When it comes to reliable respiratory protection in demanding work environments, powered air-purifying respirators (PAPRs) offer a major advantage over traditional face masks. Designed for comfort during long shifts and consistent airflow, PAPRs are ideal for industries like asbestos removal, construction, pharmaceuticals, woodworking, and hazardous material handling. Among the most trusted options on the market are the Sundström SR 500 and SR 700 belt-mounted PAPR systems. While both units deliver high-performance particle filtration and user-friendly design, they serve slightly different purposes based on the nature of the hazard. In this post, we’ll explore the key features, differences, and ideal applications of the SR 500 and SR 700 to help you choose the right system for your needs.
The Sundström SR 500 is a rugged, belt-mounted powered air-purifying respirator designed for demanding industrial applications. Built to handle exposure to both particles and gas/vapour contaminants, it’s a versatile choice for professionals working in asbestos removal, spray painting, chemical handling, and more. The SR 500 offers a consistent flow of filtered air to a range of compatible headtops, reducing breathing resistance and increasing comfort during long periods of use.
With a nominal protection factor (NPF) significantly higher than half or full-face negative-pressure respirators, the SR 500 is ideal for professionals seeking a high level of protection across a wide range of contaminants.
The Sundström SR 500 series delivers powerful, reliable protection. Whether paired with a face shield, hood, full face, half mask, or welding helmet, these kits are engineered for demanding environments like construction, chemical handling, and welding operations.
Designed for welding tasks with integrated helmet and flip-up shield for full-face and respiratory protection.
Highly rated for welders
Full face PAPR system providing a tight facial seal and high airflow – ideal for fine dust and particulates.
Rated for high protection
Chemical-resistant hood ideal for decontamination and hazardous material applications with full coverage.
Highly rated for chemical handling
Loose-fitting hood provides respiratory protection for workers with facial hair or skin sensitivities.
Rated for comfort and coverage
Modern single-hose half face kit offering balance and comfort. Great for general industry dusts and fumes.
Highly rated for general PAPR use
Durable face shield system with flip-up visor. Combines impact protection with clean airflow for tough conditions.
Rated high or workshop safety
The Sundström SR 700 is a lighter, more task-specific PAPR system engineered for use in environments where only particles (not gases or vapours) are present. It offers the same core functionality and ergonomic design as the SR 500 but omits gas filtration capabilities, making it more compact, quieter, and suitable for dust-only applications like asbestos removal, silica, woodworking, construction, grinding, and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
The SR 700 is perfect for professionals who don’t require gas/vapour protection but still need reliable and comfortable respiratory safety in dusty conditions.
These Sundström powered air kits pair the SR 700 fan unit with compatible headtops, offering optimal protection and comfort across various high-risk environments.
Powered air kit with tight-fitting full face mask. Ideal for dusty worksites requiring face-sealed protection with PAPR airflow.
Highly rated for asbestos removal
Loose-fitting hood system designed for users with facial hair or sensitive skin. Excellent airflow and comfort during extended wear.
Rated for facial hair compatibility
Face shield kit provides full eye, face, and respiratory protection. Ideal for grinding, sanding, and heavy-duty work.
Rated for high-impact tasks
Did you know that beards, moustaches, and even stubble can prevent a tight-fitting respirator from sealing correctly? According to Australian Standard AS/NZS 1715, any facial hair that interferes with the sealing surface of a respirator compromises its effectiveness. If you wear a tight-fitting disposable, half face, or full face respirator, you must be clean-shaven where the mask contacts your face.
In situations where shaving isn’t possible, loose-fitting powered air purifying respirators (PAPRs) may be a better solution. These don’t rely on a facial seal and can still offer high protection for workers with facial hair.
Read more about facial hair and respirator compatibility here ›
Here’s a quick comparison of the SR 500 and SR 700 to help you identify the best choice for your workplace:
| Feature | Sundström SR 500 | Sundström SR 700 |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Compatibility | Gas, Particle, or Combined Filters | Particle Filters Only |
| Weight | Slightly Heavier | More Lightweight |
| Noise Level | Standard | Low Noise Operation |
| Application | Asbestos, Chemicals, Spray Painting | Asbestos, Silica and Dust-Only Environments |
| Battery Life | Up to 7 Hours | Up to 8 Hours |
| Price Range | Higher | More Economical |
Choosing between the Sundström SR 500 and SR 700 comes down to your specific work environment and the types of airborne hazards you're exposed to.
Still not sure which PAPR suits your application? Contact the team at Allens Industrial Products — we’re here to help you find the right respiratory protection.
Both the SR 500 and SR 700 systems are compatible with a wide range of Sundström headtops and facepieces, allowing users to tailor their setup to the specific hazards and comfort needs of the job. These components are engineered for optimal airflow, visibility, and protection.
All headtops and facepieces are tested for compatibility with Sundström’s PAPR units, offering high protection factors and user comfort. Explore available accessories and spares at Allens Industrial Products.
When choosing between the Sundström SR 500 and SR 700, it all comes down to the level and type of protection your job demands. The SR 500 offers the flexibility to handle gas, vapour, and particle hazards in high-risk settings, while the SR 700 is a lighter, quieter, and more economical option purpose-built for dust-only environments. Both systems are compatible with a full range of Sundström headtops and facepieces, allowing for a tailored fit no matter your role or industry.
If you're unsure which unit is right for your application, get in touch with the team at Allens Industrial Products. We’re here to help you select respiratory protection that meets both your safety requirements and comfort needs.
Shop our range of Sundström powered air respirators and find the right solution for your application. Whether you need full protection against gases and particles or a lightweight unit for dust-only environments — Allens Industrial has you covered.
No. The SR 700 is designed exclusively for particle filtration. It cannot be used with gas or combination filters — for those applications, choose the SR 500.
The SR 500 provides up to 7 hours of battery life depending on fan speed and filter resistance. The SR 700 offers slightly longer runtime — up to 8 hours — due to its more efficient particle-only configuration.
Yes. Both units share the same blower-port design and are compatible with Sundström headtops including the SR 520, SR 530, SR 561, SR 580, SR 570, and SR 200 full face mask.
The SR 500 is commonly used in asbestos removal, spray painting, and chemical handling where both gases and particles are present. The SR 700 is ideal for dust-intensive jobs such as asbestos removal, woodworking, grinding, and pharmaceuticals.
Yes. Both units provide continuous airflow which helps reduce heat and moisture buildup inside the headtop, improving comfort during extended use in hot or humid conditions.
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