Buying Guide - Welding Helmet Reviews

5 Difference Between Auto Darkening Welding Helmet Vs Passive

by James | Feb 21, 2022 | Buying Guide

If you are ready to jump into the welding occupation either by profession or by hobby, then you are searching for how to choose a welding helmet. For any type of welding operation, Welding helmets are necessary. These Welding helmets are classified into two major categories, active or auto-darkening welding helmets and passive welding helmets. Both types have their strengths and weaknesses. It’s necessary to open a discussion about Auto-darkening welding helmets vs passive.

If you are looking for a comparison between an auto-darkening welding helmet and a passive one, then you are at the right place. After reading this article, you will get a clear picture of these welding helmets.

5 Key Differences Between Auto Darkening Welding Helmet Vs Passive

Here are five key differences between Auto-darkening welding helmets vs Passive that will clear your mind about the selection of welding helmets for your work.

The primary difference between auto-darkening vs passive welding helmets is a sensor. In an auto-darkening welding helmet, sensors are present that are powered by batteries. On the other hand, a passive welding helmet consists of a fixed shade lens supported by a transparent lens. You can also check the best auto-darkening welding helmet under $200. Here are some differences between auto-darkening and passive welding helmets.

Auto-darkening welding helmets are costly, and on the other hand, passive welding helmets are cheap ones.
Auto-darkening welding helmets help a lot of beginners to thrive in business. While the passive ones are for only experienced persons.
Auto-darkening welding helmets work well even in tight spaces. While passive ones are restricted to workshops or comfortable places.
Auto-darkening welding helmets can help to perform different types of welding operations like TIG and MIG. On the contrary, the passive welding helmets don’t offer such a kind of opportunity.

Auto Darkening Welding Helmet

The auto-darkening welding helmets are the genre of welding helmets that arrived in the markets in 1981. Speedgals released the first auto-darkening welding helmet. Soon after the first release, it dominated over the old one. It became popular among welders due to its auto-response to intense light. Let’s have a brief look over this stuff. Here in the following, you will find out different parts of welding helmets and their function.

There are several sensors present in these welding helmets. These sensors detect light’s intensity and activate a specific shade. This shade varies for different welding helmets. Usually, it activates shade number 10 while working. There is a screen in front of the welding helmet. It is just like a TV screen. The screen is composed of many layers of different filters. A welder should test an auto-darkening welding helmet before using it. There is also a dial inside an auto-darkening welding helmet, which allows the welder to set it for the different types of welding operations. All of the automation is possible due to the presence of batteries. Batteries may be electric-powered or solar-powered.

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Advantages

Let’s look at the bright side of these active welding helmets. You can choose an auto-darkening welding helmet due to high-quality production, performs well in tight spaces, welder remains stress-free, saves from random arc flashes, and is a great thing for beginners.

There is no need to change the torch position. It allowed the worker to focus on the welding object by reducing the head nodding.

Welding in tight spaces is a laborious and risky task for every welder. These welding helmets facilitate performing best in such tight spaces for every welder.

Tack or abrupt welding helmet is inevitable in most welding operations. This operation hurts the neck of the welder. These welding helmets are very effective for such kinds of welding operations.
Arc flashes affect the health of a welder as well as the accuracy of the work. Sensors present in auto-darkening welding detect the arc flashes and change the shade with an average of 1/25000 seconds. In this way, they protect the welder.

ADF welding helmets are the best option for beginners. These welding helmets allow them to focus on learning without any fear of arc flashes or nodding their heads.

Disadvantages

There are a few things that prove a roadblock for these welding helmets. They are very costly, require too much care, and have secondary light effects.

One who wants to buy an ADF welding helmet has to pay more than a passive one. The sensors, batteries, and LCD make it costly.
Once there is something wrong with the helmet, your welding task can be a nightmare. So, auto-darkening welding helmet requires more care compared to passive welding helmets.
It is difficult to work under the sun with these helmets. The sunlight intercepts sensors. Other than sunlight, these sensors are also deceived by workshop lights. This is resolved with X-mode technology which is only present in a few welding helmets.

