PMK gas masks: models and application

How to use?

The instructions clearly state that a gas mask that has got wet for any reason must be removed from the bag as soon as possible. Then it is thoroughly wiped off and dried in the open air. In the cold season, if a protective mask and its parts are brought into the room, they must be wiped off. The quality of the connecting pipes should be checked periodically. To do this, they are stretched and the jersey is not peeled off.

Gas masks from the "PMK" and "GP-7" series are selected by measuring the horizontal of the head at the level of the forehead. The following gradation is adopted:

• 1 size - no more than 0.55 m;
• 2 size - 0.56-0.6 m inclusive;
• 3 size - over 0.6 m.

You need to carry a gas mask with you so that the bag does not interfere with normal use. You need to put it on with your eyes closed, holding your breath. The mask is applied to the chin and then pulled from the bottom up. In this case, no folds should appear. Do not use a punctured, scratched or otherwise damaged gas mask.

You also need to consider:

• filter expiration date;
• the duration of the regenerative cartridges;
• the need to exercise using a gas mask.

The following video provides an overview of the PMK-3 gas mask from the OZK-F set.

Description and purpose

The PMK can be deciphered as "full-face mask box". It belongs to military filtering devices to protect the respiratory system, eyes and skin from harmful chemical and other impurities. At the same time, the oxygen content in the atmosphere should not be less than 18%, since the gas mask does not have its own independent oxygen supply system, as in PPE (personal protective equipment) and hose respirators.

However, the shelf life and storage conditions of the filter box are in the most important place, since it has a limited time of use.

Today, there are many different types of gas masks and brands of filters designed for certain substances that cannot exceed 82% of the total air volume. These products are effective against radiation, vapors, most toxins, gases and airborne aerosols, including viruses and bacteria.

According to the field of application, in addition to the military, there are models:

• civil (adults or children);
• industrial.

The former do not require additional skills to use, but every common person hopes that they will never come in handy. The latter are an important tool for the survival of intelligence officers when performing dangerous work.

When it comes to performance and protection, PMC is truly the best option. Serves as a rescue from fast and slow acting BOV (chemical warfare agents):

• biological and chemical weapons - dangerous pathogens causing epidemics, non-lethal and lethal SDYAV, tear and irritating, nerve-paralytic, psychogenic and asphyxiant substances;
• aerodispersed cloud of radioactive substances;
• to protect the organs of vision from nuclear and thermonuclear light radiation, special films (PSZG-2) are used.

Major modifications

A complete overview of the 5 latest domestically produced military gas masks with detailed instructions for use and the most important factors to consider when buying them will help narrow down the choice of the best for survival.

PMK-1

It was first manufactured in 1970, and in the 80s serial production for the USSR Armed Forces began, later it received some application with the Russian Armed Forces. It used the same 40mm threaded mounts as most other Soviet gas masks. The first Soviet mask with triangular lenses and a drinking system.Due to the fact that the PMK-1 mask is relatively similar to the PMK-3, it is still used in Russia as a training gas mask.

Available in three sizes, numbered 1, 2 or 3.

PMK-2

After several years of service in the early 1990s, the PMK-1 was eventually replaced by the new PMK-2. In this version, the threaded mounts are replaced by bayonet mounts, which made it possible to fix the filter tightly enough so that it does not dangle. In addition, now it can be installed from any desired side (for left-handed shooters), a plug is inserted in the opposite direction.

Enlarged trapezoidal lenses for a wider field of view, rubber 5-point strap (replaceable), available in 3 sizes (small, medium and large respectively).

PMK-3

It is a gas mask of the current issue of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. In the 1990s, work began on a project to replace gas masks, since the Soviets were able to install the FPC on only one side.

Backward compatible with old Russian filters (using an adapter). Features larger glasses and a screw-on drinking tube adapter equipped with a shuttle valve cover. The reduced weight is only 960g.

Supplied with a new protective filter cover for heavy snow and rain conditions. It also includes a plastic spacer that creates an internal gap and improves the efficiency of the FPC, as opposed to the old filter cover which obstructed the passage of air a little.

PMK-4

It is a panoramic full-face protection device with a speech diaphragm, featuring a one-piece spectacle assembly as in imported devices. Otherwise, it is very similar to the previous version with a 40 mm threaded mount (Kr40x4 in accordance with GOST 8762-75). Bayonet filters can be connected using adapters.

