Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

a fume extractor can just be a length of dryer vent hose and a big PC fan. filter not needed if it goes out a window.

if you do use a filter make sure it captures metal vapor, which is unlikely with a regular hepa filter.



Soldering does not generate metal vapor. Soldering fumes are burnt flux residues, which are often acidic and quite nasty.

Laser cutting or engraving makes even worse fumes and requires seriously good filtering. I personally think they're nasty enough that it is irresponsible to just dump this stuff outside into the environment without cleanup but it's certainly better than breathing it.


> Soldering does not generate metal vapor.

Seeing as a lot of solder is lead based i imagine this would be a huge safety concern if it did create lead vapor.


liquid lead has a vapor pressure (it was easy to google) but at what temperature or sustained duration it would be dangerous I don't have the background to assess. in terms of duration, heavy metal poisonings are cumulative over time.


Why does laser cutting or engraving make fumes? Please educate me. I would have assumed cutting wood was a relatively harmless process.


It burns the material it cuts.


Oh right. Duh


back when I was a young electronics hobbyist, back in the days when there was still lead in solder, man I loved the smell of flux burning off! I've never noticed any ill effects, but there is still time for me to get emphysema or lung cancer.




Consider applying for YC's Winter 2026 batch! Applications are open till Nov 10

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: