Supplied Air Respirators
These respirators do not depend on filters. Instead, they provide an independent supply of uncontaminated air. This type supplies air to the face-piece through a length of hose called an air line. Air line respirators are called "Type C" respirators. When they are used for abrasive blasting operations, they are called "Type CE" respirators. Type CE respirators are commonly used on lead jobs involving bridges and steel structures. The air line is connected to either a compressed-air cylinder or else to a compressor that is equipped with equipment to purify the air. The air supply can be used to pressurize the mask to achieve a high protection factor.