal Spray Booths are an additional option for applications that require ESD-hood material. ESD-safe trays [pictured below] are also available for easy clean-up.

30" Wide Ductless Spray Booth shown above

Video Demonstration:

Want more information on Ductless Spray Hoods for Conformal Coating Applications?

Sentry Air Systems' Applications Specialists are able to review your process and aid in finding the appropriate solution for your conformal coating fume controls needs.

Ductless Benchtop Spray Hood for 3M Super 77 Multipurpose Adhesive Spray Fume Control

2011-11-30T09:51:00.001-06:00

3M Super 77 Multipurpose Adhesive Spray is used regularly ina variety of creative industries, including graphic design, advertising,model-making and architectural firms, product packaging companies, printingshops, and more.

Because this product is so useful and may be used practically everyday in some businesses, the health effects associated with it are often overlooked. In reality, your exposure to this product and other epoxy aerosol sprays should be monitoredand controlled on a continuous basis (even if you only use it from time to time).

Material Safety Data Sheet

If you take a look at the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for 3M Super 77 Multipurpose Adhesive Spray, you can find the potential health hazards associated with this spray under "SECTION 3: HAZARDS IDENTIFCATION", sub-section "POTENTIAL HEALTH EFFECTS".

Source

You'll notice that ill health effects can occur through several points of entry: eye contact, skin contact, inhalation, and ingestion. Additionally, it mentions the organs that are most likely to be effected.

If you continue on to SECTION 8 of the MSDS, you'll find the EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION section. This section provides recommended engineering controls that you can implement to help protect yourself from the hazards of this particular adhesive spray.

Source

Section 8.1 recommends using this product with local exhaust ventilation in a well-ventilated area.

One example of local exhaust ventilation is a benchtop spray hood. Some benchtop spray hoods can be exhausted outdoors via ducting, but depending on your location, city regulations may not allow you to vent this type of aerosol outdoors. Furthermore, many offices in high-rise builings simply don't have the option to duct outside. External venting maintenance can also become costly, as ductwork may become clogged and require frequent cleaning or repair.

To avoid these issues, you might consider a Ductless Spray Booth, which is equipped with specialty filtration media that captures hazardous overspray and fume and therefore does not require exterior ducting.

60" Ductless Spray Hood

Local Exhaust Ventilation: Ductless Spray Booth

As illustrated below, Ductless Spray Booths are designed to quickly capture and contain overspray generated inside the hood. It then travels through the internal spray filter, which captures most of the overspray. It then travels through the HEPA Filter (up to 99.97% efficient on particles 0.3 microns and larger) to remove the remaining spray particles, and then moves through the Activated Carbon Filter, which filters out VOC's and solvent vapors.

This configuration helps to protect the respiratory zone of the operator by quickly capturing contaminants and directing them into the filtration system. This unit can also help limit eye contact with overspray by offering significant containment. Ductless Spray Booths also help to protect expensive equipment that may be in the immediate area (e.g. computers, printing equipment).

Additional engineering controls should be utilized to avoid skin contact and ingestion. Suggestions are given in the MSDS for the featured product. [If you are utilizing a different adhesive or epoxy, you should acquire the specific MSDS for that product. The manufacturer should have this information available for you].

For additional information on Sentry Air Systems' line of Ductless Spray Booths:

References &Resources

-"Material Safety Data Sheet: 3M (TM) Super 77 Multipurpose Spray Adhesive 24 oz, Net Wt. 16.75 oz, #77-24"

-"Hazards of Epoxy Fumes"- Sentry Air Systems Blog

-"Awareness: Occupational Asthma"- Sentry Air Systems Blog

Heavy-Duty Fume Extractor with Cleanable Filter Media

2011-11-28T13:26:00.001-06:00

Does your business require heavy duty fume extraction, but the cost of replacing filter media deters you from getting the safety equipment that you need?

Consider fume extraction with cleanable filter media.

With smaller fume extraction units, the cost of replacing filter media may not cause financial strain, but the cost of filter replacement in heavy-duty models can add up and become cost prohibitive over time.

Sentry Air Systems Model 500 Heavy-Duty Fume Extractor with Micro-Pleat Series 1 Filters (for particulate extraction) is capable of up to 1300 CFM of air volume and may be an appropriate respiratory safety engineering control for processes such as production welding (MIG, TIG, Stick, Plasma Cutting), grinding, powder weighing, multiple operator fume extraction, and some dust collection applications.

With the use of pressurized air from an external source, the filter media (4 individual filters) can be easily cleaned and rejuvenated multiple times prior to replacement.

Model 500 Heavy-Duty Fume Extractor shown without Extraction Arm

As the operator sprays compressed air on to the filters with air from the outside of the unit, excess dust and waste falls to the internal dust pan, allowing for simple and clean debris removal.

The included magnehelic gage is an excellent tool for determining filter saturation and a filter cleaning schedule. When the filters are saturated, the pressure will increase several inches (water pressure). This indicates that it is time to clean the filter media again.

In-house factory testing of this cleanable filter media showed the following results:

Location: Houston, TX. Uncontrolled/Non-Conditioned Shop Workplace (Humidity 80%+)
Material: Flux Core Wire
Results: After 2000 lbs. of flux wire, the unit and its filters were still performing with very little pressure drop and almost all of the original CFM after only 3 filters cleanings.

The Model 500 is available with a variety of source-capture arms. Two popular options are the following:

For more information on heavy duty fume extraction with cleanable filter media, please call us at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information from one of our Applications Specialists.

Testimonial: Free-Hanging Industrial Ambient Air Cleaner

2011-11-21T14:46:00.000-06:00

Argentum Medical, LLC is a producer of medical products from silver coated fabric (i.e. Wound Care, Burn Care, and Surgical Products). The company's Operations Manager contacted us recently and wanted information on an air purification solution that would improve their air quality by lowering the overall particulate count (generated primarily by the fabric they use in their products) in their manufacturing facility. She had tried several other air quality solutions before contacting us, but none of them seemed to work efficiently:

"I had tried numerous filters, installed a clean effects system on the air handler and the particulate was still in the 3,000,000,000 range using a particulate counter. After installing the Sentry Air free hanging system my worries were over. The particulate count has not been over 500,000 and most of the time it is below 300,000."

[Jeanette Cantrell | Operations Manager | Argentum Medical, LLC]

The Model 2000 Free-Hanging Ambient Air Cleaner

The free-hanging air cleaning system that Argentum Medical uses in their manufacturing facility is the Model 2000 Free-Hanging Ambient Air Cleaner.

This self-contained system, specifically designed to be mounted to the ceiling, offers powerful air volume and a high-quality dual stage filtration system. It is capable of up to 2000 CFM and features a MERV 7 Pre-Filter and MERV 14 Main Filter. Two-speed operation control and a four-way adjustable grill are also included.

This system’s simple and low maintenance operation make it the perfect air quality solution for a variety of industrial and commercial venues. Aside from manufacturing settings, this system can be used as an ambient air cleaner in a number of other environments, including welding shops, automotive repair facilities, woodworking shops, auditoriums, cafeterias, and a variety of other settings that produce unwanted dust, smoke, and fumes.

For more information on ambient air cleaning systems:

The "Buy Quiet" Initiative: Fume Extraction Products

2011-11-11T13:40:00.024-06:00

According to The National Institute for Safety & Health (NIOSH):

“Four million workers go to work each day in damaging noise. Ten million people in the U.S. have a noise-related hearing loss. Twenty-two million workers are exposed to potentially damaging noise each year.”

Research spanning the last few decades has led to an increased effort by safety and health organizations to educate and recommend methods for lessening the frequency and impact of occupationally-induced hearing loss. Programs like the NIOSH Hearing Loss Research Program Review (HLR) and more recently, the “Buy Quiet” initiative by NIOSH and its partners, strive to promote hearing loss prevention techniques and engineering controls.

NIOSH Recommendations

For noise and hearing loss prevention, NIOSH recommends the following exposure limit:

Exposures at and above 85 dBA (decibels) as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) are considered hazardous (using a 3-decibel exchange rate).

They also recommend the 8 items listed below for implementation in hearing loss prevention programs:

1) Noise Exposure Monitoring
2) Engineering and Administrative Controls
3) Audiometric Evaluation
4) Use of Hearing Protection Devices
5) Education and Motivation
6) Record Keeping
7) Program Evaluation
8) Program Audit

The "Buy Quiet" Initiative

The “Buy Quiet” initiative, as mentioned earlier, promotes preventative hearing loss controls and specifically encourages the purchase of “quiet” machinery and tools by procurement personnel; especially by those in the construction and manufacturing industries [according to NIOSH, “occupational hearing loss is the most commonly recorded occupational illness in manufacturing.”].

Sentry Air Systems provides fume extraction and air purification equipment for a variety of industrial, pharmaceutical, laboratory, manufacturing, and construction processes, including welding and soldering processes, ambient air cleaning, chemical and solvent fume containment, laser fume control, and much more. The majority of our fume extraction products are well below the NIOSH-recommended 85 dBA exposure limit. For instance:

Model 300 Welding Fume Extractor = Approximately 61 dBA to 66 dBA (variable speed control, low to high) @ 3'.

Model 300 Wall-Mounted Welding Fume Extractor = Approximately 61 dBA to 66 dBA (variable speed control, low to high) @ 3'.

Industrial Paint Booth = Approximately 61 dBA to 66 dBA (variable speed control, low to high) @ 3'.

For more information on fume extraction products with low noise operation, please contact us at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive additional information from a Sentry Air Systems Applications Specialist.

References/Helpful Information on Hearing Loss Prevention in the Workplace

Check out NIOSH's Noise Meter tool to get an idea of how loud your standard operating equipment is.
NIOSH Website: Noise and Hearing Loss Prevention
NIOSH Website: World-Related Hearing Loss
NIOSH (pdf): "Occupationally-Induced Hearing Loss"

Portable Fume Extractors for Elevated Welding Operations

2011-11-03T14:05:00.001-05:00

Photo Source: http://flic.kr/p/6e1Lsy

There are numerous welding-related occupations that require workers to frequently perform elevated operations, especially in maintenance and construction industries. Just as respiratory protection should be utilized during ground-level welding operations, it should also be used for elevated applications. If you typically use a stationary or portable welding fume extractor (i.e. local exhaust ventilation) for respiratory protection, you may be wondering how you’re going to get that 50-400 lb. unit up into the raptors or scaffolding.

Depending on your application, the following options may provide adequate welding fume control for your work in elevated spaces (without the risks associated with 1) trying to move heavy fume extraction equipment into elevated spaces, and 2) going without respiratory protection).

The Model 200 Mini Welding Fume Extractor

With a weight of only 12 lbs., the Model 200 Mini Welding Fume Extractor can easily be carried into elevated spaces [a carrying handle is included]. This recirculating unit internally houses a filtration system, which is typically comprised of a pre-filter and HEPA Filter [up to 99.97% efficient on particles 0.3 microns and larger]. This model provides up to 100 CFM of air volume [if you believe that you'll need more air volume for your particular application, scroll down to see other model options that feature more powerful fans].

Additional Options

If you believe that the Model 200 Mini Welding Fume Extractor will not offer enough air flow, you may want to consider one of the following options:

The models pictured above cannot usually be carried into elevated spaces, but can reach these spaces via flexible hose. Standard hose lengths are 12' and 25'. The hoods of these hoses are magnetized, so they can be easily attached to metal surfaces for hands-free operation.

Click on the following links for information on each of the individual products shown above:

Model 300 Python Portable Floor Sentry [up to 350 CFM]
Model 400/450 Python Portable Floor Sentry [up to 700/950 CFM]
Model 500 Heavy-Duty Fume Extractor with Python Hose [up to 1300 CFM]

For additional welding fume extraction options, take a look at our full line of welding models on our company website.

You can also give us a call at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive additional information or a quote from one of our Applications Specialists.