PMK-5

The gas mask represents the latest fifth modernized model produced by the Russian company Tambovmash. Available in small and large sizes. For civilian use, there is a modification of the GP-21.

Has a flexible one-piece spectacle assembly (comparable to MCU-2, USA) and a rubber 6-point strap.

It has two 40 mm threaded holes with a plug and a voice diaphragm in front.

How to store?

The PMK-3 gas mask, like any other model, should be protected from shock, shock and vibration. Even metal parts, not to mention glass ones, can suffer. It is not necessary to hold the exhalation valves in your hands without the direct need.

If such valves become clogged or stick together, blow them carefully. The helmet-mask is washed only in soapy water; before doing this, disconnect the box with the absorbing filter

The storage bag should always be well dried. Otherwise, rust is likely to occur and even a drop in absorption capacity. The distance to heaters and heat sources should be at least 3 m. If you plan to store the gas mask for a long time, the hole in the bottom of the box should be closed with a rubber stopper. For storage in large volumes, special boxes are used; you can store PMK-3 in unheated warehouses. Storage outdoors is also permissible. But then you need to use factory-capped pallets and tarpaulin for shelter. Contact with acids, alkalis and degassing compounds is inadmissible.

Characteristic

When creating the PMK-3 combined-arms gas mask, the previous modification of the PMK-2 was taken as a basis. But it has been significantly improved. The official description notes that such a device helps protect against:

• radioactive substances;
• dangerous microorganisms;
• potent toxic substances (AHOV);
• dust with radioactive properties;
• light exposure when using nuclear weapons.

The designers have taken care of the possibility of drinking water even in polluted places.The spectacle assembly is enlarged in comparison with the previous model, and the drinking tube now does not interfere with the simultaneous use of the communication channel.

The following main parameters are declared:

• filter life - up to 240 hours;
• clarity of speech - 95%;
• continuous stay without risk to health - 24 hours;
• net weight (without a special bag) - 0.96 kg;
• the guaranteed storage period is up to 15 years.

Storage

With proper operation, the gas mask will last up to 2 years, after which it must be discarded or replaced with filters.

The helmet mask is made of a polymer composite material with a rubber 6-strap headgear, and the filter consists of a metal case with a special cover. The period of destruction of the materials that make up the gas mask is indicated in the passport and markings on the body. The shelf life of FPC directly depends on the conditions in which it is stored, and is usually 3-5 years if the valves were closed with plugs on both sides.

Storage conditions:

• well ventilated room with back-up lighting in case of power outages;
• bars on the windows;
• hard flooring;
• the presence of direct sunlight is unacceptable;
• temperature - from +5 to +15 degrees;
• compliance with humidity up to 60%, without sudden temperature changes of more than 5 degrees;
• regular sanitation, prevention and extermination of rodents and insects.

Before each use of the gas mask, a tightness test and a visual inspection for the integrity of all components are carried out. Damage on rubber parts, scratches and cracks on glass, loose fasteners, corrosion and dents on metal elements, breakdowns in threads, signs of moisture or talcum powder during fitting are unacceptable.

Modern PMK gas masks are in high demand not only in the army, but also among civilian lovers of tourism and history in the Exclusion Zone of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant.

The following is a video review of PMK-1 and PMK-2 gas masks.

Device and technical characteristics

The gas mask consists of a FPC, which has a cylindrical shape. FPK height - 9 cm, diameter - 11 cm.

The design of the device consists of several elements. Let's list them.

• The front part is equipped with silicate lenses. Protects eyes, face and scalp and respiratory system. Includes body, spectacle assembly, box, fairings and mount. The front part is made of rubber, it can be black or gray.
• The shutter looks like a thin rubber strip that is tucked inward. This improves the sealing of the face of the mask.
• Spectacle knot.
• Fairings are air ducts, the purpose of which is to blow air over the spectacle assembly.
• The mask holder reduces the formation of condensation on the spectacle part, prevents freezing. It looks like a half mask made of rubber with several valves for inhalation.
• The valve manifold distributes the air flow during inhalation and exhalation. It is considered a vulnerable part of the device, since when deformed, poisonous substances can penetrate under the mask.
• Two junction points to the box.
• Plugs.
• The capsule intercom has several types of housing: non-collapsible and collapsible.
• The water system allows for fluid intake under contaminated conditions.
• The headgear or retention system fixes the face mask on the head.
• Connecting tube. The rubber element in a special sheath is equipped with a corrugation. This ensures elasticity and unobstructed air flow in the bend areas. Connects the front and the box.
• The throat is equipped with a flange with cutouts and projections that are located on the fairing and correspond to the cutouts. An inhalation valve is located on the neck. Storage involves sealing the box with several plugs. The top cap is secured with a fairing.

