What Type of Electrode should you Use for Underwater Welding

by | Jul 24, 2025 | Buying Guide

Underwater welding is a specialized process used in offshore structures, ship repairs, pipelines, and underwater constructions. Choosing the right electrode is crucial to ensuring strong, durable, and defect-free welds. This article explores the types of electrodes used in underwater welding, their properties, and how to select the best one for your specific application.

Types of Underwater Welding

Underwater welding can be classified into two main types:

1. Wet Welding

Wet welding is performed directly in the water, meaning the electrode and arc are exposed to the surrounding environment. This method is widely used for emergency repairs, offshore installations, and marine maintenance.

2. Dry (Hyperbaric) Welding

Dry welding is conducted inside a sealed, pressurized chamber that keeps the welding environment dry. This technique provides higher-quality welds and is commonly used for deep-sea applications.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Electrodes for Underwater Welding

Selecting the right electrode involves considering several factors:

  • Waterproof Coating: Prevents water ingress, ensuring arc stability and reducing weld defects.
  • Arc Stability: Maintains consistent heat and penetration, critical for quality welds.
  • Hydrogen Absorption: Electrodes with low hydrogen content prevent cracking.
  • Base Metal Compatibility: Must match the composition and mechanical properties of the material being welded.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Essential for welding in saltwater environments.

Best Electrodes for Wet Underwater Welding

For wet welding, specialized electrodes are required to maintain performance despite water exposure. The most commonly used ones include:

1. E6013

  • Suitable for general-purpose underwater welding.
  • Produces smooth welds with moderate penetration.
  • Works well on mild steel and similar metals.

2. E7014

  • Offers higher deposition rates.
  • Ideal for projects requiring faster welding speeds.
  • Provides better mechanical properties than E6013.

3. E7018 (Low Hydrogen Electrode)

  • Used for critical welding applications.
  • Reduces hydrogen-induced cracking.
  • Works well on high-strength steel.

4. E308 and E309 (Stainless Steel Electrodes)

  • Used for welding dissimilar metals and stainless steel.
  • Highly resistant to corrosion in marine environments.

5. Hydroweld FS

  • A specialized waterproof electrode designed for wet welding.
  • Provides excellent arc stability and high-quality welds.
  • Commonly used in offshore applications.

Best Electrodes for Dry (Hyperbaric) Underwater Welding

Since dry welding occurs in a controlled environment, standard electrodes can be used, provided they match the base material and mechanical requirements. Some of the most common choices include:

1. E6010 and E6011

  • Deep penetration capability.
  • Suitable for root passes and pipe welding.

2. E7018

  • Low hydrogen electrode prevents cracking.
  • Offers excellent mechanical properties.

3. E309L and E316L (Stainless Steel Electrodes)

  • Designed for welding stainless steel and dissimilar metals.
  • Provide high corrosion resistance in marine conditions.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Underwater Welding Electrodes

Electrode TypeAdvantagesDisadvantages
E6013Easy to use, smooth weldsModerate penetration
E7014Higher deposition rateLess control over arc
E7018Strong, crack-resistant weldsRequires proper storage to prevent moisture absorption
E308/E309Corrosion-resistantMore expensive
Hydroweld FSDesigned for underwater welding, stable arcHigher cost

Conclusion

Choosing the right electrode for underwater welding depends on the welding type (wet or dry), the base metal, and the environmental conditions. Wet welding requires waterproof electrodes like Hydroweld FS, E7018, and E308, while dry welding can use standard electrodes such as E6010, E7018, and E309L. Selecting the correct electrode ensures strong, durable, and high-quality welds, which are essential for underwater structures and repairs.

By understanding the properties and applications of each electrode type, welders can enhance safety, efficiency, and weld integrity in underwater welding projects.

How Bluetooth Welding Helmets Work – A Complete Guide for Welders

How Bluetooth Welding Helmets Work – A Complete Guide for Welders

by | Jan 27, 2025 | Buying Guide

As technology advances, there are also many improvements in welding helmets. Manufacturers are trying to compete with others to advance the welding helmet. Here is a great example, Bluetooth welding helmet. It communicates with a power source of welding helmets via Bluetooth. That is an excellent feature of a welding helmet.

Because of the Bluetooth feature in the welding helmet, it darkens before ignition, so don’t wait for the arc flashlight. Another great benefit of this Bluetooth welding helmet is that there is no issue with external light. It darkens according to the welding situation to ensure the safety and comfort of the welder. Because of these excellent features, this is one of the best welding helmets for beginners. Here we discuss its features and working.