LabX.com Promotion: Free Accessories with the Purchase of an 18" Ductless Fume Hood

2011-10-28T11:20:00.000-05:00

Take a look at our limited-time promotion on LabX.com. We're offering a complimentary Main Filter [e.g. HEPA Filter, Activated Carbon Filter] and Installed Hour Counter with the purchase of a Sentry Air Systems 18" Wide Ductless Fume Hood.

18" Wide Ductless Fume Hood [Model # SS-218-DCH] pictured above.

This compact Ductless Fume Hood can be utilized for a variety of laboratory applications, including chemical fume control, pharmaceutical compounding, time-sensitive field testing applications [water sampling, biological preservation, etc.]. For detailed information on this offer, please visit our LabX advertisement here.

Screenshot: LabX.com

For additional information on Ductless Fume Hood options:

Visit Our Website
Give us a call: 1.800.799.4609
Email Us
Fill out this form and an Applications Specialist will get back to you with more information.

Environmentally-Friendly Exhaust Hoods

2011-10-18T09:51:00.000-05:00

There are many individuals and companies that are choosingto join the “Green” movement in order to help protect the environment andimprove living conditions for current and future generations. In fact, wereceive a variety of inquiries from companies asking how they can safely dealwith the harmful airborne contaminants that are by-products of their dailyoperation. They strive to protect their workers as well as the environment.

For instance, an environmentally-friendly company recently contacted us and explainedthat they would like a fume extractor [specifically a hooded enclosure] and filtration system for use during a spraypainting process at their facility. However, city regulations would not allow them to usea recirculating filtration system indoors, so they were forced to vent outside.

Because this company did not want to vent harmful contaminants outside, one of our Applications Specialists made the recommendation to still use a Ductless Spray Hood with the fan and filtration system, but feed the exhausting purified air into their existing ducting so clean air would be released outdoors. The Ductless Spray Hood can also be built without the fan system [filtration media only] if the existing exterior-ducting system already has a fan that creates sufficient air flow.

An example of this configuration is shown below with an 18" Wide Ductless Fume Hood [without the internal spray filter that would normally be installed for spray painting applications]. This is an example of a configuration that utilizes both the fan and filtration system before connecting to the existing ducting system.

Several Ductless Fume Hood sizes are available for this configuration and range from 12" to 70" Wide. A 40" Wide Ductless Fume Hood is pictured below [without an outlet plenum and ducting]:

A variety of additional configurations that release filtered air outdoors are also available and include benchtop and wall-mounted options.

The Model 400 Wall-Mounted Sky Sentry with Outlet Plenum is pictured above.

The Model 300 Table Sentry with Outlet Plenum is pictured above.

For more information on fume extraction systems that protect both the operator and environment, call us at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information from a Sentry Air Applications Specialist.

ESD-Safe Ductless Fume Hoods & Exhaust Hoods

2011-10-13T15:07:00.000-05:00

Electrostatic discharge, which can be caused by staticelectricity and electrostatic induction, can result in serious damage to sensitiveelectronic equipment, such as circuit boards.

In the electronics manufacturing process, a variety ofengineering controls are put in place to avoid electrostatic discharge, such asplacing conducting wrist and ankle straps on operators, utilizing anti-staticmats and floor materials, humidity manipulation, and a variety of additionalcontrol measures.

ESD-Safe Respiratory Engineering Controls

In many cases, respiratory engineering controls also need tobe taken into account when planning for an ESD-Safe work environment. There areseveral processes in this industry that can emit harmful fumes and particulate thatoperator’s should avoid inhaling. Examples include soldering, conformal coating,and spray flux fumes.

Sentry Air Systems offers ESD-Safe Ductless Fume Hoods &Exhaust Hoods as a respiratory engineering control for use during applications that are sensitive to electrostatic discharge.

Sentry Air's Ductless Fume Hoods are recirculating through the use of high-quality filtration media, so do not require exterior ducting or make-up air. Sentry Air's Exhaust Hood line is made up of free-standing fume hoods that are a simple addition to an existing exhaust system or ducting.

Standard sizes range from 12" Wide to 70" Wide. Sentry Air's Custom Hood Division can also design and manufacture ESD-Safe fume hoods according to customer specifications.

ESD-Safe fume hoods are also available in apositive-pressure configuration (also known as Portable Clean Room Hoods),which is suitable for data recovery applications that require a dust-freeworking environment.

ESD-Safe Material

A variety of ESD-Safe materials are available for Fume Hoods:

Polycarbonate
Acrylic
Stainless Steel
Aluminum
Glass (for front Lid)
Accessories: Anti-Static Spill Tray (available in a variety of sizes)

Examples:

60" Wide Stainless Steel Ductless Spray Hood [for conformal coating applications]

40" Wide Polypropylene Ductless Fume Hood

70" Wide Aluminum Ductless Fume Hood [multiple operator soldering on PCB's]

18" Wide Stainless Steel Exhaust Hood

24" Wide Stainless Steel Ductless Spray Hood

For more information on ESD-Safe Fume Hoods & Exhaust Hood options, please contact us at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information from an Applications Specialist.

Resources

Radio-Electronics.com: http://www.radio-electronics.com/info/electronics-design/esd/what-is-basics-electrostatic-discharge-tutorial.php

Electronic Discharge Association: http://www.esda.org/fundamentalsP1.html

Product Spotlight: Custom Ductless Spray Hood for Spray Fluxing

2011-10-10T09:25:00.001-05:00

At Sentry Air Systems, we design and manufacture a varietyof Custom Fume Hoods and Fume Extractors.

Recently, we were approached by a client that required afume control system during one step of their wave soldering process. Becausetheir printed circuit boards (PCB’s) did not fit in the wave solder machine forthe fluxing process, they needed to remove the PCB's from the machine and manually spray the flux within a separate contained area.

In order to provide adequate respiratory protection to theiroperators, who applied Kester 2166-BN flux directly the PCB’s, they requested afume hood. Requirements included:

ESD-Safe hood material

A hood face velocity of 100 FPM

Adequate filter capacity for an operation that runs 8 hours per day

Based on these requirements, our Custom Design Engineers manufactured a 24”Wide Stainless Steel Hood with a Sentry Air Model 400 air cleaner. Our Model400 is capable of up to 700 CFM of air volume, which creates a face velocity ofat least 100 FPM at the hood inlet.

Filtration Media used for this system includes: A MERV 11 Pre-Filter, Pre-Filter, and a custom-blended 22 lb. Acid Gas and Carbon Filter.

This filtration media allows the system to recirculate room air once it passed through the filter housing, so exterior ducting and make-up air are not required.

For additional information on Custom Fume Hood options like the one you see above:

Call Us at 1.800.799.4609
Email us at sales@sentryair.com.
Fill out this form to receive additional information from a Sentry Air Systems Applications Specialist.
Visit our website (Custom Hood Information)

Custom Fume Hoods: Design Options & Examples

2011-10-03T12:43:00.000-05:00

Take a look at our newest SlideShare presentation: it describes our Custom Fume Hood design process [this includes Ductless Fume Hoods, Ductless Spray Booths, Portable Clean Room Hoods, and Exhaust Hoods] and features examples of custom fume hood designs and modifications.

Custom design options include, but are not limited to:

Custom Size & Dimensions
Specified Hood Material & Color
Hood Transparency
Sink & Other Custom Cutouts
Slip-Hatches
Accessories for Hanging Equipment
Multiple Points of Entry
Multiple Folding Hinged Lids
Anti-Static [ESD-Safe]
Blower Configurations
Mounting Options
Rotating Elements

Custom Fume Hoods by Sentry Air Systems

View more presentations from Sentry Air Systems, Inc.

For more information on custom hood options:

Call Us at 1.800.799.4609

Email Us at sales@sentryair.com

Fill Out This Form to receive more information.

Product Spotlight: 70" Wide High-Flow Ductless Fume Hood

2011-09-29T16:15:00.000-05:00

Sentry Air's 70" Wide High-Flow Ductless Fume Hood [Model # SS-370-DCH-D] features two powerful air cleaners (also known as the "filter/fan units" or "blowers"), as opposed to one air cleaner (most of our Ductless Fume Hood models are configured with one air cleaner).

70" Wide High-Flow Ductless Fume Hood with Two Air Cleaners [Model # SS-370-DCH-D]

70" Wide Ductless Fume Hood with One Air Cleaner [Model # SS-370-DCH]

Reasons This Model May Work for Your Application:

Our standard singular air cleaner 70" Wide Ductless Fume Hood is capable of up to 350 CFM, while the dual air cleaner model can reach up to 700 CFM.
Many customers prefer this dual air cleaner option because two operators can utilize the hood at the same time (because of the unit's width) and receive double the air volume.
Two air cleaners also means double the filtration media.

Depending on the application you're performing, a variety of filter media can be utilized. Options include:

HEPA Filtration- 99.97% efficient on particles 0.3 microns and larger
ASHRAE Filtration- 95% efficient on particles 0.5 microns and larger
ULPA Filtration - 99.9995% efficient on particles 0.12 microns and larger
Activated Carbon Filtration
Specialty-Blended Filter Media: Acid Gas, Mercury, Aldehydes, Ammonia

This high-flow, dual air cleaner model has been used for a variety of applications, including chemical fume control, soldering applications, pharmaceutical compounding containment, solvent and epoxy fume control, light dust removal, biological applications, and many more procedures that require the removal of fumes and/or particulate.

This filter housing on this fume hood (and most other Sentry Air Ductless Fume Hood models) is capable of holding multiple filters, so a combination of chemical and particulate filters can be used if the application emits both particles and chemical vapors.

This Ductless Fume Hood can also be customized in a variety of ways:

Increased air volume
Multiple-entry options
Size/Dimensions specifications
Custom cutouts
Multiple folding hinged lids
Custom material request
Blower mounting options
Much more.

For more information on these custom options, click here.

For information on our standard 70" High Flow (dual air cleaner) Ductless Fume Hood:

Call Us: 1.800.799.4609
Email Us: sales@sentryair.com
OR Fill out this form and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.

Customizing Your Fume Extractor in Five Steps

2011-09-19T09:08:00.000-05:00

Workspaces and applications differ from person to person andcompany to company. Fume extraction is not “one size fits all”, which is why weat Sentry Air Systems emphasize modularity in our fume extraction and airpurification products.

All of our fume extractors start from the same basicconcept: an efficient and reliable recirculating air cleaner equipped with a powerful fan andhigh-quality filtration media.

One of the major benefits of these modular systems:

If your fume extraction needs happen to change in the future: simple alterations, additions, or accessories can be added to your existing Sentry Air unit to transform it into a new configuration.

Pictured above is a Model 300 Portable Room Air Cleaner; the basis for the modular
design of Sentry Air Systems' fume extractors.

Step One: Air Volume

Now that we have a base model, the first step in the customization of your fume extractoris determining how much air volume you will need to effectively capture thefume or particulate of concern. A Sentry Air Applications Specialist canassess your application by asking some brief questions about the volume ofparticulate or fume being dispelled, the nature of your workspace (to see howclose a fume extractor can be placed to your application), and a variety ofother questions that will allow the Specialist to select the most appropriateair volume.

Sentry Air offers several lines of fume extraction that differ byair volume:
Series 100 [up to 80 CFM]
Series 200 [up to 100 CFM]
Series 300 [up to 350 CFM]
Series 400 [up to 700 CFM]
Series 450 [up to 950 CFM]
Series 500 [up to 1300 CFM]
Model 2000 [up to 2000 CFM]

Step Two: FiltrationMedia

The second step in designing your customized fume extractoris the selection of filtration media. Every application is unique, so a SentryAir Applications Specialist personally selects the filtration media that bestsuits your needs by asking specific questions about your process, material, workspace (environment), volumeand time of the application, and more.

Here are examples of the filtration media most often used:

For Particulate Extraction:

HEPA Filtration-up to 99.97% efficient on particles 0.3 microns and larger.
ASHRAE Filtration- upto 95% efficient on particles 0.5 microns and larger.
ULPA Filtration-up to 99.9995% efficient on particles 0.12 microns and larger.