The main characteristics of the gas mask:

• filter resource - 240 hours;
• maximum residence time - 24 hours;
• temperature range -40 ° С ... + 50 ° С;
• breathing resistance on inspiration at an air flow rate of 30 l / min, (Pa) mm of water. pillar - 180 (18);
• audibility of speech up to 95%;
• dimensions - 31x18x18 cm;
• weight - 950 g (without cover).

The service life of the protective device is 15 years.

User manual

In order to assemble the PMK-2, you must strictly follow the assembly instructions.

1. The box is inserted into any hole in the mask. Sealing is carried out along the outer zone of the neck. Therefore, the holes are tight and have a small diameter.
2. The fairing is installed on the FPK flange from the inside. When installed correctly, the element hole points towards the valve box. The grill serves as a protection against tight contact between the cover and the entrance at the bottom of the box.
3. The connecting nodes are inserted from either side. It depends on the specific type of work. The junction points appear as two notches on the cheek areas of the mask.
4. The plug is fixed on the opposite side from the nodes.
5. The connection of the FPC with the neck to the mask is made through an adapter. For the KDP and the PMK-2 device, several transitional parts are used. One adapter is connected to the mask using a connecting tube, the second one connects the FPK with an additional cartridge.

To put on the device correctly, a certain sequence of actions is also required:

1. pull the device out of the bag;
2. take the gas mask with both hands by the sealed edges located below;
3. take a side strap in each hand, the thumbs are outside the mask, the rest are inside;
4. stretch the fasteners in opposite directions;
5. chin fixation is performed in the lower part of the obturator;
6. put on the headgear using up / back movements.

PMK-2 is a protective device that does not cause discomfort during work. The device has a frame, canvas bag, which is very convenient for storage.

The above recommendations will help you assemble the gas mask correctly, and clear instructions for use will eliminate mistakes at the most crucial moment.

An overview of the PMK-1 and PMK-2 gas masks in the video.

Device and principle of operation

The design of the PMK is a helmet-mask with adjustable rubber mounts and a filter box, which are attached to each other by means of a bayonet connection or a thread with a diameter of 40 mm (Kr40x4 in accordance with GOST 8762-75).

The kit may include:

• helmet-mask of different colors with enlarged glasses for easier visibility when shooting;
• FPK with improved protection system;
• rubber plug;
• adapter for threaded filters;
• protective film from SIYAV;
• sealing rings;
• non-removable device with a speech membrane;
• knitted hydrophobic cover for FPK;
• warming cuffs;
• canvas bag made of two-layer fabric with a button and two textile fasteners.

Unlike civilian devices, they have a drinking system with a tube that connects to a flask. The set has a special cap that supplies liquid only when connected to a mask.

The principle of operation of filtering PMK:

• due to the anti-aerosol filter, the air is purified from aerosols;
• the vapors are neutralized thanks to the absorbing carbon catalyst.

Unlike insulating PPE, which, although they have their own autonomous oxygen saturation system (using a built-in special cylinder), completely restricting the access to ambient air, they have a limited period of validity (up to several hours).

Step-by-step instructions for preparing the PMK for work.

1. One of the valves is sealed with a rubber plug (up to the PMK-3 series), and a filter box is attached to the second, or two at the same time in later versions.
2. In accordance with the type of fastening (thread or bayonet), the filter box is either screwed in until it stops, or by axially scrolling the parts clockwise, the neck bayonet is aligned with the recess until it is completely sealed.The latter method is more reliable and is used even in fire hydrants at increased vibration loads and pressure, but the first option is much easier to implement in the field. There are special adapters for combining threaded bayonet masks or vice versa.
3. In modern versions, a textile protective cover is put on the FPK against dirt and precipitation.
4. The pipe of the drinking system is screwed onto the flask, in new models it is removable and does not interfere with the conversation.