How Bluetooth Welding Helmet Works

Before using a Bluetooth welding helmet, it’s imperative to know the working mechanism of an auto-darkening welding helmet. It will help you to understand the functionality of advanced technology Bluetooth welding hoods. In this method, Vizor is connected to the power source with the help of Bluetooth. As the user presses the On-button on the welding torch, the power source sends a signal to the welding helmet so the welding helmet darkens before the arc ignition. So, it protects the welder from rapid flashlights from the arc.

On the other hand, most welding helmets darken when there comes an arc flash. However, with this new technology, such as Bluetooth welding helmets, users don’t need to worry about flashlights. So, this advanced welding helmet with Bluetooth boots the user efficiency. Another benefit of this Bluetooth welding hood is that the auto-darkening filter saves users from arc flashing. The reason behind it is that this helmet responds to the signals sent by the power source. Therefore, it is an excellent product for welders. Also check top gold welding helmets.

The best thing about this Bluetooth welding helmet is the level of protection that is automatically adjusted between DIN5 and DIN12 concerning the welding process. Therefore, no need to worry because the darkness level is perfectly adapted. Welding helmets with Bluetooth also have the option of manual mode and adjusting darkness.

Fronius Bluetooth Welding Helmet

This advanced Bluetooth technology is not common, but the Fronius Bluetooth welding helmet is an excellent choice for many welders. It has incredible features and excellent quality material. Vizor connect in Fronius welding helmet eliminates the external light interference and provides perfect working conditions to the welder.

Clear View of Fronius Bluetooth Welding Helmet

This welding helmet with Bluetooth is an excellent choice for different kinds of welding operations. Users also can use it as a conventional welding helmet by turning off its Bluetooth feature. In the case of a conventional setting, it darkens in the presence of certain light intensities.

However, when the welding helmet is not darkened, a user can get a clear view with real color perception and a 2.5 brightness level. It also has specially made UV (ultraviolet) and IR (infrared) filters. The unique shape of this Bluetooth welding helmet gives an unobstructed line of sight and provides great comfort. This distinct shape increases the view area and decreases the weight of this welding helmet.

Features of Fronius Welding Helmet

  • This welding helmet offers complete protection against arc because of advanced Bluetooth low-energy technology.
  • The auto-darkening filter cartridge in the Fronius welding helmet darkens automatically and protects arc intensity.
  • It is supported by solar cells and you can charge the lithium polymer battery in it.
  • The special nose-cut shape of this Bluetooth welding helmet provides six times more vision area than conventional welding helmets.
  • This welding hood has a 2.5 shade level brightness that is excellent for pre-fabrication works, so no need to remove and put back the helmet again and again.
  • Special UV and IR filters have been used to provide the true color view.
  • The optical lens of the Fronius welding helmet is 1/1/1/2.

Read More: Best Auto-Darkening Welding Lens

Conclusion:

After reading the complete article, you will know very well about the workings, advantages, and features of the Vizor Connect Bluetooth welding helmet. It is the only welding helmet in its class. You don’t need to worry about choosing this welding helmet. It is compatible with Fronius MagicWave 230i, TransTig 230i and TPS/i. The autopilot in this Bluetooth welding helmet adjusts the level of protection according to arc intensity. So, Choose this excellent welding helmet for comfort and safety.

Read More: Best Women Welding Helmet

Safety Risks Every Welder Should Be Aware Of

Safety Risks Every Welder Should Be Aware Of

by | Jan 21, 2025 | Buying Guide

Welding is a hazardous job with very high risks involved. Millions of workers are subjected to safety risks involved in welding. At the same time, we cannot eliminate the welding profession since it is a job that our society needs. We must encourage workers to take as many preventive measures as possible. Providing proper training and educating workers on the safety risks are a couple of ways to equip them to face the dangers of welding.

Informing welders about safety risks is an essential step toward preventing any accidents from taking place. They need to know what to avoid and how to protect themselves from unseen dangers. Every welder should be aware of the risks involved. In this article, we will inform you about safety risks that a welder may potentially have to expose themselves to. Let’s dive in.

1. Confined Space

Working in a confined space is a health hazard. There is a lack of oxygen in the room, followed by the fact that you are working with inert gases while welding. This can be extremely dangerous and a safety hazard. Gasses tend to react with each other and may potentially create harmful chemicals like rust which is why a ventilated environment is crucial.

Oxygen inside tanks and pipes makes it all the riskier. To avoid this, try to find an alternative to working in such spaces. If that is not attainable, use a safety system of work. There are also special welding helmets for tight spaces. It is always recommended to use all safety gears while welding

2. Fire And Explosions

Before you begin welding, you should remove all flammable material from the area you work in, such as wood and fabric. Any hot work executed during welding should be monitored and done very carefully. Although hot work cannot be done anywhere safely and must have a dedicated space, it is possible to keep a close eye on clear inflammable material.

