From: fjm <27385~clectus.net> Date: Sun, 29 Aug 1999 19:31:21 -0700 Subject: Be Cu alloys
Vern sites the use of beryllium copper alloys in surgical instrument manufacture as something that might lead one to believe in the inherent safety of the alloy. In a quick search of alta vista I did find a specific study linking beryllium copper exposure to the berrylium lung disease. I'd like to reiterate that it's the beryllium dust that poses the risk not the alloyed metal as a surgical instrument or golf club or even an unfiled harmonica reed. The study mentions that the Be Cu dust exposure is often trivialised due to the relatively low beryllium content. While I'd drink happily a glass full of water I'd be disinclined to consume a container of ground glass. The exposures being radically different. I'll stick to my original "I" statement, I wouldn't want to tune Be Cu reeds. Others may tune as is their wont. fjm
