A waterjet cutter cannot be used for honeycomb structure  because it introduces water in the part. Do not cut anything  else on equipment that is used for composites because other  materials can contaminate the composite material. Prepreg materials can be cut with a CNC Gerber table.  The use of this equipment speeds up the cutting process  and optimizes the use of the material. Design software is  available that calculates how to cut plies for complex shapes.  [Figures 7-89] Always protect eyes from chemicals and flying objects. Wear  safety glasses at all times and, when mixing or pouring acids,  wear a face shield. Never wear corrective contact lenses in a  shop, even with safety glasses. Some of the chemical solvents  can melt the lenses and damage eyes. Dust can also get under  the lenses, causing damage. Do not breathe carbon fiber dust and always ensure that there  is a good flow of air where the work is performed. Always use  equipment to assist in breathing when working in a confined  space. Use a vacuum near the source of the dust to remove  the dust from the air. When sanding or applying paint, you  need a dust mask or a respirator. A properly fitted dust mask  provides the protection needed. For application of paints, a  sealed respirator with the correct filters or a fresh air supply  respirator is required.  Advanced composite materials including prepreg, resin  systems, cleaning solvents, and adhesives could be  hazardous, and it is important that you use personal protection  equipment. It is important to read and understand the Safety  Data Sheets (SDS) and handle all chemicals, resins, and  fibers correctly. The SDS lists the hazardous chemicals in  the material system, and it outlines the hazards. The material  could be a respiratory irritant or carcinogenic, or another kind  of dangerous substance. A downdraft table is an efficient and economical device for  protecting workers from harmful dust caused by sanding and  grinding operations. The tables are also useful housekeeping  tools because the majority of particulate material generated  by machining operations is immediately collected for  disposal. Downdraft tables should be sized and maintained  to have an average face velocity between 100 and 150 cubic  feet per minute. The downdraft table draws contaminants  like dust and fibers away from the operator’s material.  Downdraft tables should be monitored and filters changed  on a regular basis to provide maximum protection and  particulate collection. During composite repair work, protect your skin from  hazardous materials. Chemicals could remain on hands that  burn sensitive skin. Always wear gloves and clothing that  offer protection against toxic materials. Use only approved  gloves that protect skin and do not contaminate the composite  material. Always wash hands prior to using the toilet or  eating. Damaged composite components should be handled  with care. Single fibers can easily penetrate the skin, splinter  off, and become lodged in the skin. Most solvents are flammable. Close all solvent containers and  store in a fireproof cabinet when not in use. Make sure that  solvents are kept away from areas where static electricity can  occur. Static electricity can occur during sanding operations  or when bagging material is unrolled. It is preferable to use  air-driven tools. If electric tools are used, ensure that they  are the enclosed type. Do not mix too much resin. The resin  Fire Protection Skin Protection Repair Safety Eye Protection Respiratory Protection Downdraft Tables Figure 7-88.  Bandsaw.  Figure 7-89.  Gerber cutting table. 7-53