Welders should also monitor hot work until an hour later to ensure no sparks or small flames have been ignited or are on the verge of igniting. Another health hazard under this is the smoke from sparks or hot work executed.

3. Electrical Hazard

Welding naturally requires an electrical circuit as a part of the welding process. Therefore, whenever a welder handles electrical equipment, they may be exposed or at risk of receiving electrical shocks. Electrical circuit breakers can protect welders from getting electrocuted. The welder is responsible for ensuring that the equipment is free from defects.

Welders are also instructed to report any as soon as one is spotted. Avoid welding in damp areas and inside metal structures to decrease the chances of electric shocks. An insulating mat would be helpful in this instance.

4. Physical Hazards

A lot of accidents tend to be the cause of slips and trips. This can also be because of inadequate arrangement or structure of the workplace that can cause a welder to slip and fall. Companies should work towards managing this to minimize or eliminate the risks of tripping over things like wires, imbalanced flooring, etc. It is not costly. It requires a lot of care and monitoring, which is crucial to implement in a welding environment.

Other physical hazards include cuts which are highly common due to the nature of the profession. Crushed toes and crushed fingers also happen a lot because of the involvement of dealing with or carrying heavy objects. You can prevent this by using protective gear or PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) at all times and at all costs.

Conclusion of Safety Risks While Welding:

Welding in a confined space can be dangerous due to the lack of ventilation since there is a dealing of inert gasses, which can make toxic chemicals. There are also huge risks of fire and explosions, especially when you conduct hot work. Since welding requires handling electrical equipment, this increases the chances of getting electrocuted.

Other physical accidents are cuts, burns, slips, and crushed fingers or toes. Therefore, always wear welding gloves and working boots during welding. Being educated on the risks is essential to ensure you minimize the chances of any of these events taking place. We hope this article helped give you enough insight into the safety risks involved in welding. Thank you for reading!

Death Rate for Underwater Welders | How Fatal is Underwater Welding?

Death Rate for Underwater Welders | How Fatal is Underwater Welding?

by | Jan 2, 2025 | Buying Guide

Underwater welding is the process of welding at elevated pressures, normally underwater. This type of welding is also known as hyperbaric welding. It is performed while the welder is submerged, often at elevated barometric pressures. The two categories considered are dry welding and wet welding. In dry welding, the welder welds in a dry environment and creates it by placing a hyperbaric chamber. In wet welding, the welder dives into the water to do welding using a specially designed welding rod. You should keep one thing in mind underwater welding is not an easy task, many welders die during this job. Here we discuss the death rate for underwater welders in detail.

Death Rate for Underwater Welders and Their Life Expectancy

Do you wonder about the life expectancy of underwater welders??? Well, due to the high chances of fatalities, it is short! The previous research found the estimated average age of an underwater welder to be 35-40 years, as compared to the general human life expectancy to be 72.6 years. The high risks causing long-term injuries or deaths impute to it. Welding itself can be a threatening profession and combined with the dangers of diving into deep seawater, the certainty of injury and death worsens. Not for the faint-hearted, the job requires not only elevated skills and expertise but also hard-headedness, focus and infinite concentration.

Underwater welding jobs offer the most attractive salaries because of high fatality rates. There is also an imperative question of how much underwater welders make in a year. According to commercial divers and global statistics, the average welding underwater salary is $53,990 annually and $25.96 per hour. Most of the incomes hover around $25,000-$80,000. Diver welders in the top make $83,730 while the extremity drags $30,700. In a total population of about 10,000 underwater welders, the scope of work is huge and hence the salary is almost guaranteed.

Because the death rate for underwater welders is high compared to other kinds of welding and other professions. Therefore, it is ranked as America’s deadliest maritime job and occupation. The work requires the divers to have extensive training and experience to follow specific safety protocols before and while performing the tasks. In addition to receiving highly specialized training, welders should be kept under strict supervision and given appropriate and well-maintained equipment. The death rate should be a guiding principle to know the liability and necessity of trade.

How Often Do Underwater Welders Die?

You are still scratching your head, wondering whether this job would work for you. Well, due to the high hazard connected to the trade, the safety statistics are denoted by a welding underwater death rate. Out of 3000 full-time welders, 5 lose their lives annually. This translates into about 50 deaths out of 1000 in underwater welding life expectancy term of a welder. And this is pretty high!

However, with the advanced use of technologies and safety protocols, the death rate of underwater welders has gone down. As per older records and present statistics, around 11 underwater welders die each year. As this profession is attached to hazards, for any diver, there are risks of decompression sickness, hypothermia and drowning in the event of an equipment failure. Welders are posed with the danger of electric shock, muscle aches, memory issues and cognitive ability.

