Monel piston and nickel allergies- your thoughts?

[reefrat]

Ok, I think this is probably a complete non-issue but I'll pose the question anyway!

I am very sensitive to nickel, anything with nickel in it comes in contact with my skin will quickly result in a rash (contact dermatitis).
The top of the range Atomic titanium body first stage use a Monel piston and apparently this has a high Nickel content.

Is there any way that breathing through a first stage with high nickel content internal parts could cause a respiratory tract reaction??

Cheers
RR

 

[Bob DBF]

You might want to have the moderators move this to Dive Medicine for more useful answers.



Good Luck

Bob

 

[reefrat]

You might want to have the moderators move this to Dive Medicine for more useful answers.



Good Luck

Bob

Good point!

 

[knotical]

Moved.

 

[DocVikingo]

Is there any way that breathing through a first stage with high nickel content internal parts could cause a respiratory tract reaction??CheersRR

Hey rr,

Given the absence of corrosion, abrasion or other circumstance that might cause a Monel part to throw off particulates, and this is extremely unlikely in any reasonably maintained reg of Atomic quality, there really is no way that the simple presence of a high nickel content 1^st stage piston could trigger an allergic respiratory reaction.

Regards,

DocVikingo

 

[diversteve]

If it's a concern, get an ST1, B2 or Z2/Z3 instead. All breathe identically, you just pay more for the better materials used as the price goes up and the weight goes (slightly) down.
An ST1 is 5 oz. heavier than a T2. Both the body and the piston are stainless. And it's a lot cheaper.

Atomic Aquatics Regulator Specifications
Atomic Aquatics Regulator Systems Comparison Chart

 

[reefrat]

Thanks for the responses, I think DocVikingo is correct in that there would have to be some form of particulate from the Monel piston in order to cause a reaction in the respiratory tract. Taking into account the hardness, corrosion resistance and lubricity of Monel this seems unlikely in any sort of normal use so I guess it's all good. The ST1 would be my next choice but I got a good deal on a T2x so I think I'll run with it.
Thanks all
RR

 

[DocVikingo]

Taking into account the hardness, corrosion resistance and lubricity of Monel this seems unlikely in any sort of normal use so I guess it's all good.RR

Amen, Brother 'rat.

Cheers,

DocV