Taking the time to read this paper could help increasing welder work comfort experience and top-up weld quality.

There are many welding helmet models available o the market these days. There are self-darkening welding helmets available for both professionals and for hobbyists.

If you are considering purchasing an auto-darkening welding helmet pay attention to these aspects:

1) Fixed or variable darkening – a helmet with a constant darkness level has a fixed usually #10 darkness range. In case you might be considering a variable shade option, refer to the attached diagram. Considering the type of welded workpiece, its thickness, welding method and current, you will be able to choose a helmet with a filter fitting your needs.

welidng shade

2) filter reaction time – how quick the filter switches to a pre-set shade after the welding starts. The smaller the time is, the less harmful the process is to the eyesight That means noticeable difference after just one day of welding. Automatic filter reaction time is about 0.000278 s (1/3600) measured at room temperature, i.e. 20°C. Professional visors are rated at 0.00005 s (1/20000) at 20°C.

3) Field of view – the parameter depends on how much time you weld outside of the basic position. Where in case of low intensity, 40x90 mm is enough, however for industrial applications 100x60 mm is recommended.

4) Number of sensors – in case of helmet's professional usage, 2 sensors are enough. By rising the number of sensors manufacturer protects against potential malfunction or contamination. Using more sensors means better coverage while welding outside the basic position, when the sensor can be covered or soiled.

5) Sensitivity adjustment – darkening sensitivity control is useful in case of welding at low intensity i.e. with TIG when the arc is not as bright as with other methods.

6) Darkening delay control – allows to set time for the filter to remain darked after welding arc is stopped. This function is useful for spot welding. Short delay helps in quicker work performance while welder moves from one weld to another one. We use a longer delay times for welding at high currents, while a molten metals emit harmful radiation until it is cooled.

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As the weight of the welding helmet decreases, strain on the neck of the welder also lowers. This translates to work comfort increase and fatigue reduction.

The high temperatures protection, shock resistance and availability of spare parts are also worth noting.

When working as a professional welder it is worth the time to spend looking for best suitable welding helmet and not only searching for cheapest products. This may only have a positive outcome.

We recommendfor professionals a new welding helmet in our offer:

MOST SPECTRA - available in 3 versions