Because the diligence of the job can be pretty demanding and the risks can be many, we’ll clarify the risks welders face every day and explain how incidents happen and point out a few critical notices to be considered fully. By the end of the article, you’ll become acquainted with and be able to tell it is worth the risk!

Why Do Underwater Welders Die?

 Underwater welders face many risks every day. Here we point out some causes of the high death rate for underwater welders.

  • Decompression sickness
  • Hypothermia
  • Drowning
  • Electrocution
  • Environmental hazards
  • Explosion fatalities

Underwater welders also face various environmental risks, equipment failure and underwater welding accidents. Also, read these safety risks while welding that every welder should be aware of.

Decompression Sickness – Barotrauma

Decompression sickness also called generalized barotrauma or the bends refers to injuries caused by a rapid decrease in the pressure that surrounds you, of either water or air, while moving between different pressure zones.

Divers use extra oxygen and nitrogen, where nitrogen and other harmful gases dissolve in the blood. As the diver swims back to the surface, water pressure changes. If water pressure changes too quickly, nitrogen separates from the diver’s blood. That way, nitrogen forms bubbles in blood and tissue. Dangerous bubbles causing decompression sickness are the leading cause of fatality. The symptoms are:

  • Weakness in the extremities
  • Pain in the joints
  • Excessive fatigue
  • Numbness and tingling
  • Headache

Treatment is usually hyperbaric oxygen therapy in a recompression chamber and has a high recovery rate if treated early.

Hypothermia – Exposure to Colds

It occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce heat, causing a dangerously low body temperature. During deep commercial diving where welders spend hours in the water, their bodies are exposed to cold temperatures. Low temperatures can be dangerous when breathing the oxygen and helium mixtures.

If there is no adequate gas heating for an extended period, lings can freeze and the diver may suffer from hypothermia. The temperature of the body goes below 95F. Specific physiological symptoms occur like confusion, organ failure and respiratory problems; some of them can even be fatal. As a safety measure, underwater welders should always wear a properly insulated rubber wetsuit.

Drowning

It can even happen to professionals. The biggest and the leading cause of death rate for underwater welders even today is drowning. Trust me when I say! Even experienced underwater welders can drown. Even by following all the safety protocols, welders can get entangled or pinned by their welding equipment when visibility drops as they dive deeper into the water. There was a scientific study where 947 diving accidents between 1992 and 2003 were monitored. The study shows that 70 victims who drowned died because of diving-related injuries, equipment malfunctioning, air supply issues and cardiac arrests.

Even today drowning occurs if you have a pack full of oxygen tank to wear all the required safety equipment. To reduce the risk you should stay hydrated, make sure you don’t work tired and keep inspecting your oxygen tank. The differential pressures present a unique risk to the divers, as they are not easy to detect. Once you become trapped in the flow, it becomes hard to escape. Sometimes, drowning can be caused by poorly maintained or old gear such as an oxygen tank, mask or hose.

Electrocution – Death Due to Electric Shock

The link between electricity and water is the first thing considered when discussing underwater welding. Even though the water itself is not a good conductor, seawater contains ions of salts and metals that increase conducting properties. Welders use either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC) power supply, insulated electrodes and the required equipment. To avoid any type of accident you must test your welding helmet before any kind of welding operation.

But, remember that wet welding is a much more exact science. So before welding underwater, divers take all the necessary precautions while joining metals in water. Safety measures include extra protection, a rubberized dry suit, and specialized waterproof equipment. In addition, safety measures make commercial diving pretty safe from electric shock.

Remember that underwater welding jobs also include salvage, inspections, and material installation. Therefore, all of the named jobs can be considered underwater construction. Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) conducted a study that shows that only one underwater welder died due to electric shock. This incident occurred in 1943 in the Deep-Sea Diving School.

All workplaces must be waterproof and properly insulated. Three factors that are responsible for causing electric shock in welders are:

  1. Failure in welder’s equipment.
  2. Faults and interruptions in the grounding cable.
  3. The diver positions himself between the fault and the earth’s ground.

Environmental Hazards

Welders underwater work in many different environments, including offshore oil rigs, dams, oceans, lakes and rivers. Unfortunately, every environment contains potential dangers that less experienced welders are not ready to deal with. One scientific study shows that 36% of underwater welding deaths occurred because of difficult water conditions. These factors increase commercial diving risks, reduce their life expectancy and increase the death rate for underwater welders.

