Doc Mark
~ Elite 1000 Member ~
With the recent threads about the danger of shell dust inhalation, our FEGA friend Rick Thronburg (From William-Henry Knives), sent me this great article on the debate. This article is different from many you will see posted on the internet...it actually is based on real research!
I've said for years that the dangers of shell carving was overblown, and now I have something to back up my theory. You still need to take reasonable precautions as with any fine particulate dust in your workspace, but you don't need to be concerned with "toxic gases etc.". I use a dust collection system built into the table that I carve on, plus I wear a simple dust mask when I'm doing bulk shell removal. During the detail carving, however, I don't have anything other than my usual fan blowing across my work bench.
I hope this gives you all a little peace of mind and again I thank Rick Thronburg not only for this information but for all that he does for knife engravers everywhere.
I've said for years that the dangers of shell carving was overblown, and now I have something to back up my theory. You still need to take reasonable precautions as with any fine particulate dust in your workspace, but you don't need to be concerned with "toxic gases etc.". I use a dust collection system built into the table that I carve on, plus I wear a simple dust mask when I'm doing bulk shell removal. During the detail carving, however, I don't have anything other than my usual fan blowing across my work bench.
I hope this gives you all a little peace of mind and again I thank Rick Thronburg not only for this information but for all that he does for knife engravers everywhere.