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Re: Didymium glasses

Posted By: SVP Neon Equipment
Date: Friday, 16 December 2011, at 1:57 a.m.

In Response To: Didymium glasses (tomz.)


> Now that we're all using no lead glass it's
> pretty important to use didymium glasses. If
> I'm not mistaken, soda lime glass puts off a
> harsh sodium flare which can very much cause
> cataracts, not good.

> What are you guys using? I have a cheapo
> pair from years back when I was doing a lot
> more lampworking, they help see the glass in
> the fires.

> Here is one source where you can order some:
> http://www.sundanceglass.com/didymiumsr.htm
> I remember talking to Morgan Crook years
> ago and he strongly recommended using them
> at all times, despite what glass you were
> working with. Jacob Fishman disagreed.

> These are like the ones I have..
>
> http://www.sundanceglass.com/lampWEB/9300.jpg
> Save your eyes!!

Morgan’s recommendation is based on established science, not personal preference. His father is (was?) an eye doctor who has done research for such companies as Bosch & Lomb (he’s no dummy). Even if the glass does not exhibit visible sodium flare while being worked in the fire, it still gives off quantities of IR and UV. Regardless, it’s better to be safe than sorry. By the time you find out that you should have been using such glasses, it’s too late; the damage to your eyes has already been done.

However, the new ACE lenses may be more effective and are also available in plastic, which makes them lightweight. Clip-on versions are also available for those with prescription glasses, or you can have prescription lenses made of either didymium or ACE and put in your frames. Another source is www.waleapparatus.com


SVP Neon Equipment

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