A Quick Start Guide to Auto Darkening Welding Helmets
If you are a welder you are most likely concerned with your
safety. You take precautions by wearing a helmet while welding,
but what type of helmet do you have? The type of helmet you wear
can greatly affect your eye safety. Welders are all too familiar
with the possibility of an arc flash. Exposure to the intense
arc flash can cause serious harm to your eyes including retinal
burns. Therefore, it is imperative to find an auto darkening
welding helmet.
What should you look for in an auto darkening welding helmet?
First, verify that the helmet meets the ANSI Z87.1 standard.
This standard guarantees that the helmet will provide the proper
protection against the arc flash. You can choose a lens shade
that will suit your comfort level and needs. Ensure that you
wear the helmet properly in the down position when you weld.
Welding helmets can change shade by solar powered or battery
operated means. What are the differences between these two
methods? Solar powered shades change when a change in light
intensity is detected. They are designed to automatically darken
from the arc. Battery operated shades must be turned on by the
welder to operate like the solar powered shades.
Helmet specifications can be analyzed before making a purchase.
You can research specifications including viewing area, UV/IR
protection, switching speed, power supply, operating
temperature, weight, price, and much more. More detailed
information regarding each specification can be found on many
manufacturers' websites.
Find a helmet that feels comfortable atop your head for extended
periods of time. You might want to invest in a helmet that has a
sensor bar if you work in close proximity of other welders. The
sensor bar will help to alleviate any false alarm darkening of
your helmet due to neighboring welders.
Where can I find an auto darkening welding helmet? Auto
darkening welding helmets are sold through many stores, online
retailers, and even on Internet auction websites such as eBay.
Prices can range from under $100 to over $200. Helmets are
produced by different manufacturers and contain a wide range of
features. You can even purchase a helmet called the Hobart Hood
Premium 770262 Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet. It comes in a
Stars & Stripes version. This helmet has the American flag
painted on it.
There are plenty of Internet resources available to search for
your perfect welding helmet. You can find welding helmets that
align with your welding duties. An array of options is at your
fingertips.