For VOC Fume Extraction:

Activated Carbon Filtration

Speciality-Blended Filter Media:

Acid-Gas
Mercury
Aldehdyes
Ammonia

In some instances, multiple "levels" of filtration media are utilized. For example, if the operator is extracting organic fumes in a clean room, we would utilize both an activated carbon filter and a post HEPA filter to ensure that the clean room does not lose its integrity. We are also able to special blend several different sorbent filter media as well, including acid gas, aldehyde, ammonia, and mercury media.

Step Three: Unit Configuration

The configuration of your fume extractor should be based on a variety of factors, including workspace area, how close you need to be to the source of emission of your application for efficient capture, the number of operators, and many more factors.

For instance, if you're MiG welding, you're not going to want either of the following systems:

A. A Portable Room Air Cleaner

Portable Room Air Cleaners are designed for ambient air cleaning. Most welding operations require source-capture fume extraction that quickly captures harmful fumes at the source of emission. Portable Room Air Cleaners may be a good secondary engineering control; however, these units do not give optimum operator respiratory protection because they are typically not placed in close proximity to the application and do not offer a source-capture accessory like a flame-retardant, self-supportive flex arm [See The Model 400 Welding Fume Extractor as an example].

B. A Ductless Fume Hood

Ductless Fume Hoods offer excellent fume containment; however, a unit like this wouldn't work well for welding applications because they typically don't offer enough space or flexibility for the operator. The high heat nature of the application also has the potential to damage the hood material [depending on the composition].

What We Would Recommend:

A local exhaust fume extraction system with flexible self-supportive arm works very well for many welding applications. The Model 400 Welding Fume Extractor pictured below features heavy-duty casters, a portability handle, and a flame-retardant, self-supportive flexible arm that the operator can place in the most efficient position for their application.

This unit offers flexibility, portability, and most importantly: a source-capture configuration.

Sentry Air's Model 400 Welding Fume Extractor

What Configuration Will Work Best for You?

We recommend first taking a look at your workspace. If you primarily work on a workbench or tabletop station: can that benchtop space also comfortably accommodate a fume extractor?

Sentry Air's Smallest Benchtop Fume Extractor, The Model 100
Stainless Steel Solder Sentry, is 6.25" L x 8" W x 8" H

The benchtop fume extractor below [The Model 300 Winged Sentry] is larger and is equipped with infinitely adjustable wings and a clear acrylic lid for further containment:

Another benchtop option is the Ductless Fume Hood, which typically will contain the application. Sentry Air's standard Ductless Fume Hoods range in size from 12" Wide to 70" Wide.

Sentry Air's 12" Wide Ductless Fume Hood

60" Wide Ductless Fume Hood

If you don't think that a benchtop fume extractor will work for your workspace, consider these two configurations:

Portable/Floor or Wall-Mounted

Portable and Floor Models are designed to sit on the floor (with or without casters) and reach your work area via flexible hose. The hoods of these hoses are designed to be placed in close proximity to the source of the fumes. Examples are pictured below:

Model 100 Stainless Steel [ESD-Safe] Floor Sentry

Model 200 Floor Sentry

Model 300 Portable Floor Sentry

Wall-Mounted Fume Extractors are equipped with self-supportive flex arms that are designed to hover over the work area, which can free-up much needed space. Examples are shown below:

Model 200 Sky Sentry

Model 300 Sky Sentry

Step Four: Do You Have Multiple Operators/Stations?

Another factor to take into consideration is the amount of operators you have or the number of fume extraction "stations" you would like to create. In many cases, especially if your operators are in relatively close proximity to each other, you can use one powerful fume extractor as the fume extraction "hub" and supply source-capture flex arms to multiple operators. For instance, the air cleaner on the fume extraction model below is capable of up to 950 CFM on the high setting, so each arm is individually capable of up to 235 CFM.

Model 450 Quad Arm Fume Extractor

Here are some other options (including dual arm models and a conceptual multi-station model): Multi-Operator Fume Extractors

Step Five: Options & Accessories

Now that we've determined 1) How much air volume you need, 2) What type of filtration media will be most effective for your application, and 3) What basic configuration your fume extractor should be [benchtop, portable, floor, hooded, wall-mounted] and 4) If you have multiple operators...

We need to determine what product options or accessories you'll need.

If you have chosen a source-capture model that will be equipped with a flexible arm: which specific arm will work best for your application?

For instance, let's assume again that you have a welding application.

What flexible arm would work better for you? A self-supportive arm or a "python-style arm"?

The Model 300 Welding Fume Extractor pictured above features
a flame-retardant and self-supportive 68" L x 5" dia. flexible arm

The "python-style" hose (shown below) works very well for confined space or elevated applications like tank welding, rapid location welding applications, and welding on metal beams. This hose has a magnetic capture hood that can be attached to various metal surfaces for hands-free operation.

The Model 300 Portable Python Sentry is equipped with a 12' L x 4" Dia.
[optional 25 ft. hose] flexible, flame-retardant "python" hose with a magnetic capture hood that can be
attached to a variety of metal surfaces

What Else Should You Consider? Other Items:

A Magnehelic Gage- The Mag Gage can be installed in almost every product that Sentry Air offers (excluding series 100 and 200 units). It monitors filter capacity, which is especially important if you're working with possibly hazardous materials. Air pressure will drop as the filter reaches capacity and the mag gage displays this on its easy-to-read face.

Hour Counter- The hour counter displays the hours the fume extractor has been operating. This helps with filter change-out schedules.

Endcaps- If you have a multiple-operator fume extractor, but do not need to use all two or four arms at all times, inlet plugs can be used to plug inlet ports and create stronger suction in the remaining flex arms.

A Model 400 Floor Sentry Quad is pictured above with two Endcaps

Other accessories include Variable Speed Controllers, Remote Speed Controller, Spill Trays for Ductless Fume Hoods, and Velometers.

These five steps should help to give you a general idea of what fume extractor may work best for your application and workspace.

If you would like to view more product options from Sentry Air, visit www.sentryair.com.

For assistance in choosing your customized fume extractor:

Call Us: 1.800.799.4609

Email Us: sales@sentryair.com

Fill Out This Form to Receive More Info: Click Here

Control of Methylene Chloride Vapors in the Workplace: Industrial Hygiene Report

2011-09-15T10:35:00.000-05:00

Control of Methylene Chloride Vapors in the Workplace

INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE REPORT

Date of test: July 27, 2011

Introduction

Methylene chloride (MC) is a volatile organic liquid that is often used as a solvent and paint remover or stripper in furniture refinishing. It is only slightly soluble in water and is not flammable. Methylene chloride has a boiling point of 39.6 degrees C or (103 degrees F). MC is less toxic than most chlorinated hydrocarbons; OSHA has established worker exposure limits of 25 ppm (8-hr. TWA) and 125 ppm STEL (15-minute, short-term exposure limit). It may be a carcinogen and should be handled with care to avoid skin contact and inhalation of vapors.

Purpose

The purpose of this experiment was to demonstrate the effectiveness of the Sentry Air Systems Model 300 Winged Sentry™ with Lid (WSL) in collecting and removing methylene chloride vapors produced by the evaporation of a measured amount of liquid MC. The Model 300 WSL was equipped with an activated charcoal filter. There are two WSL models available (Model SS-200 WSL and Model SS-300 WSL); the latter was used in this project.

The pictures above and below show the Model 300 Winged Sentry
during a similar chemical efficiency test

Discussion

Solvent vapors are best captured near their source and the Model 300 WSL is very efficient in capturing and removing MC vapor before it mixes with the surrounding workplace air. Methylene chloride that escapes into the room air can be a health concern for personnel since it has poor warning properties and air concentrations could exceed the recommended limit before its odor is detected. For purposes of this experiment a measured amount of liquid methylene chloride was distributed drop-wise from a burette onto several cotton balls placed in a shallow pan. The cotton provided a large surface area to facilitate the evaporation of the methylene chloride. When the Model 300 WSL was turned on, a stream of air was drawn across the cotton balls and into the Sentry fume extractor.

Experimental

On July 27, 2011, an activated carbon filter, which is generally employed for organics removal, was installed in the Model 300 WSL. The air flow rate with this filter was measured to be approximately 250 cfm (cubic feet per minute). 25.0 ml of methylene chloride was dispensed from a 50-ml burette and evaporated into the air stream over a 30-minute period. Air samples were collected during the experiment using SKC 226-001 sorbent tubes and batterypowered sampling pumps. The pumps were set to pull about 100 cc/min. and were pre- and post-calibrated. All personnel involved in the sampling project had available half-face, air-purifying respirators equipped with an organic vapor cartridge while methylene chloride was being handled. The operator also wore eye protection. Samples were taken at the inlet and outlet of the Model 300 WSL. A personal sample was collected on the operator and an area sample was obtained at a point approximately six feet from the operation. All samples, including a blank, were sent to an AIHA-certified laboratory for analysis using gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (OSHA Method 7).

Results: The sampling results are presented in the following table:

Results and Conclusions

1. The Sentry Air Systems SS-300-WSL unit did a good job of removing methylene chloride from the air in the experiment described herein. The calculated efficiency of removal was 92.6%.

2. The personal sample taken on the operator during the experiment was found to be 6.9 ppm of methylene chloride, compared with the OSHA exposure limit of 25 ppm. Assuming no further exposure to methylene chloride during the day, the 8-hr. TWA would have been 0.43 ppm.

3. The area sample was collected approximately six feet from the operation during the experiment. The area sample showed a concentration of 5.9 ppm of methylene chloride in the ambient air. Potential exposures, without regard to the use of a respirator, were found to be well below the OSHA workplace limit (PEL) for MC of 25 ppm.

4. It should be noted that methylene chloride vapors are not as strongly adsorbed on activated charcoal as many other organics because of MC’s relatively low molecular weight and small molecular structure. Sentry Air Systems recommends the use of activated carbon in the Model 300-WSL and in other Sentry Air System extractors in laboratories and other workplaces for the control of methylene chloride vapors. The Sentry Air Systems SS-300-WSL should be used as an auxiliary or backup system for intermittent use. Routine work with MC should be done in a standard hood vented to the outside.

If you have any questions or comments regarding this report, please contact me at 713-983-7910 or by e-mail at BobCIH@aol.com.

Respectfully submitted,

Robert F. Adams, Industrial Hygienist
RF Adams &Associates

NOTE: An MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) for methylene chloride as used in this project can be found at: http://www.soest.hawaii.edu/krubin/MSDS/dichloromethane.html

For more information on fume extraction that assists with the control of Methylene Chloride:

Call Sentry Air: 1.800.799.4609
Email Us: sales@sentryair.com
Fill Out This Form to Receive More Information

Visit the Data Page on our website to view more Industrial Hygiene Reports.

Ductless Fume Hood with Multiple Filter/Fan Unit Placement Options

2011-09-14T10:28:00.000-05:00

Does your Ductless Fume Hood need to meet certain height or design constraints?

Sentry Air offers an "detached filter/fan unit" configuration that is designed to allow the filter/fan unit (or air cleaner) to be placed either beside, behind, underneath the fume hood, or wall-mounted, as opposed to directly on top of the hood. The majority of fume hoods on the market do not allow for this kind of modification.

Benefits of this configuration:

Decreased hood height to fit under cabinets or other limited space environments.
Decreased sound level if the filter/fan unit is placed in cabinets underneath the fume hood.
Maintenance- Filter Replacement is easier because you don't have to remove filter housing from the top of the hood.
Air Volume Modification- standard blower sizes can be upgraded on detached models for increased air volume and filter capacity.

50" Wide Ductless Fume Hood

In the 50" Wide Ductless Fume Hood example pictured above, the total height of the system is 41.5" (including filter knobs at the very top) with the filter/fan unit situated on the top of the hood

When the filter/fan unit is removed, the hood is only 25" H.

50" Wide Ductless Fume Hood with unattached blower

The length of the flexible connecting hose is selected depending on a variety of factors, including air volume needs and workspace arrangement. Lengths can vary from 6 feet to 12 feet.

