4 ms·
Airflow follows the path of least resistance. Air and the particles in it will go around the edges of the mask where there is zero resistance.
by nickthemagicman 6y ago
Airflow follows the path of least resistance. Air and the particles in it will go around the edges of the mask where there is zero resistance.
- LeoPanthera 6y agoEven this is an improvement. After flowing around the edge it is moving at a lower speed and so particles will travel a smaller distance.
- XorNot 6y agoIt also means the droplets are mostly separating back out onto your skin, and also are not being directly blown into everyone elses face.
- nickthemagicman 6y agoWe're talking personal protection at the moment. It's clear it's tops droplets from affecting other people. But it provides zero personal protection.
- nickthemagicman 6y agoNot jf the pressure is ever so slightly increased.
- katmannthree 6y agoProper masks seal tightly to your face, there is no edge to go around.
- enraged_camel 6y agoNote that facial hair can prevent that.
- nickthemagicman 6y agoHave you ever used an n95 mask? They have a rubber band but that's it. I've always gotten stuff inside my mask any time I've used it for painting or carpentry.
- katmannthree 6y agoQuite often, at least back when they were available for industrial use. I prefer to use non-disposable p100 masks with a silicone seal. The seal leaves a red mark on your face after a few hours but it’s worth it to not inspirate hazardous materials if your mask gets bumped. That said, N95 masks can work fine if you fit them properly, which may involve shaving any facial hair outside of a mustache, shortening the rubber straps, or adjusting the metal nose bracket. It’s worth noting that an n95 mask doesn’t really provide vapor protection so it may not do too much for you while you’re painting but if you’re getting wood dust inside then your mask was either improperly fitted or it’s the wrong size for your face.
- nickthemagicman 6y agoNo they can't.
- katmannthree 6y agoDo you mean that n95 masks can't work fine? If so, I'm genuinely curious as to how they failed for you. I've used them while working on-site at a coal mine, as long as you're using a genuine high quality n95 mask and have it properly fitted you can absolutely wear one for 4+ hours without the inside getting contaminated. It's certainly not fun but I've done it many times without issues.