What are Respiratory Kits?
Respiratory kits help protect you from welding fume, grinding dust, and airborne gases/vapors by supplying a properly filtered airstream through a powered unit or by pairing filters/cartridges with a compatible headpiece. On this page you’ll find PAPR blower units, P3/P100 particulate filters, and gas & vapor cartridges for building or maintaining a reliable system.
PAPR vs. Filters & Cartridges — Which do I need?
- PAPR (Powered Air-Purifying Respirator): Uses a blower and filters to deliver filtered air to a headpiece. Great for longer wear times and lower breathing resistance.
- Filters & Cartridges: Particulate filters (e.g., P3/P100) target fume and dust; gas/vapor cartridges target specific chemicals. Choose the media rated for your hazard.
Which filter media should I choose?
- P3 / P100: High-efficiency particulate filters for welding fume, grinding dust, and smoke.
- Gas & Vapor: Use cartridges matched to the contaminant family (e.g., organic vapor; acid gas). Always consult your safety plan and SDS for the correct type.
How do I select a Respiratory Kit for welding?
- Identify the hazard: Particulate only, or particulates plus specific gases/vapors.
- Pick the platform: Stand-alone PAPR blower kit or filter/cartridge components compatible with your headpiece.
- Confirm compatibility: Match filters/cartridges and hoses to your blower and headtop model; check connector type.
- Check airflow and run time: Choose batteries and flow rates that cover a full shift with your selected filters.
How should respiratory gear fit with welding helmets and eyewear?
Route hoses and seals per the manufacturer’s instructions and verify that all PPE works together without breaking the face or neck seal. Perform a user seal/flow check each time you don the equipment.
Maintenance & change-out best practices
- Inspect before each use; replace damaged, wet, or heavily loaded filters.
- Follow your site’s change-out schedule for gas/vapor cartridges; do not wait for odor or taste.
- Keep batteries charged; store clean and dry away from oils and heat.
Respiratory Kits FAQ
Do I need P3/P100 for welding fume?
Yes. High-efficiency particulate filters (P3/P100) are the common choice for welding fume and grinding dust. Add gas/vapor cartridges only if your process or SDS calls for them.
What’s the difference between a PAPR kit and cartridges?
A PAPR uses a blower to pull air through filters and deliver it to a headpiece, reducing breathing resistance and improving comfort. Cartridges/filters alone rely on your inhalation and are paired directly to a compatible facepiece.
How often should I replace filters and cartridges?
Particulate filters are replaced when breathing resistance increases, the filter is damaged/soiled, or per your program. Gas/vapor cartridges follow a calculated change-out schedule based on contaminant, concentration, and usage.
Can I mix brands of blowers, hoses, and filters?
Only if the components are listed as compatible by the manufacturer. Always match the connection type and approved combinations.