Filter Combinations

A variety of filter combinations are available for a wide selection of applications. Filter media options include:

HEPA Filters: 99.97% efficient on particles 0.3 microns and larger.
ASHRAE Filters: 95% efficient on particles 0.5 microns and larger.
ULPA Filters: 99.9995% efficient on particles 0.12 microns and larger.
Activated Carbon Filtration
Specialty-Blended Media: Mercury, Ammonia, Acid Gas, Aldehydes

The majority of Sentry Air's Air Cleaners are able to house multiple types of filters (i.e. HEPA & Activated Carbon) for applications that require both the removal of particulate and fume.

More Information

For more infomation on this detached filter/fan unit configuration or other custom design requests, give us a call at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information.

To view our gallery of other custom hood options, click here.

Pharmaceutical Powder Containment Hoods: A Presentation

2011-09-02T10:48:00.000-05:00

Those involved in the pharmaceutical industry are well aware of the potential side effects from exposure to certain hazardous drugs, hormones, and powders during compounding.Respiratory engineering controls should be established to assist in directing these airborne contaminants away from the operator's breathing zone.

Sentry Air Systems offers Powder Containment Hoods in a variety of sizes and configurations that can be easily installed into existing pharmacies or laboratories because of their portable and recirculating nature. In the presentation below, you'll find a detailed overview of Sentry Air's Ductless Powder Containment Hoods and Winged Sentrys (a uniquely designed powder containment system with adjustable side flaps).

Pharmaceutical Powder Containment Hoods

View more presentations from Sentry Air Systems, Inc.

Sentry Air's Compounding Containment Systems are ductless and recirculating, so external ducting or costly replacement air is not required. They are equipped with high-quality filtration media that captures hazardous airborne contaminants with the assistance of a powerful fan and vertical laminar flow pattern. HEPA filters are utilized most often and are up to 99.97% efficient on particles 0.3 microns and larger. ASHRAE filters are another option and are up to 95% efficient on particles 0.5 microns and larger.

This respiratory engineering control is designed to pull contaminants up and away from the respiratory zone of the operator:

A 40" Wide Pharmaceutical Containment Hood is pictured above

A Model 300 Winged Sentry is pictured above

For additional information on Pharmaceutical Compounding Containment Systems, please:

Call us at 1.800.799.4609
Email us at sales@sentryair.com
Fill out this form to receive additional information

Testimonial: Ductless Spray Paint Booth for Paints & Solvents

2011-08-29T11:56:00.000-05:00

"I purchased my Sentry Air Systems spray hood to control the fumes and particulates when spray painting custom radio controlled aircraft canopies. I use heavy duty automotive paint and solvents and the hood significantly reduces the odors and air borne particles. It is quiet and efficient and my clients can watch me in action in my paint studio thanks to this great air filtration system!! The sales team is top notch, just like the products they sell. Thanks for this superb solution to my air filtration needs!"

David Humphreys

Tallahassee, Florida

30" Wide Ductless Spray Hood Pictured Above [Model # SS-330-DSH]
Sentry Air Systems, Inc. Photograph. Not related to customer.

Another testimonial for repairing aircraft and aircraft simulator components [using a 40" Wide Ductless Spray Booth]:

"The ductless [spray] hood added a great degree of employee satisfaction. We were having issues with solvent odor/smell during spray painting.[...] Easy to assemble. Easy to use. Eliminated all vapor odor/smell that previously forced us to send some components off-site for painting."

30" Wide Ductless Spray Hood Pictured Above [Model # SS-330-DSH]
Sentry Air Systems, Inc. Photograph. Not related to customer.

Sentry Air Systems offers standard sized and custom-designed Benchtop Spray Hoods for use in controlling aerosol spray. These units are ductless and recirculating, so they do not require costly exterior ducting or replacement air. They are equipped with a unique internal spray filter and high-quality HEPA [up to 99.97% efficient on particles 0.3 microns and larger] and Activated Carbon filtration.

For more information, please call us at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information.

Additional Information:

What You Should Know About Hair Straightening Treatments & Possible Formaldehyde Exposure

2011-08-24T09:14:00.000-05:00

Take a look at our latest SlideShare presentation focusing on Brazilian Keratin Treatment, Brazilian Blowout, and other hair straightening procedures that may involve hazardous chemicals like formaldehyde. This presentation is designed for salon owners, stylists, and salon customers. It covers the following questions:

What are the ingredients of the hair straightening product I’m using?

What is formaldehyde? Why should I care about formaldehyde?

What regulations do I have to follow regarding formaldehyde?

How do I follow these regulations and keep my staff/self/customers safe?

Brazilian Keratin Treatment & Formaldehyde Exposure: What Do You Need to Know?

View more presentations from Sentry Air Systems, Inc.

For additional salon fume extraction information, please contact Sentry Air at 1.800.799.4609, email us at bktinfo@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information.

Chemical Case Study: Control of Diethyl Ether Vapors

2011-08-19T15:09:00.001-05:00

Control of Diethyl Ether in the Workplace
Industrial Hygiene Report

Introduction

Diethyl ether ("ether") is a colorless, very volatile, highly flammable organic solvent. It has been used as an anesthetic agent and it is also used as a fuel additive for diesel and gasoline engines. Its boiling point is 34.6 degrees C (94 degrees F) and it has a characteristic, sweetish odor. Ether is much less toxic than the common hydrocarbons (e.g., gasoline) and chlorinated hydrocarbons such as methylene chloride and carbon tetrachloride. OSHA has established an exposure limit of 400 ppm (8-hr. TWA). Ether should be handled with care to avoid skin contact and inhalation of vapors.

^Purpose

^{The purpose of this experiment was to demonstrate the effectiveness of the Sentry Air Systems Model 300 Winged Sentry™ with Lid (WSL) in collecting and removing diethyl ether vapors produced by the evaporation of a measured amount of liquid ether. The Model 300 WSL was equipped with an activated charcoal filter. There are two WSL models available (Model SS-200 WSL and Model SS-300 WSL); the latter was used in this project.}

This photo of the Model 300 Winged Sentry was taken
during a similar experiment

^Discussion

^S^{olvent vapors are best captured near their source and the Model 300 WSL is very efficient in capturing and removing ether vapor before it mixes and disperses into the surrounding workplace air. Diethyl ether vapors that escape into the room air can be a health concern for personnel since they can cause eye and respiratory tract irritation and at high levels, light-headedness and anesthesia. For purposes of this experiment a measured amount of liquid diethyl ether was distributed drop-wise from a burette onto several cotton balls placed in a shallow pan. The cotton provided a large surface area to facilitate the evaporation of the ether. When the Model 300 WSL was turned on, a stream of air was drawn across the cotton balls and into the Sentry fume extractor.

Experimental}

^{On July 27, 2011, an activated carbon filter, which is generally employed for organics removal, was installed in the Model 300 WSL. The air flow rate with this filter was set for approximately 250 cfm (cubic feet per minute). 25.0 ml of diethyl ether was dispensed from a 50-ml burette and evaporated into the air stream over a 30-minute period. Air samples were collected during the experiment using SKC 226-001 sorbent tubes and battery-powered sampling pumps. The pumps were set to pull about 100 cc/min. and were pre- and post-calibrated. All personnel involved in the sampling project were provided with half-face, air-purifying respirators equipped with an organic vapor cartridge while ether was being handled. The operator also wore eye protection. Samples were taken at the inlet and outlet of the Model 300 WSL. A personal sample was collected on the operator and an additional sample was taken of the room air in the vicinity of the operation. All samples, including a blank, were sent to an AIHA-certified laboratory and analyzed using gas chromatography and flame ionization detection (OSHA Method 7).

Results:}

^{The sampling results are presented in the following table:}

^{Results and Conclusions:}

^{The Sentry Air Systems SS-300-WSL unit did an excellent job of removing diethyl ether from the air in the experiment described herein. The calculated efficiency of removal was >99.7%.}

^{The personal sample taken on the operator during the experiment was found to be 1.7 ppm of diethyl ether, compared with the OSHA exposure limit of 400 ppm. Assuming no further exposure to ether during the day, the 8-hr. TWA would have been approximately 0.1 ppm.}

^{An area sample was collected approximately six feet from the operation during the experiment with diethyl ether. The odor of ether was noticeable in the ambient air. The area sample showed a concentration of 1.8 ppm of diethyl ether in the ambient air. The circulation of ambient air through the Sentry Air Systems extractor was effective in maintaining a low level of ether in the room air. Sentry Air Systems recommends the use of the Model 300-WSL equipped with an activated carbon filter for the control of diethyl ether vapors in laboratories and other workplaces.}

^{Care must be exercised not to exceed the capacity of the activated charcoal canister or to exceed the lower explosive limit of ether. The LEL of diethyl ether in air is reported1 to be 1.9% (19,000 ppm).

If you have any questions or comments regarding this report, please contact me at 713-983-7910 or by e-mail at BobCIH@aol.com.

This Industrial Hygiene Report was submitted by:

Robert F. Adams, Industrial Hygienist
RF Adams & Associates
[1] http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/explosive-concentration-limits-d_423.html

NOTE: An MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) for diethyl ether as used in this project can be found at:}

^{http://fscimage.fishersci.com/msds/90868.htm}

For additional information on fume and vapor control equipment for Diethyl Ether, please call Sentry Air at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form and an Applications Specialist will contact you with further information.

Additional Fume Extraction Configurations:

Welding, Manganese Fumes, and Related Negative Health Effects

2011-08-15T10:08:00.000-05:00

Manganese: Both Healthy & Toxic

Manganese, a naturally-occuring element, is a very important component for a variety of manufacturing and industrial operations, especially iron and steel production. It is also considered to be an essential nutrient for humans. It assists in a variety of bodily processes, including antioxidant function, metabolism, bone development, and wound healing [3]. It can be found in “pecans, peanuts, pineapple fruit and juice, oatmeal, shredded wheat, and raisin bran cereal. Good sources are beans (pinto, lima, navy), rice, spinach, sweet potato, and whole wheat bread” according to www.nutrimirror.com.

In a healthy individual with proper immune and organ function, normal amounts of ingested Manganese can be digested and disposed of with ease. [Visit the Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) of the Institute of Medicine website to search for Adequate Intake Amounts of Manganese].

Although Manganese is an essential nutrient for humans, it can become toxic at certain exposure levels; especially when Manganese fumes are inhaled. Instead of going through the body’s normal defense mechanisms, the fumes bypass them, accumulate, and subsequently damage vital organs like the lungs, liver, kidney and central nervous system according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). [1]

Short-term exposure may lead to metal fume fever, which symptoms include fever, chills, nausea, fatigue, muscle ache, joint pain, and thirst, among others. These symptoms usually resolve themselves within 24-48; however, long-term and chronic exposure to manganese fumes can lead to a disease called Manganism which has symptoms similar to those related to Parkinsons.

Manganism

Manganism (manganese poisoning) can develop from chronic exposure to manganese-containing fumes. Symptoms may include:

Tremors

Slowed Movement

Walking Problems

Shakes

Loss of Balance

Impotency

Slurred Speech

Extreme Drowsiness

Muscle Rigidity [1] [2]

Occupational Risk

Typical occupations that run the risk of overexposure to manganese fumes include workers in the following fields according to NIOSH:

Mining

Ore-Crushing

Metallurgical Operations for iron, steel, ferrous and nonferrous alloys

Manufacturing of:

Dry-cell batteries

Anti-knock gasoline additives

Pesticides

Pigments

Dyes

Inks

Welding Operations [1]
Other occupations that involve the release of manganese-containing fumes

Welding & Manganese

Workers can be exposed to Manganese fumes during a variety of welding operations; it is difficult to be specific because of differences in and multiple combinations of welding wire, fluxes, and base metals.

