Fine dust respirator by repurposing a CPAP machine

[Bob Gramann]

I wouldn't use the exhaust as a source. I was just reporting the measurements. The particle counter counts .5 micron particles. I settled on a count below 700 (on the machine, that equates to 7000 per cubic foot, if I remember correctly) as being acceptable since that is what my living room measures when the grand kids are here. In general, if the workshop count is above 500, I wear a mask and run the filter until the count drops to 200 or less.

[Bob Hammond]

I discarded the notion about 1 minute after I posted it (I should have deleted it). Gradual deterioration would occur and a frank leak could be very unpleasant indeed.

However, as a high-volume air source, a new buckethead vac/blower in a new bucket with a new HEPA filter and >>not ever used for dust pickup << could work, but it would be noisy.

But I"ll stick with the CPAP machine, which is my best choice and very comfortable to use, I'm sure. I picked up a CPAP outfit on CL for $25, complete with hose, NIB full coverage (nose & mouth) masks, and a humidifer. It only has 39 hours of use on it, and so it should last a very long time.