  • Rough water conditions
  • Underwater obstacles
  • Explosions
  • Strong currents
  • Poor visibility
  • Surges in a wave movement

Underwater welders operate in some of the most extreme depths imaginable, down to 2500m (8200ft.). These unnatural operating depths may expose divers to a host of operating complications such as:

  • Impaired judgement
  • Reduced visibility
  • Increased air consumption
  • Nitrogen necrosis
  • Slower buoyancy compensator response
  • Decompression sickness
  • Hypothermia

Explosion Fatalities

One of the rare but potential hazards of underwater welders’ death is explosions. They occur once hydrogen and oxygen combine in the surrounding water, creating gas pockets. Once they ignite, gas pockets will cause an explosion. In addition, fuel stored in marine vessels and offshore oil rigs can also ignite and lead to death or severe injuries.

Read More: Why Underwater Welding is so Dangerous

Differential Pressure (Delta P Deaths)

Differential pressure is responsible for 7% of all reported underwater welding accidents. So that rate puts this hazard on top of the list. Delta P is standard when water moves from a high-pressure to a lower-pressure area. Accidents happen when welders open a valve, cut into space, or engage a pump. The height difference between the two bodies generates a suction force. Therefore, the more significant the height or pressure difference, the more dangerous the suction force is as the power is more substantial.

The biggest problem is that you cannot detect potential Delta P situations visually. It all happens very suddenly, and trying to pull out your arm or a leg, feels like trying to lift the car with it. To reduce the risk, welders must first be aware of it. When there is a potential Delta P situation in the work area, the fluid mechanic calculation will determine the safe zone. Usually, before the work, you’ll get all the required information. However, if you still doubt, you can use the Continuity Equation, Torricelli’s Equation, and the Drag Equation to calculate the safe zone by yourself.

Keep in mind that Delta P hazard is present in your domestic swimming pool or even spa, so you don’t need to be an underwater welder to be at risk. Fatalities may even occur at depths as low as 3 meters or less by the substantial suction forces present in large openings, even when there is a slight difference in water levels. Differential pressure hazards or Delta P hazards are usually identified before welding and should have the proper lockout/tag procedures in place or double isolation to protect from injuries.

Other Threats

There is also a threat inherent in marine life such as sharks and deadly stingrays for an underwater welder to fear coupled with poor visibility, welders might snag scuba equipment on underwater hazards. Likewise, pressure changes were seen during ascent and descent, strong currents, contaminated water and trappings also lead to a certain death rate in underwater welders.

Disabling injury: By the time the rescue team reaches the diver, they are already out of the air.

Triggering event: Diver’s cords are twisted.

Harmful/Disabling Event: The diver panics, which leads to breaking the line.

Host Factors: The main cause is the level of experience. Sometimes behavioral dysfunction is accounted for.

Environmental Factors: Supervisor/tender errors, equipment failure.

Underwater Welders Death Rate – How Risky Is It?

Various studies show different death rates for underwater welders. The first one was released by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which published the data monitored between 1989 and 1997. According to their numbers, there was an average of five underwater welder deaths in nearly ten years.

According to past OSHA reports, there are an average of 6-13 diving-related deaths every year. Unfortunately, there are no recent statistics that monitor the underwater welder’s annual death rate. In addition, OSHA safety standards on commercial diving haven’t been updated since 1978. Nevertheless, there are promises that new safety protocols are being developed and implemented every year. Still, older studies show that drowning is a leading cause of underwater welders’ deaths, while they state that approximately 11 underwater welders die every year.

While the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not track fatality rates of underwater welders, a study conducted in 2018 shows that for every 100,000 workers in the US, about 3.5 of them die on their jobs every year. The study identified five jobs that come with potential risks. Underwater welding was listed as the top dangerous profession with nearly a 15% fatality rate, followed by aeronautics with 5%, logging with 0.13%, fishing with 0.12%, and aeroplane piloting with a 0.07% fatality rate.

Conclusion:

Underwater welding offers the opportunity for travel, adventure, and lucrative pay. Salaries in underwater welding can vary widely. But it can be more lucrative than welding strictly on dryland due to the training involved, the environment they work in, and the amount of risk involved. If you are ready to take the risk, you can earn quite a few bucks. Welders that go through training reduce the risk of possible injuries and hazards. Our expert advice for all underwater welders is first to get proper training in underwater welding and gain knowledge about its difficulties. In this way, we can reduce the death rate for underwater welders.

Read More: Guide To Underwater Welding Helmet

FAQs

How many underwater welders die each year?

According to recent searches, there are about 11 underwater welders die each year. The main reason for the high death rate for underwater welding is drowning.

Is underwater welding risky?

Yes, underwater welding is more risky than normal welding. You can get an idea of it by seeing the high death rate for underwater welders.

Do underwater welders get attacked by sharks?

Normally underwater welders are safe from marine wildlife because they are conscious of marine wildlife such as sharks and other creatures.