NIOSH explains that welders who work with lead, iron and manganese may be at increased risk for neurological health effects [They also note that "heat and stress can also contribute to neurological impairments in welders."] A recent study showed poorer performance on brain function and motor skill tests from welders who were exposed to low levels of Manganese (<0.2 mg/m³). Health effects also included “changes in mood and short-term memory, altered reaction time, and reduced hand-eye coordination. It is not known if these findings have clinical significance.” [1]

The chart below shows Occupational Exposure Limits for Manganese from NIOSH, OSHA, and ACGIH:

Occupational Exposure Limits for Manganese

Agency	Occupational Exposure Limit
NIOSH REL	1 mg/m³ (TWA) and 3 mg/m³ (STEL)
NIOSH IDLH	500 mg/m³
OSHA PEL	5 mg/m³ (ceiling)
ACGIH TLV	0.2 mg/m³(TWA)

IDLH: immediately dangerous to life and health concentration
PEL: permissible exposure limit
REL: recommended exposure limit
STEL: short-term exposure limit
TLV: threshold limit value
TWA: time-weighted average

[1]

Engineering Controls

Respirators and local exhaust ventilation, also known as fume extractors, (example shown below) are typically the recommended engineering controls for welding fume control; however, a Certified Industrial Hygienist should be consulted in order to determine the best safety approach based on the amount of fumes produced, materials involved, and environmental considerations. [See "Exposure Sources and Control Methods" on OSHA's webpage dedicated to Occupational Safety and Health Guideline for Welding Fumes for further information].

Local Exhaust Ventilation: Model 400 Welding Fume Extractor

Ductless Fume Hoods are another local exhaust option for applications that release manganese fumes and are performed on a small scale or limited space environment

For additional information on Local Exhaust Ventilation for Welding Fume Control, give Sentry Air a call at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information.

References

[1] "Welding and Manganese: Potential Neurologic Effects." NIOSH. <http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/welding/>

[2] "Welding and Manganese Poisoning". International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. <http://www.ibew.org/articles/03journal/030708/p8.htm>

[3] "Manganese". Linus Pauling Institute,Oregon State University <http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/minerals/manganese/>

Other Helpful Information:

NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards: Manganese compounds and fume (as Mn)>

"ToxFAQ's for Manganese". Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry. <http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxfaqs/tf.asp?id=101&tid=23>

*** This blog entry was written as a customer service and no representation is made as to the completeness or accuracy of the information it contains. Persons that believe they have been overexposed to manganese fumes should consult a healthcare physician or seek medical assistance. If you believe you are being exposed to these fumes in your workplace, consult a industrial safety officer or management team regarding this issue.

News: Industrial Fume Extraction Serving the Canadian Marketplace

2011-08-10T15:47:00.000-05:00

Sentry Air Systems is proud to announce that the company continues to grow and expand into the Canadian marketplace by providing fume extraction and industrial air quality solutions. Sales director Omar Ilsever made the following comment:

“We are always looking forward to growing in the Canadian marketplace. Canada is a fantastic country and we welcome clients from all Provinces and Territories. Sentry Air Systems is committed to providing solutions to those in the Great North! Although we do not have direct representation in the country, clients are able to call our applications specialists in the USA and speak directly to an experienced air quality specialist”.

www.sentryair.com

Sentry Air Systems has been providing air quality solutions in

Canada

for over a decade. Many of the applications have included: welding fume control, pharmaceutical powders, chemical fume extraction, soldering, spraypainting fumes, and various other industrial processes. Recently, the company has started to fully expand operations across most of the Provinces from East to West coast.

For more information on Sentry Air's fume extraction, air purification equipment, and special promotions for Canadian clients, give us a call at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information.

Fume Hoods for Fecal Sample Testing

2011-08-02T13:49:00.001-05:00

The importance of appropriate ventilation and filtration is apparent in several aspects of fecal sample testing: from odor to biohazards to the chemicals used during testing.

Sentry Air Systems 18" Wide Ductless Fume Hood is pictured above.

Fume Hoods are generally the most common configuration used for fecal sample testing because they offer the most containment. Sentry Air offers a variety of sizes of Ductless Fume Hoods, which utilize a recirculating air pattern that does require external ducting or costly replacement air. This ductless system is possible through the use of powerful fans and high-quality filtration media.

Filtration media is selected for fecal sampling based on the need of the customer and application. If the operator simply wants to remove the odor from the application, an Activated Carbon filter is installed; if the operator would like respiratory protection against airborne bacteria, a HEPA filter can also be installed in addition to the Carbon filter [HEPA filters are up to 99.97% efficient on particles 0.3 microns and larger]. Specialty-blended filter media [i.e. Acid Gas] is also available for those working with specific chemicals.

Other beneficial features of Sentry Air Ductless Fume Hoods include energy-efficiency, quiet performance, portability, and low maintenance operation.

Sentry Air offers 12", 18", 24", 30", 40", 50", 60", and 70" Wide Ductless Fume Hoods. Custom designed Fume Hoods are also available [consultation and design are complimentary services].

For more information on Fume Hoods for fecal sample testing or other laboratory processes, please call Sentry Air at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information.

Product Spotlight: ESD-Safe Solder Fume Extractor with Anti-Static Flex Arm

2011-07-28T10:44:00.000-05:00

The Stainless Steel Floor Sentry is ideal for those looking for a compact and lightweight ESD-safe solder fume extractor with source-capture flex arm. This fume extractor weighs approximately 8 lbs. and has a footprint of only 8" x 8" x 8.25". The anti-static, self-supportive source-capture arm is 43" L (3" diameter) and has a 6" wide hood.

This unit can easily be placed on the floor next to the work area or on the benchtop. The operator has complete control over the flex arm and can place it in the most effective position for capturing solder fumes.

This highly efficient unit is designed to help protect the respiratory zone of the operator by capturing solder fumes at the source of emission. They are quickly pulled through the flexible arm and in to the filter chamber, which is typically comprised of HEPA filtration [up to 99.97% efficient on particles 0.3 microns and larger], but can vary depending on the nature of the application.

Additional Information on Solder Fume Extractors & Solder Fume Hazards:

If you would like additional information, please contact Sentry Air at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information.

Collodion Adhesive: Possible Health Effects & Fume Extraction Recommendations

2011-07-25T15:42:00.001-05:00

Collodion, a combination of nitrocellulose, ethyl ether, and ethanol, is a substance that is used for attaching electrodes to the head during EEG’s (Electroencephalography). EEG’s are performed for a variety of medical reasons and are a primary research and diagnostic tool regarding electrical activity in the brain.

Electrodes must securely be attached to the scalp in order to be effective. A manufacturer of Collodion explains that “Once the electrode is attached correctly monitoring can be performed continuously for days even if the patient is active and perspires.” [1]

The above picture is a still shot from a video demonstrating how Collodion works. The picture shows electrode gel being put into the electrode that has been attached with Collodion. Watch the video by Mavidonmedia here: http://youtu.be/fVbEAgZUQUE

Some medical professionals believe that Collodion may cause a respiratory health concern because of the evaporation and subsequent fumes of one of its main ingredients: ethyl ether.

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) describes ethyl ether as “a clear, colorless liquid with a characteristic, sweet ether odor. The air odor threshold concentration for ethyl ether is 8.9 parts per million (ppm) parts of air.” [2]

OSHA also cites the following information:

Toxicology. Effects on Humans:

Ethyl ether has been used to produce surgical anesthesia in humans; the concentration that is needed to induce anesthesia in humans ranges from 100,000 to 150,000 ppm. After anesthesia has been induced, it is maintained at about 50,000 ppm because respiratory arrest may occur at higher concentrations [Hathaway et al. 1991]. At 200 ppm, mild nasal irritation occurs, and at 2,000 ppm, dizziness may be experienced [ACGIH 1991; Hathaway et al. 1991]. Brief exposures of the eyes to the liquid or to high vapor concentrations produced burning but no injury. Prolonged exposure may cause temporary corneal epithelial injury [Grant 1986]. Prolonged skin contact can cause burns. Ethyl ether is also a defatting agent, and repeated exposure may cause skin drying and cracking [Genium 1988]. [2]

Signs and Symptoms of Exposure:

1. Acute exposure: Ethyl ether causes a wide range of effects depending on the concentration and length of exposure. Symptoms include irritation of the nose and eyes, dizziness, acute excitement, drowsiness, vomiting, paleness, decreased pulse rate, decreased body temperature, irregular respiration, muscle relaxation, lung irritation with increased bronchial secretions, laryngospasm, loss of consciousness, and death [Clayton and Clayton 1982]. Post-narcosis effects include excessive salivation, vomiting, headaches, and irritation of the respiratory tract [Clayton and Clayton 1982].

2. Chronic exposure: Long-term exposure of the skin to ethyl ether may cause dermatitis. [2]

Exposure Limits:

OSHA’s permissible exposure limit (PEL) for ethyl ether is 400 ppm as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). The American Conference of Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) also has a threshold limit value (TLV) of 400ppm for an 8-hour workday/40-hour work week and has a short-term exposure limit (STEL) of 500 ppm per 15 minutes. [2]

OSHA also lists the following methods for controlling exposure to ethyl ether:

Process Enclosure

Local Exhaust Ventilation- [Example: The Sentry Air Medical Fume Extractor]

General Dilution Ventilation

Personal Protective Equipment [2]

Mavidon, a manufacturer and distributor of Collidion, provides these additional approaches to the reduce exposure to ethyl ether fumes:

"Reducing the amount use: By applying collodion in tubes directly on the electrode sight you will be using only what you need, instead of dipping a gauze in a bowl on the tray/table."
Using an exhaust fan.
Portable Fume Extractor System [Example: The Sentry Air Medical Fume Extractor]
Ozone Generator to dissipate the ethyl ether fumes in a room. [1]

Air quality sampling during Collodion use should be administered by a Certified Industrial Hygienist. For more information on Local Exhaust Ventilation options, call Sentry Air at 1.800.799.4609, email at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information.

References:

[1] "Collodion Safety Guideline". Mavidon Medical Supplies. <www.mvapmed.com/MSDS_Forms/CollodionSafety.pdf >

[2] "Occupational Safety and Health Guideline for Ethyl Ether". Occupational Safety & Health Administration. <http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/healthguidelines/ethylether/recognition.html>

Metal Fume Fever

2011-07-20T16:29:00.000-05:00

Welder’s ague, zinc shakes, Monday fever, brass founders’ ague, and smelter chills are just a few of the names that metal fume fever has been referred to over the years [it was first documented in the mid-1800s]. [1]

This occupational illness is typically seen in workers that weld, cut or heat metal materials; specifically zinc. When zinc-coated metal [i.e. galvanized steel] is heated up, it can release zinc oxide fumes, which can be inhaled by the welder if respiratory precautions are not taken. Although zinc is cited most frequently in conjunction with this illness, there are other metals that have been documented as inducing metal fume fever symptoms [ex. copper, manganese, chromium, arsenic, magnesium, nickel, titanium, boron]. [1]

The graph below, from the Metal Fume Fever: A Review of the Literature and Cases Reported to the Louisiana Poison Control Center, shows (A) the most commonly reported occupation and (B) Medical Treatment sought for 26 cases of metal fume fever over a two year period reported to the Louisiana Poison Control Center. [1]

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of metal fume fever generally mimic flu-like symptoms. They are cited as occurring within approximately 3-10 hours after inhaling fumes. A report published by The Journal of the Louisiana State Medical Society cites the following symptoms:

Fever

Chills

Nausea

Fatigue

Muscle Ache

Joint Pain

Thirst

“The initial symptoms include a sweet metallic taste associated with throat irritation, dyspnea [shortness of breath] and thirst followed by chills, a low-grade fever, myalgia [muscle pain], arthralgias [joint pain], malaise, fatigue, and a nonproductive cough.” [1]

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration cites similar symptoms:

“Symptoms of metal fume fever are very similar to those of common influenza. They include fever (rarely exceeding 102° F), chills, nausea, dryness of the throat, couch, fatigue, and general weakness and aching of the head and body. The victim may sweat profusely for a few hours, after which the body temperature begins to return to normal.” [2]

Because these systems are very generic and could be easily mistaken for a variety of other illnesses, it is important to discuss your occupational history with your physician.

