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Zeta Fresh Air W211 w/ PFU PAPR Parts

Zeta Fresh Air G201 w/ PFU PAPR Parts FAQs

Spare filters, seals, hoses and fittings for a powered-air welding helmet system, and how to match them to your unit.

Which parts of a powered-air welding helmet system wear out and need replacing?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

Most of the wear is in the consumable parts. The pre-filter and particle filter load up with fume, a gas filter (where fitted) is used up by gases, and the neck protector, face seal, headband or sweatband and visor fittings wear, stiffen or tear with use. The breathing hose, belt or harness and the battery are longer-life parts but still need checking for damage.

A good habit is to look over every part before each shift and replace anything damaged, worn or no longer fitting snugly. Your manual shows which parts your unit uses and how often the maker suggests checking them.

How do I work out which replacement filter fits my powered-air unit?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

Start with the manual and the markings on the blower unit and on the old filter. Filters are normally made to suit a particular blower, so a filter that screws or clips on is not automatically the right one. Check the filter type (particle or gas), its class marking and any part number printed on it, and match them to the unit.

Also think about the job. The right filter depends on what you are breathing, so use your risk assessment and the manual rather than guessing. Never mix parts from different systems unless the maker says they are approved together.

What is the difference between the pre-filter, the particle filter and a spark guard?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

They work in layers at the air intake. A spark guard or screen sits at the outside and stops hot particles from reaching the filter material. The pre-filter catches the larger particles first, so the main particle filter does not clog as quickly. The particle filter behind them does the fine work of removing welding fume.

The pre-filter is the layer that most needs keeping fresh, and changing it regularly usually helps the main filter last longer. Fit all the layers your manual calls for, in the right order, because leaving one out can shorten the life of the next.

How do I know when to change the pre-filter and the particle filter?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

Particle filters are usually changed when they become loaded and the unit can no longer supply enough air. Many units warn you with a low-flow alarm or a filter indicator, and you may notice shorter battery run time as the filter clogs. If an alarm sounds, stop work, leave the fume area and check the unit before carrying on.

The pre-filter generally needs changing more often than the main filter, particularly in dusty or smoky work. Exact intervals depend on the maker, the amount of welding and grinding, and the environment, so follow the manual and your own experience.

Does the particle filter stop gases and ozone, or do I need a gas filter?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

A particle filter only catches solid particles, such as welding fume. It does not remove gases or odours, so ozone and similar gases pass through it. For those hazards you need a gas or combination filter that is approved for your powered unit and suits the gas concerned.

Gas filters are grouped by letters, for example A for certain organic vapours, B for certain inorganic gases, E for acid gases and K for ammonia, with class numbers for capacity. Carbon monoxide is not covered by a standard B filter. Ask your safety adviser which type your work needs, and check the filter is approved for your unit.

How long does a gas filter last, and can I rely on smell to tell me it is finished?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

There is no single life for a gas filter. It depends on the gas, how much of it there is, humidity, temperature and how hard you are working. Gas filter material gives no airflow warning when it is used up, so do not rely on smell or taste alone to decide when to change it.

Set a change schedule with your safety adviser based on the maker's guidance and your risk assessment. If you do smell or taste something, leave the area and change the filter before returning to work.