How to Choose a Welding Helmet – Welding Helmet Guide

How to Choose a Welding Helmet – Welding Helmet Guide

by | Nov 26, 2024 | Buying Guide

The welding helmet is imperative for welders while doing any kind of welding operation. Therefore, it is vital to choose the best welding helmet. But many welders especially beginners don’t know what factors to consider while choosing a welding helmet. There are many advantages of using a high-quality welding helmet, it not only boosts a welder’s productivity but also keeps him safe during all kinds of welding operations.

There are many advantages to using a quality welding hood. It will protect the welder from sparks and radiation. Another great benefit of a welding helmet is that it will also help you to get better weld quality. Here we discuss how to choose a welding helmet. This article is going to be very helpful for people who want to choose a new hood for welding. Before buying a welding hood, one must know how an auto-darkening welding helmet works. It will help you to make the right decision.

Welding Helmet Working

There is intense light produced during welding operations that can be damaging to the eyes of the welder. These lights can be ultraviolet, infrared or visible. There is a lens and liquid crystal material in the welding helmet when it senses the flashing light of arc welding, it automatically changes its shade and darkens. So, the welding lens protects the eyes of the welder from flashing light. Sparks and hot molten metal can also cause burns to welders. A welder’s skin and eyes are shielded by putting on a welding hood.

A nonflammable face shield is attached to the welder’s head with an adjustable strap in the most basic helmets. A lens is enclosed within this rectangle and is protected by a safety screen. To protect the welder’s eyes from the many forms of hazardous light emitted by the arc, the lens is coated and blackened. The darker the shade during welding is better for the welder. There are different kinds of shade lenses for welding, here is the best shade lens for MIG welding.

Factors to Consider While Choosing the Welding Helmet

There are many factors that you should keep in mind while choosing a welding helmet. As all the features are vital, don’t undermine anything. You should never compromise on the quality and response time of a welding helmet. Because these are vital in choosing a welding helmet. We have also covered the best welding helmet for beginners which includes all welding helmets that are best for newbies.

Welding Helmet Should be Comfortable

If you want great results then it is vital to choose a comfortable welding helmet. It helps welders to work for a long time and produce the best results. A completely manageable head harness with various adjustment points and a balanced weight distribution ensures a custom fit. The Speedglas 9100 series welding helmets are highly compatible with a variety of extra neck covers, head coverings and welding earmuffs.

Welding Helmet Should Be Versatile

Because no two jobs are alike, a welding helmet should be adaptable to a variety of conditions. Consider a welding helmet that is customized to your specific needs and job requirements. Whether you need overhead security, a flip-front visor for regular grinding and dependable respite. Here is an excellent quality versatile welding helmet for professionals.

Consider the Type of Lens

The type and quality of the lens are some of the most critical components when choosing a welding helmet. Passive lenses are typically made of polycarbonate plastic while auto-darkening lenses are typically composed of liquid crystal display glass. Auto-darkening lenses are preferred because they offer more utility and productivity than their passive equivalents.

The visual clarity of the surrounding environment is important to welders. So, they must know how to clean welding helmet lenses. A large viewing area welding hood is preferable. Therefore, welders typically choose a welding helmet with a larger viewing area.

While choosing a welding helmet there also come some questions in the mind of the buyer will the workpiece be visible to me while welding? Is it possible for me to see the welding object during and after the welding process? If you buy a good welding hood, you don’t need to worry about it.

Auto-Darkening Lens

You can resolve the visibility issues by using an auto-darkening lens. When not in use, an auto-darkening lens has a shade of #3 or #4, which is reasonably light and easy to look through. When the sensors on the helmet detect an arc, the lens immediately darkens to shades # 8 to # 13 in a fraction of a second.

Because the auto-darkening welding helmet stays in position before, during and after the weld. These are some of the benefits of auto-darkening welding helmets that’s why people love to choose such types of welding helmets. We have also covered the difference between auto-darkening and passive welding helmets.

True Color

Auto-darkening lenses enable a broader range of visible light via filter, which is a relatively new advancement in optics technology. This technique is referred to as “true color” or “real color.” The buyer should know in which state of the helmet the true-color characteristic appears. Some manufacturers emphasize genuine color in the inactive state. When the sensors in an auto-darkening helmet do not detect an arc, it enters into an inactive state.

The auto-darkening shade is frequently a #3 or #4 in the inactive state, which is already quite transparent. The benefit of real or true color is that it is preserved throughout the process. There are a lot of resources on the internet guiding about helmets. Here are some quality helmet blogs that will help you in getting reliable knowledge.

Initial Cost and Operational Expenses

It is no surprise that adding new and enhanced features will raise the price of a helmet so, the initial cost is a major consideration when selecting a welding helmet. Therefore, it is vital to choose a helmet that is cost-effective and has all the necessary features. We have also covered the best welding helmets under $200 which includes excellent welding helmets. One thing that you should never compromise is the quality of the welding helmet. Because if you buy a cheap welding helmet you are saving money but it will cost more in the long run.