The figure below, from the Metal Fume Fever: A Review of the Literature and Cases Reported to the Louisiana Poison Control Center, graphs the most commonly reported symptoms in a survey of individuals who developed metal fume fever after a workplace exposure [March 2004- March 2006].

How long do symptoms last?

Symptoms should resolve within 24-48 hours, while it may take another one or two days to recover from a short-term tolerance to zinc fumes. Overall, four days is cited as the time frame in which one should fully recover. [1]

The long-term health effects of repeated bouts of metal fume fever and zinc oxide fume exposure are inconclusive. Some medical professionals theorize that repeated exposure may later develop into Occupational Asthma; however, this has not been proved. Others suggest that metal fume fever presents “reversible respiratory symptom[s]”, which do not result in long-term lung damage. [1]

What specifically causes metal fume fever?

The specific cause of metal fume fever is also not fully understood; however, a cytokine-mediated immune response is thought to be involved. Collective data shows an increase in levels of certain cytokines in the lungs of exposed individuals that are most likely the result of stimulation of pulmonary macrophages by the metal fume. [1]

Treatment

A report published by The Journal of the Louisiana State Medical Society describes the following as treatment of metal fume fever:

“Treatment of mild MFF consists of bed rest and symptomatic therapy (eg, analgesics, oxygen therapy, and antipyretics) as indicated. Corticosteroids have not been shown to be of any benefit.”

*If you believe that you have been overexposed to zinc oxide fumes; seek the help of a medical professional.

Prevention of Overexposure to Welding Fumes

Avoid Direct Contact with Fumes.

Improve Safety Engineering Controls- specifically Local Exhaust Ventilation.

Click Here for examples of Source-Capture Welding Fume Extractors.

Use NIOSH-approved Respirators.

Educate Welders and other workers on the hazards of welding fume.

Follow Government Regulations for Zinc Oxide Fumes.

OSHA Regulations- See Exposure Limits.

NIOSH Regulations (PDF)

References

[1] Palermo, Christime & Syed Atif Ahsan, Michelle Lackovic, Adrienne Katner., “Metal Fume Fever: A Review of Literature and Cases Reported to the Louisiana Poison Control Center”. Journal of the Louisiana State Medical Society. 2009. , <http://www.dhh.state.la.us/offices/publications/pubs-205/Metal_Fume_Fever_LSMS_article.pdf>

[2] Welding Health Hazards”. Occupational Safety & Health Administration. <http://www.osha.gov/doc/outreachtraining/htmlfiles/weldhlth.html>

*** This blog entry was written as a customer service and no representation is made as to the completeness or accuracy of the information it contains. Persons that believe they have been overexposed to zinc oxide fumes should consult a healthcare physician or seek medical assistance. If you believe you are being exposed to these fumes in your workplace, consult a industrial safety officer or management team regarding this issue.

Customized: Ductless Fume Hood with "Lazy Susan"

2011-07-15T10:43:00.000-05:00

At Sentry Air Systems, we receive a wide variety of requests for additions and custom modifications to our standard line of Ductless Fume Hoods so they more appropriately meet the requirements of certain applications. We thought that the following request seemed quite useful, so we wanted to share:

Ductless Fume Hood with "Lazy Susan"

This particular customer wanted a rotating tray, or "Lazy Susan", within their Ductless Fume Hood to accommodate and easily access various parts for cleaning [this cleaning process releases particulate, which is quickly sucked up by the Fume Hood's powerful fan and delivered into the filtration system]. They also specified that they wanted a 40" Wide Hood.

40" Ductless Fume Hood with "Lazy Susan"

In order to meet the "Lazy Susan" size requirements requested by the customer, the depth of the 40" Ductless Fume Hood had to be expanded. Our standard 40" Ductless Fume Hood has an interior depth of 23.5". The depth of this hood was expanded to 38" to accommodate the 34" diameter "Lazy Susan". Overall interior dimensions are 40"W x 38"D x 24"H.

The filtration system on this unit is composed of a MERV 8 pre-filter and a high-quality HEPA filter [up to 99.97% efficient on particles 0.3 microns or larger]. Other options are available depending on the application and include Activated Carbon Filtration, ASHRAE and ULPA filters, and specialty-blended filter media for applications involving acid gas, ammonia, aldehydes, and mercury.

For more information on this custom modification or other possible options, call Sentry Air at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information.

Also, take a look at the Custom Hood page on our company website to see other examples of custom designs.

Solder Fume Health Hazards & Fume Extraction Equipment Recommendations

2011-07-01T15:47:00.005-05:00

Take a look at our newest presentation below: It discusses the potential hazards of solder fume inhlalation as well as possible respiratory engineering controls for soldering applications [i.e. benchtop, wall-mounted, floor, portable fume extraction equipment]:

Hazards of Solder Fume & Fume Extraction Equipment Recommendations

View more presentations from Sentry Air Systems, Inc.

For further information on solder fume extraction, call Sentry Air at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information.

Happy Fourth of July!

2011-07-01T15:00:00.000-05:00

Have a Safe and Happy Fourth of July Weekend!

Epoxy Fume Control in Clean Rooms

2011-06-21T09:07:00.003-05:00

In keeping with this month’s blog theme of Fume Control in Clean Rooms, we would like to discuss epoxy fume containment in clean rooms.

Many applications require epoxy use in clean rooms, including electrical applications (e.g. coating), medical devices, testing equipment, and more.

Aside from possibly compromising the integrity of the clean room with epoxy vapors, there are ill health effects associated with the inhalation of epoxy fumes. Borrowed from one of our previous blog entries about the Hazards of Epoxy Fumes, here are some possible health effects:

Respiratory Harm

When epoxy fumes are inhaled, they can affect the nose, throat, and lungs. Most symptoms from the inhalation of epoxy involve inflammation and therefore irritation of the nose, throat, and lungs. Repetitive and high amounts of exposure to these fumes can result in sensitization and asthma.

When dust from partially cured epoxy is inhaled, the particles become trapped in the mucus lining of the respiratory system and can cause serious health problems. According to West System, a leading epoxy manufacturer, this dust should never be inhaled. [2]

Sensitization and Asthma

Sensitization, in this case, is the state of being allergic to epoxy. Sensitization can occur at any point, regardless of how many times or for how long you’ve been exposed to epoxy. Your chances of being sensitized will increase if you’re exposed to a greater amount of fumes in an unventilated area, but even one episode of exposure can lead to an allergic reaction. This is why preventative safety is so important in regard to epoxy. Once sensitized, even small amounts of the substance can trigger allergic reactions and it will be increasingly difficult to work with the material. There is also no definite cure for sensitization, only methods to relieve the symptoms. [2]

According to MayoClinic.com, sensitization from irritant exposure in the workplace can be classified as Occupational Asthma, which is defined as “asthma that’s caused or worsened by breathing in a workplace irritant, such as chemical fumes, gases or dust. Like other types of asthma, occupational asthma can cause symptoms, such as chest tightness, wheezing and shortness of breath.” [3] Also according to MayoClinic.com, two of the “High Risk Occupations” for developing occupational asthma are Adhesive Handlers and Users of Plastics and Epoxy Resins, among many others. [3]

For further information on Occupational Asthma: Read our blog entry on Occupational Asthma or Visit http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/occupationalasthma/index.html or http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/occupational-asthma/DS00591

Source-Capture Fume Extractors & Filtration Media

The filter media utilized when extracting chemical fumes from epoxy typically consists of activated carbon. Sentry Air Systems also utilizes a post-filter which is a high-quality HEPA filter that traps particles being released from the carbon filter. Granule carbon filtration media will have a very small amount of carbon dust that is generated during the filtration process. In non-sterile environments this is not an issue since the micron size is so small and is often not visible to the naked eye. However, inside a clean room where the particle detectors are continuously monitoring the air quality, this can hurt the integrity of the clean room and potentially set-off the monitors.

Some researchers suggest using block carbon filtration media, which is said to have less or no dusting. Recently we tested block carbon filtration and found that it was generating more particles than our standard granule filtration media. This experiment was conducted using a laser particle scanner at the outlet of both our system and a leading competitor who solely uses block carbon. The Sentry Air System combined with activated carbon filtration and a HEPA filter recorded 0 particles at 0.3 microns and larger, while the competitor's unit was recording several hundred particles at the same micron size.

Similar to the fume extraction options that we discussed in our last blog entry about solder fume extraction in clean rooms; the same kind of equipment can be used for the control of epoxy fume and vapors:

Ductless Fume Hoods

Ductless Fume Hoods provide a negative-pressure benchtop enclosure in which operators can perform their application. The powerful fan located at the top of unit quickly pulls airborne fumes into the patented filtration system. Air is filtered as it passes through the filtration system, which is typically comprised of a high-quality HEPA Filter or Activated Carbon Filter, and is then recirculated back into the immediate area, so there is no need for external venting or make-up air. Sentry Air offers several different sizes including 12", 18", 24", 30", 40", 50", 60", 70" wide and custom options.

Pictured above is a 40" Wide Ductless Fume Hood

Of all source-capture options, this configuration is typically the most effective because of the enclosed containment it offers; however, there are other options that can work just as efficiently:

Portable and Wall-Mounted Options

Mobile source-capture fume extractors are also a popular choice for epoxy fume removal. These units sit on heavy-duty casters and reach the work area via self-supportive flexible arm. These flex arms effectively capture fumes and deliver them into the filtration system. Like Ductless Fume Hoods, these systems also use HEPA or Carbon filtration and a recirculating air pattern. Sentry Air's Portable Floor Sentry is a good example of this:

Sentry Air's Model 300 Portable Floor Sentry is pictured above.

Wall-Mounted fume extractors, similar in construction to the above mobile unit, are great options for those that have limited space and would rather have their filtration system installed on the wall and hovering over their work area. The Sky Sentry is a good example of this configuration:

Sentry Air's Model 200 Sky Sentry is pictured above.

For more information on fume extraction options that can be utilized with clean rooms, please call a Sentry Air Systems Applications Specialist at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information.

Industrial Downdraft Tables

2011-06-16T15:49:00.001-05:00

Downdraft tables can be a simple and effective source-capture fume extraction solution for applications such as solvent vapor control, solder fumes, light grinding, epoxy fume control, sanding, buffing, brazing, spray paint, powder control, and a variety of other industrial applications. These durable units are designed to pull harmful airborne contaminants away from the respiratory zone of the operator and into the patented filtration system.

Sentry Air’s downdraft tables are equipped with powerful air cleaners in order to create a negative-pressure workspace that is effective in collecting fumes, dust, and smoke. These air cleaners are available in two different models: The Model 400 (capable of 700 CFM) and the Model 450 (capable of 950 CFM). These units are equipped with filtration media that is most effective for the application being performed. Options include HEPA filtration [up to 99.97% efficient on particles 0.3 microns and larger], ASHRAE filtration [95% efficient on particles 0.5 microns and larger], Activated Carbon, and specialty-blended media (e.g. Acid Gas, Aldehydes, Ammonia, Mercury).

Sentry Air Systems downdraft tables are recirculating, so they don't require costly exhaust systems or make-up air.

Standard sizes are 30" and 40" wide. Custom options are also available and can be discussed with a Sentry Air Systems Applications Specialist.

For more information, view our Downdraft Table product webpage, contact Sentry Air Systems at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form for more information.

Air Purification & Fume Extraction Equipment for Medical Applications

2011-06-14T12:17:00.000-05:00

Sentry Air Systems offers a variety of air purification and fume extraction units for use in the medical field. These systems incorporate high-quality filtration media [e.g. HEPA, ULPA, ASHRAE, Activated Carbon, Speciality-Blended Filter Media], energy efficiency, and modularity that allows these systems to be adapted to changing environments. Particular application examples might include use in:

Dental Labs
Pathology Labs
Orthopedic Labs
Clean Room Applications
Critical-Care Facilities
General Air Purification
Bone Marrow Transplant Units
Hematology ICUs
Respiratory Sensitivities
Microbiology Labs
Laser Surgery Fume & Odor
Pharmacies
and More.

