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Re: Eyeware for neon work
I like dydymium as well which protect you from sodium flare. You can
get these UV coated at any eyeglass store for around $15 to $25.
One thing that all glassblowers should be aware of is that simply the
direct heat on your eyes - let's say you are leaning over your hand
torch or worse your ribbon burner - can accelerate the chemistry that
causes cataracts. Some type of wrap around protection is wise.
Kenny
> Tom mentioned an interest in the subject of eyeware, and I'd love to get
> a discussion going on this.
>
> I haven't done much experimenting, but this is my experience so far:
>
> 1. I like dydymium specs for working the colored glasses, but I have
> "heard" they provide little in the way of protection.
> 2. I've tried some gold-coated specs, and they are too dark - unusable.
>
> It would certainly seem like UV protection is desirable. I can see
> phosphors flourescing at the ends of coated tubing when held next to the
> crossfire, so there must be short-wave UV eminating.
>
> I wear glasses, and currently have regular acrylic lenses. I believe
> most plactics are somewhat better at UV absorption than glass. I am
> going to the optomotrist for a routine exam before the end of the year,
> and I'm going to ask about acrylic vs. polycarbonate vs. glass (related
> to UV absorption). I'll pass along what I hear.
>
> I'd love to hear some of you others experience here. I know very little
> of this.
>
> -John Anderson
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Kenny Greenberg Neon Artist, Scenic Specialist, Columnist - Internet World
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