Reaction Time of the Welding Helmet

When welding begins, the lens switches frequency according to the light emitted which is known as reaction time. It relates to how fast a lens changes its state from the initial state to a shade number 3 or 4. It is measured in fractions of a second up to a millionth of a second.

If your job is to do welding for hours, a lazy switching welding helmet may cause inconvenience at the end of the day. If that’s the scenario in your case and you’re wondering how to choose an excellent welding helmet. Buying a welding helmet with intermediate or professional switching speeds is a fantastic choice.

Read More: Best Cool Welding Helmets

Battery, Solar Powered or Both

Auto-darkening helmets are available in several power sources. Some variants contain non-replaceable internal batteries and some with solar assist panels. Others feature solar aid panels and removable batteries. Some have lithium batteries, which are excellent for longer battery life. Some solar-assist helmets require charging from direct sunlight before they can be utilized.

Lithium batteries are considerably more expensive. The choice here is probably a personal one, but AAA battery-operated is the best option for wide availability and low replacement costs. Choose lithium for longer battery life.

Consider Safety Standards While Choosing a Welding Helmet

Regardless of the kind of welding procedure, welders must prioritize the use of excellent personal protection equipment and safe welding techniques. Eye, face, hand and body protection are all examples of welding PPE. Although there is no need for safety glasses under the welding helmet. Furthermore, the welding area has proper ventilation and respiratory security.

Safety and compliance are two of the most important characteristics of any helmet. Welding helmets must fulfil ANSI requirements in the United States, and CSA compliance is required in Canada. A welder can also protect his face from sunlight by wearing a helmet hood.

Conclusion

We have discussed some critical factors you should consider before choosing the best welding helmets. After reading the complete article, now you are in a strong position to choose an excellent welding helmet. A lightweight helmet puts less stress on the user’s neck, which reduces fatigue and improves comfort.

The latest auto-darkening helmets typically include features such as aluminium heat safety to secure the lens from high heat (300+ amps) applications, silver coloration to reflect heat far away from the welder, gaskets for shock intake and increased longevity. These are some features that one must consider while buying a welding helmet.

Read More: Best Auto-Darkening Welding Helmets Under $100

Which is the Best Way to Clean Welding Helmet Lens

Which is the Best Way to Clean Welding Helmet Lens

by | Nov 8, 2024 | Buying Guide

No safety gear is more important than the welding helmet. Either you weld by hobby or by profession. You must use a welding helmet or welding goggles. It is imperative from a safety perspective. Let it also admit that the welding workshop and any other place where welding operations are carried out is not a clean place. So, the environment, as well as the welding operation, makes your welding lens dirty.

Therefore, many questions arise in this perspective like how to keep welding lenses clean and what is the best way to clean welding helmet lenses. Because no one wants to leave his expensive or cheap welding lens before the expected life span. Therefore, you should be careful while choosing the welding helmet. There are many ways to answer the question of how to clean a welding lens. Here we will discuss the best ways of cleaning welding helmet lenses.

Material Required to Clean Welding Helmet Lens

It depends upon the type of welding helmets. But usually, the following materials are used for the cleaning of the welding helmet lens.

Soft cloth or tissues:

It’s not every type of cloth but a special type of soft cloth or tissue.

Room temperature water:

It is required for the cleaning of a clear lens. Don’t use it for the auto-darkening lens. Otherwise, it will damage the lens.

Smooth bristled brush:

Use the smooth bristled brush to remove debris and dirt before applying any kind of non-stick cleaning material like cream. The special cleaning solution that’s safe for lenses

You have to require some other accessories along with the recommended material. These accessories are screws, screwdrivers, and manuals. Manual describes special requirements for cleaning the lens.

Which is the Best Way to Clean Welding Helmet Lens

The lens is very sensitive. To keep it away from scratches use a special type of very soft-bristled brush. This brush helps to remove the abrasive material from the lens surface without producing any kind of scratches on your lens. When you once remove the abrasive dirt from the welding helmet lens. Then go through the condition of the lens. If it is clear then it is fine. Otherwise, it requires some kind of special cleaning process.

After review, if you find that there is more dirt and it is required to clean the welding helmet lens. There is a special type of non-adhering cream, suitable for the welding helmet lens. Apply this cream on your welding helmet lens. Take a UV protectant fiber cloth. Gently clean the surface of the welding helmet lens. If it is an ordinary lens then use mild hot water to clean the surface. Otherwise, just dry the lens. Try to dry it properly. If there remains any kind of wet place on the lens. It will obstruct the vision of the welder.