Air Purification & Fume Extraction for Medical Applications- Sentry Air Systems

View more presentations from SentryAirSystems.

For more information on Sentry Air's Medical Air Purification Equipment, please call us at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information.

Ambient Air Cleaner for Welding Shops

2011-06-10T13:00:00.000-05:00

Although source-capture fume extractors are a very effective respiratory engineering control for welding operations (an example is pictured below), it is also wise to consider a complementary ambient air cleaner with high air volume and high-quality filtration media to capture any smoke or particulate that may escape from welding operations or other processes occurring in your shop.

Sentry Air's Model 400 Welding Fume Extractor is pictured above

Sentry Air's Free-Hanging Industrial Air Cleaner [Model # SS-2000-FH] is a self-contained and recirculating air cleaning system that does not require ducting of any kind. It can be suspended from the ceiling in the most effective position based on the arrangement of your shop. Depending on a variety of factors (building size, ceiling height & area, shape, contaminant generation rate, types of contaminants, existing air flow conditions, physical conditions, desired particulate count, etc.), it may be beneficial to install more than one ambient air cleaner.

This unit also features two-speed operation control, a four-way adjustable grill, and a low-maintenance filtration system.

The Model SS-2000-FH Free-Hanging Air Cleaner is pictured above.

In-House factory testing in a 40,800 ft3 workshop in Houston, TX indicated an 87% reduction in airborne particulate after 50 minutes with two model SS-2000-FH units. The dual-stage filtration system is composed of a pre-filter, which effectively removes particles 3 microns and larger at an efficiency* of up to 70%, while the main bag filter captures submicron particles 0.3 microns and larger at an efficiency* of up to 85%. *According to ASHRAE Standard 52.2

Industrial Ambient Air Cleaners are also good options for workshops that perform sanding, buffing, automotive refinishing, woodworking, grinding applications, and other processes that produce smoke, dust, and certain fumes.

For assistance in choosing an air cleaning/fume extraction unit, or combination of units, that will help to improve air quality in your welding shop, please call Sentry Air at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form for more information.

Indoor Air Quality

2011-06-08T11:02:00.000-05:00

As summer approaches and temperatures and humidity increase, we are seeing more and more Outdoor Air Quality Alerts. It is important to stay aware of these outdoor alerts (Try accessing the following websites to stay up-to-date on Air Quality in your area: www.airnow.gov, www.weather.gov/aq/, & Local News Stations ), but to also consider indoor air quality (at home and at work), which can be as bad or even worse than outdoor air quality. It's important to consider outdoor airborne contaminants that make their way inside, as well as contaminants that are produced by home or work-related processes and substances. Listed below are a few of our past blog posts to help keep you informed:

"Particulate Matter: The Basics" - this blog entry discusses particle pollution and how it can affect you, indoors and outdoors.

"Awareness: Occupational Asthma"- this blog entry discusses Occupational Asthma, which can be caused by a variety of indoor airborne contaminants in the workplace.

"Air Quality News: Secondhand Smoke"- news on the health effects of secondhand smoke; a prevalent indoor air contaminant.

"Indoor Air Dangers, Simple Solutions to a Serious Issue"- a guest blog post regarding home air quality and the hazards of asbestos.

Specialized Content that Covers Specific Work-Related Hazards:

"The Hazards of Welding Smoke"

"Hazards of Epoxy Fumes"

"Laser Fume Extraction"- discusses possible health effects associated with laser fumes.

"The Hazards of Solder Fumes"

"The Hazards of Formaldehyde Fumes"

"Reducing Hazardous Exposure to Organic Solvents"

What do you think is the best way to improve indoor air quality?

For more blog entries, take a look at our Blog Archive on the right-hand side of the page.

Solder Fume Extraction in Clean Rooms

2011-06-01T11:26:00.000-05:00

There are many applications within the laboratory, technological, medical and manufacturing sectors that require personnel to work within clean rooms. Clean rooms are designed to create an environment with low levels of particle pollution (dust, aerosol particles, chemical vapors, etc.). Levels of room cleanliness vary based on the need of the facility or application and are classified depending on the number and size of particles per unit of air volume.

In some instances, hazardous airborne particles and fumes need to be introduced within the clean room to accomplish certain tasks. One example of this is soldering on PC boards inside clean rooms. This application is especially prevalent in the technological field, and specifically electronic manufacturing and research, which requires the need to create a dust-free environment.

Because large clean rooms may take a significant amount of time to flush solder fumes from the room, it may be wise to consider purification options that will rid fumes at the source of emission so they don’t compromise the clean room:

Source-Capture Fume Extractors

There are several source-capture configurations available for the removal of solder fumes; all of which have the same attributes:

A Powerful Source-Capture Function
High-Quality Filtration Media

In order for a fume extraction unit to be effective for use in clean rooms, it not only has to have a powerful and efficient source-capture function, but also high-quality and well-manufactured filter media. Like clean rooms, source-capture fume extractors for clean rooms should utilize HEPA or ULPA filtration. HEPA filters are up to 99.97% efficient on particles 0.3 microns and larger, while ULPA filters are up to 99.9995% efficient on particles 0.12 microns and larger. Aside from efficiency, other things to consider are the capture zone (i.e. how close the operator can position the inlet to the contaminated air source) and cross drafts that may be present in the clean room that could affect the airflow pattern.

A popular option for source-capture fume extraction in clean rooms are Ductless Fume Hoods.

Ductless Fume Hoods

Ductless Fume Hoods provide a negative-pressure benchtop enclosure in which operators can solder [Sentry Air offers several different sizes including 12", 18", 24", 30", 40", 50", 60", 70" wide and custom options]. The powerful fan situated at the top of unit quickly pulls airborne fumes into the patented filtration system, which is typically comprised of a high-quality HEPA Filter. Air is filtered as it passes through the filtration system and is then recirculated back into the immediate area, so there is no need for external venting or make-up air.

A 40" Wide Ductless Fume Hood is pictured above

Of all source-capture options, this configuration is typically the most effective because of the enclosed containment it offers; however, there are other viable options that may work more efficiently for your facility:

Portable and Wall-Mounted Options

Mobile source-capture fume extractors are also a popular choice for solder fume removal. These systems typically feature a flexible source-capture arm that can be placed directly next to your soldering project. Sentry Air's Portable Floor Sentry is a good example of this:

The Model 300 Portable Floor Sentry is pictured above.

These systems utilize a flexible hose to effectively capture fumes and deliver them into the filtration system. Like Ductless Fume Hoods, these systems also use HEPA filtration and a recirculating air pattern.

The Model 200 Sky Sentry is pictured above

Keep your eyes open for more blog entries this month pertaining to fume and chemical extraction within clean rooms.

Reducing Hazardous Exposure to Organic Solvents

2011-05-23T13:22:00.000-05:00

According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA), the “health hazards associated with solvent exposure include toxicity to the nervous system, reproductive damage, liver and kidney damage, respiratory impairment, cancer, and dermatitis.” [1]

What is a Solvent?

A Solvent is any substance (solid, liquid, or gas) that can dissolve another solid, liquid, or gas (called a solute) to form a solution. A solution is more than a mixture of two different substances because the solvent and solute will have chemical interactions that link them together based on their respective chemical properties. Whereas the individual components of a mixture can be separated by means of mechanical filtration, solvents cannot. When referred to in industrial applications, a solvent is usually a liquid Organic Solvent. Organic solvents are carbon-based and used to dissolve solids, liquids and gases. There are many strong organic solvents that will dissolve (or “attack”) many solid materials, including unwanted residues making them useful in a variety of applications such as:

• in paints, inks, varnishes, lacquers and other coatings
• as cleaners and degreasers
• in paint strippers
• in glues, adhesives and spray products
• as refrigerants and coolants
• in dry cleaning
• in nail polish removers
• in detergents
• numerous other places at work and at home [2]

Common solvents include:

• Acetone
• Toluene
• Benzene
• Ethyl Acetate
• Ethanol
• Methanol
• Xylene
• MEK (Methyl Ethyl Ketone)
• Acetic Acid
• Hexane
• Petroleum Ether
• Methylene Chloride

It should be noted that care should be taken when using and storing these solvents because of their strong dissolving properties. Some plastic storage bins can and will be attacked and disintegrated by many of organic solvents.

General Solvent Safety

The most important thing to remember about organic solvent safety is that they present a significant flammability hazard. Consequently, great care should be taken during storage and handling of organic solvents, especially large quantities of organic solvents. Storage drums should be well grounded to prevent any spark from igniting the liquid, electrical devices used in areas of high usage should be intrinsically safe, and there should be absolutely no smoking around these chemicals. When “hot work” needs to be done in an area of high solvent use, permits must be obtained and the area must be cleared of all solvents and ventilated before work can begin. Furthermore, there should be engineering controls in place to ventilate storage areas and places of high usage in case of spills that would produce extremely flammable mixtures in the air.

Furthermore, besides the flammability considerations, there are other accepted workplace practices that should be implemented when dealing with organic solvents. The California Department of Health Services and the California Department of Industrial Relations (HESIS) recommend basic safe work procedures to avoid overexposure to solvents. Some of these include:

• Don’t wash your hands with solvent.
• Use proper personal protection equipment (ppe) when working with solvents. This will keep solvents off your skin and clothes- if clothes do get wet with solvent; change clothes right away.
• Use the minimal amount of solvent necessary for your application.
• Cover or seal solvent-filled containers when they are not in use. Also contain solvent-soaked items, like used rags.
• Keep areas properly ventilated: make sure fans and exhaust systems are turned on when solvents are used.
• Storage- Always label organic solvent containers.
• Never enter a confined space with the proper PPE and respiratory equipment that are (or could potentially be) contaminated with solvents.
• Label and store solvent waste appropriately. [2]

Respiratory Solvent Safety

Inhalation of solvent vapors and mists is one of the most common ways of being overexposed to solvents. Vapors form as solvents evaporate. Additionally, mist can be inhaled during solvent spraying applications. When these mist and vapors are inhaled, they are absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs.

The Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) of solvents should always be referenced prior to handling and using the chemical. Let's use Acetone as example:

Acetone is a commonly used solvent. Under "Potential Health Effects" by Inhalation, the MSDS notes that "Inhalation of vapors irritates the respiratory tract. May cause coughing, dizziness, dullness, and headache. Higher concentrations can produce central nervous system depression, narcosis, and unconsciousness." [3]

Although chemical composition varies from solvent to solvent, it is important to consider respiratory safety engineering controls for all solvent use.

What to Consider When Choosing a Ventilation System

Regarding ventilation as a safety engineering control, HESIS explains that “fans are most effective when they remove vapors at the source, by pulling the air away from the work.” For instance, a fan or fume extraction device that is placed at the opposite end of the room from the chemical and operator will do very little to prevent the operator from inhaling fumes, especially if it is a large quantity. As an additional example, placing an overhead hood over an operator working with solvents would do little to minimize his/her exposure as the air would be pulled right through the breathing zone.

Source-capture fume extractors (or local exhaust ventilation) come in a variety of configurations. Depending on a variety of factors, one model may work better for one person over another. There are several variables that should be considered when choosing an appropriate ventilation system for your operation.

Quantity- The amount of solvent that is being used is one of the most important factors in deciding on a ventilation system. For instance, for someone that utilizes large amounts of solvent, an Exterior-Ducting Exhaust Hood may be used. Most organic vapor filter cartridges only absorb a fraction of their weight, so a 10lb filter could absorb at most 4lbs of vapor. For high use applications, this amount of vapor could be reached after a day’s use. Consequently, using a ducted exhaust hood where the vapors could be vented to either a large scrubber, incinerator, or the outside would be optimal. Small amounts of solvent may require less air volume to remove. For those that use smaller amounts of solvent, ventilation options like the Winged Sentry with Lid (this benchtop unit has infinitely adjustable side "wing flaps" for operator control) and Portable Floor Sentry exist (this unit sits on the floor and reaches benchtops via self-supportive flex hose). These two units are equipped with activated carbon filtration.

