Hi
I wonder if anyone has any knowledge of the possible health
effects, if any, of using a substance called Methyl Ethyl Ketone,
(MEK) in the Microweld system. I have used it for the last three
years whilst working for someone else, and now that I am about to
start working for myself, I have the chance to buy my own
soldering equipment, I want to get it right. Microweld is
supposedly the best soldering system to use in the UK, due to
its extremely hot flame. Someone mentioned earlier a system
called Aquamat, I beleive this also has a very hot flame, and
works by splitting water. Am I right? Does anyone know any more
details? I am also looking for a supplier of titanium, niobium,
and tantalum, preferably in the UK. Oh yes, there is one more
thing, am I the only one over here in the UK?
Kathryn Arbon.
I wonder if anyone has any knowledge of the possible
health effects, if any, of using a substance called Methyl
Ethyl Ketone, (MEK) in the Microweld system.
I have used it for the last three Terry, here is some information
I found at http://rtk.net/E10147T676, hope it helps.
Effects of methyl ethyl ketone on human health and the
environment depend on how much MEK is present and the length and
frequency of exposure. Effects also depend on the health of a
person or the condition of the environment when exposure occurs.
Breathing MEK for short periods of time, such as when painting
in a poorly vented area, can adversely affect the nervous system.
Effects range from headaches, dizziness, nausea, and numbness in
fingers and toes to unconsciousness. MEK vapor irritates the
eyes, the nose, and the throat. Direct, prolonged contact with
liquid methyl ethyl ketone irritates the skin and damages the
eyes. These effects are not expected to occur at levels of MEK
that are normally found in the environment.
Human health effects associated with breathing or otherwise
consuming smaller amounts of methyl ethyl ketone over long
periods of time are not known. Workers have developed
dermatitis, upset stomachs, loss of appetite, headaches,
dizziness, and weakness as a result of repeated exposure to MEK.
Laboratory studies show that exposure to large amounts of MEK in
air causes animals to give birth to smaller offspring. Studies
also show that repeat exposure to large amounts of MEK in air
causes adverse liver and kidney effects in animals.
Thankyou for the on MEK. I want to find another
means of soldering even more now. Thanks again, Kathryn. (Terry
is the owner of the computer, as I am between addresses).
I wonder if anyone has any knowledge of the possible health
effects, if any, of using a substance called Methyl Ethyl
Ketone, (MEK) in the Microweld system.
Hi Kathryn, I have been using MEK in my aqua torch for the past
9 years and havent suffered any ill effects from it. I purchase
it locally from Sherwin Williams paint supply. I think it is also
used for thinning paints and epoxy resins. You may want to get an
MSD sheet on it and read about exposure. Make sure you dont get
it on your skin or eyes though. Its alot like acetone in that it
will dry your skin very badly. Also, dont spill it on the floor
as it will take the finish right off . Im not sure about your
torch, but in mine, I can substitute MEK with acetone or Methyl
alcohol and get a cooler flame. Ken