Things to Avoid While Cleaning Your Lens

There are some common mistakes that prove very dangerous for your welding helmet lens. Otherwise, there will end your welding helmet lens life. Then there is no option other than to change the welding helmet lens.

Using a Scrub Brush

Scrub brush creates scratches on the lens. Instead of using a scrub brush, use a soft-bristled brush to remove the initial layer of dust. This brush wipes away the initial layer of dust without any kind of scratches. After this removal, you are able to see how much the lens is cleaned.

Using Brushes to Scrub

You must use the soft-bristled brush for the removal of the initial layer of grime. If you use it further on the lens then it will ruin your welding helmet lens. For the further removal of grime, the layer must use a special type of cloth.

Using Big Strokes

While cleaning avoids form jerky and large moments. Instead of large and jerky movements, use small strokes to clean the lens. Large and jerky movements can scratch the lens. This leads to shortening the life span of your welding helmet lens. Due to scratches, there will be more dust accumulation next time and while using the helmet you will get a blurry view.

How to Clean Scratches from Lenses?

With the passage of time even with too much care, scratches are there on the welding helmet lens. Then buffing is a great option to clean scratches on the welding helmet.

Buffing

Removal of scratches will be a wonder and this wonder easily happens with a buffing wheel and dab of buffing compound. Apply light buffing compound of the buffing wheel. Then turn it on until it gains its steady motion in sense spinning. Move your lens gently across the spinning wheel. Apply pressure that is enough for welding helmet lenses. This procedure takes a few minutes of precious time. After buffing there will be a polished and scratch-free lens. Buffing can be done up to a certain point. After that point, the only option remains to change your lens.

Rubbing Compound

To get a scratch-free lens, the second option is to use a rubbing compound. There are many rubbing compounds like 3M Rubbing Compound 05973 for the removal of scratches. They remove the scratches along with stains, surface marks, and oxidation. These compounds vary the type of lens material. Like the above-discussed compound is suitable for Polycarbonate surfaces.

These compounds are mostly a bit pricey. But no need to worry about this because it requires only a few drops for cleaning your lens. So, they will last for a long time. Apply a few drops of rubbing compound on the lens and rub it with a microfiber cloth or with a terry cloth. There is quick removal of surface junk within a short time. Apply a little more compound and then rub the cloth again against the lens. Small scratches also will come out.

To avoid smudged and bleary views, completely dry the lens after using such a compound. Take a piece of a soft cloth and move it in a small and circular motion. This will increase the life of the lens more than the estimated lifespan of welding helmet lenses.

How to Keep Lenses Clean

The answer of how to keep welding lenses clean is also a trick for the best way to clean welding helmet lenses. Use some polish like furniture polish along with wax and car polish with wax. Polish helps to remove the layer of dirt and leave a film behind which prevents it from scratches as well. This also helps to keep from blurry and smudged views. Polish also fill the fine scratch places. But be very careful while applying it. Don’t leave any spot behind it can cause the reflection of the light and blur the view while welding operation.

How a Welding Lens Gets Dirty

A welding helmet is directly exposed in front of this intense environment. It is hit by slag, fire, and metal pieces. Along with this, the environment of any workshop or workplace is not so clean. All of these things make its lens dirty. This may be in the form of dust or in kind of scratches. Other than this heated environment improper cleaning like sometimes workers cleaning its lens with their dirty shirts leads to scratches on the lens.

How Can You Increase the Life of a Welding Helmet Lens?

You can increase the lifespan of your welding helmet lens by following little hacks.

Clean Daily

You may be surprised by reading clean daily! Yes, after every time you use your welding helmet you must clean it properly.

It takes less time to clean your welding helmet as compared to cleaning it off and on. Other than this will increase the lifespan of your welding helmet lens.

Store Properly

After using the welding helmet, store it in the proper space.  While storing, use its bag to store it.

Improper storage and without bag storage can cause the chance of falling and dirty its lens very soon. Falling leads to losing your money.

Can we use any kind of cloth or tissue for cleaning of welding helmet lens?

You can’t use any kind of cloth or tissue for cleaning the welding helmet lens. There is a special type of UV protectant lens cleaning microfiber towel.

What happens when the welding helmet is not cleaned properly?

If you don’t adopt the best way to clean welding helmet lenses, then the life of welding helmets will decrease. Along with life, it will be economically burdened on the welding helmet owner. It also affects the efficiency of the welding operations. If you read this article till the end then you will come to know the best way to clean welding helmet lenses.

When should you get a new welding lens?

It depends on the situation. If you have tried all three discussed methods but there is still a blurry and smudged view then it is time to change the welding helmet lens. We have also covered the best welding helmets. So, read our list of top welding helmets.

 

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