A 30" Wide Ducted Exhaust Hood is pictured above.

The Model 200 Winged Sentry with Lid is pictured above.

The Model 300 Portable Floor Sentry is pictured above.

Type- Equally as important as the quantity of the solvent is the type of solvent. Since we are discussing organic solvents then an organic vapor cartridge (such as activated carbon) would nearly always be appropriate. The exceptions are very light molecular weight solvents such as methylene chloride, methanol, formaldehyde, ethyl ether, and even ethanol to an extent. Whereas treated organic vapor filters exist for formaldehyde and other light aldehydes, none such specialized filters exist for other light solvents. Therefore, ductless hoods (with filtration media) would not be appropriate for these types of solvents.

A Certified Industrial Hygienist or Safety Engineer should be consulted when developing a ventilation system for solvent control. For information on individual products that can be used for these systems (including the ones mentioned above), please call Sentry Air Systems at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information.

References

[1] OSHA. Safety & Health Topics: Solvents. <http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/solvents/index.html>

[2] HESIS Guide to Solvent Safety. <http://www.cdph.ca.gov/programs/hesis/Documents/SolventSafety.pdf>

[3] J.T. Baker. MSDS for Acetone. <http://www.jtbaker.com/msds/englishhtml/a0446.htm>

Product Announcement: Model 500 Heavy-Duty Fume Extractor

2011-05-20T16:06:00.027-05:00

The Model 500 Fume Extractor is engineered for applications that require heavy-duty fume extraction and industrial air purification. Two filtration configurations are available for this model and are appropriate for a variety of applications:

Option 1

Heavy-Duty Portable Fume Extractor with Micro-Pleat Series 1 Particulate Filters

Model # SS-500-BU-MP1

The Model 500 Micro-Pleat Fume Extractor is equipped with cleanable Micro-Pleat Series 1 Particulate Filters and is designed for applications such as production welding (MIG, TIG, Stick, Plasma Cutting), some dust collection applications, powder weighing, grinding, multiple operator fume extraction (classroom settings, multiple soldering, welding, and brazing stations), and more. This unit is capable of providing up to 1300 CFM of air volume and is available in various source-capture configurations.

Model 500 with 11' x 8" Flexible Arm & Hood

Model 500 with "Python-Style" 12' x 6" Flexible Hose

Reverse pulse solutions, particularly in heavy-duty welding applications, wet smoke, wet particulate, and humid environments, are criticized for their inability to clean their filters. Moderate and long-term filter maintenance necessitate constant pulsing or even frequent filter replacements. After carefully choosing our proprietary MERV 16 filtration media, we spent months welding under the harshest of environments with sticky flux core wire and Houston humidity in an uncontrolled/non-conditioned shop workplace. The results were outstanding! After 2000 lbs of sticky, wet, flux wire in 80%+ humidity, the unit and its filters were still going strong after only 3 filter cleanings – that is less than 30 minutes of filter maintenance in 4 months of full-time welding.

The Particulate Filters in the Model 500 system are engineered to be easily cleaned with the use of pressurized air. This form of self-contained cleaning does not require removal of the filters; the operator simply sprays air into the filter media to clean and rejuvenate the filters while excess dust and waste falls to the internal dust pan, allowing for simple and clean debris removal. The included magnehelic gage is an excellent tool for determining filter saturation. Once the pressure levels begin to increase, the operator can clean the filters and the pressure reduction will be noted on the gage.

Option 2

Heavy-Duty Portable Fume Extractor with Activated Carbon Filtration

Model # SS-500-BU-240

The Model 500 is also available with 240 lbs. of Activated Carbon Filtration and is designed for applications including chemical fume control, epoxy and solvent fume removal, multiple operator fume extraction, and processes involving VOC’s. This model is capable of providing up to 1100 CFM of air volume.

The extensive amount of activated carbon filtration makes this portable unit very unique and allows for operators to have access to a large amount of filtration in confined or isolated areas where external venting is not possible. Specialty-blended filtration media may also be utilized with this unit and includes Acid Gas, Mercury, Aldehyde, and Ammonia filters. This system also comes equipped with refillable filter frames for easy filter replacement and low cost maintenance. In addition, a Variable Speed Controller is a standard feature.

Both Model 500’s are portable and require no exterior-ducting or makeup air. Heavy-duty locking casters and a variety of extraction arm options make these fume extractors the perfect solution for applications that require a powerful respiratory engineering control with maneuverability. One popular arm option is a 12’ L by 6” diameter flame-retardant, flexible “python” hose, which is available in singular, dual, and quad options to accommodate one or more operators.

For more information on the Model 500, please call us at 1.800.799.4609, email us at sales@sentryair.com, or fill out this form to receive more information.

Industrial Hygiene Report: Control of Formaldehyde in the Workplace

2011-05-13T15:41:00.002-05:00

INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE REPORT

Control of Formaldehyde In the Workplace

May 2011

Date of tests: April 08 and April 27, 2011

Introduction

Formaldehyde is a gas that is sometimes found in emissions from particle board or from other products made from formaldehyde such as urea-formaldehyde or phenol-formaldehyde polymers. It has been reported [1] that some consumer products used to straighten or treat human hair may contain or release formaldehyde during use. Formaldehyde has a penetrating, irritating odor. It is highly reactive and readily polymerizes to form a trimer (trioxymethylene) or the solid, paraformaldehyde. Formaldehyde is often marketed as a 37% (by weight) water solution called formalin. It is usually stabilized by the addition of 8-10% methanol. Formaldehyde is a confirmed carcinogen and workers’ exposure is regulated by OSHA. The eight-hour TWA exposure should not exceed 0.75ppm and the 15-minute short-term exposure limit (STEL) has been set at 2ppm.

Purpose

The purpose of this experiment was to demonstrate the effectiveness of the Sentry Air Systems Model 300 Winged Sentry™ with Lid (WSL) in collecting and removing formaldehyde gas produced by the evaporation of a measured amount of liquid formalin. The Model 300 WSL was equipped with an activated charcoal filter specially treated for the removal of aldehydes for one test and a standard activated charcoal filter for another test. There are two WSL models available (Model SS-200 WSL and Model SS-300 WSL); the latter was used in this project.

Model 300 Winged Sentry with Lid [Model # SS-300-WSL]

Discussion

Formaldehyde is best captured near its source and the Model 300 WSL is very efficient in capturing and removing formaldehyde before it mixes with the surrounding workplace air. Formaldehyde that escapes into the room air can be a health concern for personnel since it has poor warning properties and air concentrations could exceed the recommended limit before its odor is detected. For purposes of this experiment a measured amount of liquid formalin was distributed drop-wise from a burette onto several cotton balls placed in a shallow pan. The cotton provided a large surface area to facilitate the evaporation of the formaldehyde solution. When the Model 300 WSL was turned on, a stream of air was drawn across the cotton balls and into the Sentry fume extractor.

[1] http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2011-04-12/kkmk/chi-hair-straightening-products-could-release-formaldehyde-20110412_1_brazilian-blowout-oregon-s-osha-formaldehyde

Experimental

On April 8, 2011, an activated carbon filter treated for the removal of aldehydes was prepared and installed in the Model 300 WSL. The air flow rate with this specific filter was measured to be approximately 250 cfm (cubic feet per minute). 4.0 ml of formalin (containing 1.48 grams of formaldehyde) was dispensed from a 50-ml burette and evaporated into the air stream over a 30-minute period. Air samples were collected during the experiment using SKC 226-119 sorbent tubes and battery-powered sampling pumps. The pumps were set to pull about 100 cc/min. and were pre- and post-calibrated. All personnel involved in the sampling project wore half-face, air-purifying respirators equipped with an organic vapor cartridge while formalin was being handled. The operator also wore eye protection. Samples were taken at the inlet and outlet of the Model 300 WSL.

Preparing the Formaldehyde Sample

Unit Inlet

Unit Outlet

A second test was performed using a standard activated charcoal filter. The air flow was measured to be approximately 187.5 cfm. The experiment was set up using the same parameters as outlined above. All samples, including a blank, were sent to an AIHA-certified laboratory for analysis using HPLC and UV detection (NIOSH Method 2016).

When the results of the first test were reviewed, it was discovered that the inlet concentration of formaldehyde during the first test was an order of magnitude less than was found during the second test. The cause of this difference is unknown, but the difference in airflow is believed to have been a factor. Because of the low concentration found during the first test, it was decided to run the test again using an air flow of 187.5 cfm. Accordingly, on April 27, 2011, this third test was performed using an activated charcoal filter that was specially treated for the removal of aldehydes. This time, 2.5 ml of formalin was evaporated into the air stream over a 20-minute period. Air samples were collected at the inlet and outlet of the machine using a sampling rate of about 150cc/min. In addition, an area sample was taken of the room air, placed approximately six feet away from the operation.

Results

The sampling results are presented in the following tables:

Table I

Analysis of Samples collected for Formaldehyde while using the Model 300 WSL

April 8, 2011; (Using Specially treated Charcoal)

Table 2

Analysis of Samples collected for formaldehyde while using the Model 300 WSL

April 8, 2011; (Using Standard Activated Charcoal)

Table 3

Analysis of Samples collected for Formaldehyde while using the Model 300 WSL

April 27, 2011; (Using Specially treated Charcoal)

Results and Conclusions

1. Both the specially treated activated carbon and standard activated carbon filters used in the Sentry Air Systems SS-300-WSL unit did an excellent job of removing formaldehyde from the air in the experiments described herein. The calculated efficiency of removal ranged between 95.45% for the standard activated carbon to >99.33% for the treated activated carbon.

2. The concentration of formaldehyde in the ambient air was maintained below its detection limits. The Model 300-WSL provided excellent protection throughout the experiment(s). Potential exposures, without regard to the use of a respirator, were found to be well below OSHA workplace limits (PEL) for formaldehyde.

3. It should be noted that there was some formaldehyde gas found in the sampling tube placed at the outlet of the unit when using standard activated carbon. However, in both experiments where the specially treated activated carbon was used, no formaldehyde was detected in the sampling tubes at the outlet. Therefore, Sentry Air Systems recommends the use of the specially treated activated carbon in the Model 300-WSL and in other Sentry Air System extractors in laboratories and other workplaces for the control of formaldehyde gas.

Respectfully submitted,
Robert F. Adams, Industrial Hygienist
RF Adams & Associates

If you have any questions or comments regarding this report, call Sentry Air Systems at 1-800-799-4609 or contact Robert Adams at 713-983-7910 or by e-mail at BobCIH@aol.com.

NOTE: An MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) for formalin as used in this project can be found at: http://avogadro.chem.iastate.edu/MSDS/formaldehyde.htm

For a PDF version of this report, click here.

For information on other formaldhyde fume extraction products, visit our website.

What are the Most Important Features that Labs Want in a Fume Hood?

2011-05-11T14:31:00.001-05:00

Lab Manager Magazine recently released the results of a survey titled, "Are You in the Market for a Fume Hood?"

There were a variety of queries, including maintenance and regulatory questions like "What is the frequency of the inspections of your fume hood?" (The highest rated answer was "annually") and more general questions, like the reason the respondent was purchasing a fume hood (The most popular answer was "setting up a new lab/developing a brand new method").

Lab Manager also reported Fume Hood features that were most important to the respondents:

Durability of product 98%

Low maintenance/easy to clean 98%

Performance of product 97%

Safety and health features 96%

Ease of use: ergonomic operation 95%

Low operating costs 90%

Total cost of ownership 86%

Value for price paid 85%

Warranties 85%

Service and support 79%

Availability of supplies and accessories 74%

Vendor reputation 68%

Past experience with product 41%

Currently using vendor’s product 21%

What additional features are important to you? Let us know.

To see Sentry Air's Line of Ductless Fume Hoods: Click Here. For Exhaust Hoods, Click Here.

Read Lab Manager's full article here.