Passive Welding Helmets

Passive welding helmets are very simple in design. There are two lenses present in these welding helmets. The front lens is a fixed shade, usually number 10. The front lens is coated with IR and VR paint to save the welder from high-intensity emitting light. The second lens is transparent. This lens helps to inspect the welding operation. A welder has to flip up and down the front lens. It requires experience to avoid arc flashes.

These welding helmets are the best option in terms of cost, weight, maintenance, clear view, and require only experience.

These welding helmets are cost-effective. The reason behind this, there are no batteries and sensors present in such helmets.
These helmets are light in weight as compared to auto-darkening welding helmets. The reason behind this is that there are no batteries present in these welding helmets. The light-in-weight feature creates comfort for the operator.
Maintenance of these welding helmets is easy. In case of damage to the lens, they can easily be replaced. Other than the replacement, the lens for the welding helmets is economical.
These welding helmets are optically clear than the ADF welding helmets. Because there are only lenses, not an LCD.
Sensors, batteries, sensitivity control, or other things are not required. It requires an extra lens on backup to replace the damaged welding helmet.

Disadvantages

There are also a few drawbacks to these welding helmets. Like these are suitable only for experienced persons, and perform well in the workshop. At a time, Specified with one type of welding operation, and the selection of the right shade is very crucial.

These are only suitable for experienced welders because they are synchronized to flip up and down from the fixed shade lens to inspect the operation.
As there is a lack of electronics, these welding helmets are limited to a few types of welding operations. The welder cannot set it for a different type of welding operation like TIG, and MIG.
As there is only a fixed shade present, there is a need for a proper selection of lenses. Otherwise, one has to face arc flashes.
These welding helmets are limited to indoors. While working under the sun, there is an interruption of sunlight.

Conclusion:

Let’s conclude a comparison between auto-darkening welding helmets vs passive. Best auto-darkening welding helmets are very much suitable for beginners and perform well in different kinds of welding operations like TIG, and MIG. With the X-mode technology, they work well under the sun as well. On the other hand, passive welding helmets match well with experienced guys. They are cost-effective and light in weight.

If you are an experienced one and have to work inside the workshop, then passive welding helmets are the best choice for you because they work well at an economical price. Otherwise, the second option of an ADF welding helmet is much more suitable for you.

FAQs

Is it safe to use an auto-darkening welding helmet?

It all depends upon the user. If the user likes to use an auto-darkening welding helmet, it is the best option for a welder. Because it supports a variety of welding operations. It also minimizes the risk factor and helps the user to provide a quality job.

What should be the response rate of an auto-darkening welding helmet?

On average, the response rate of an auto-darkening welding helmet should be 1/25,000 seconds. Some welding helmets have less reaction time than the average response rate.

How important is a welding helmet important?

A welding helmet is an important safety gear for every welder. It protects the eyes and skin of a welder. Any type of welding is easy due to these welding helmets.

If you are ready to jump into the welding occupation either by profession or by hobby, then you are searching for how to choose a welding helmet. For any type of welding operation, Welding helmets are necessary. These Welding helmets are classified into two major categories, active or auto-darkening welding helmets and passive welding helmets. Both types have their strengths and weakness. It’s necessary to open a discussion about Auto-darkening welding helmets vs passive.

If you are looking for a comparison between an auto-darkening welding helmet and passive, then you are at the right place. After reading this article, you will get a clear picture of these welding helmets.

5 Key Difference Between Auto Darkening Welding Helmet Vs Passive

Here are five key-difference between Auto-darkening welding helmets vs Passive that will clear your mind about the selection of welding helmets for your work.

The primary difference between auto-darkening vs passive welding helmets is a sensor. In an auto-darkening welding helmet, sensors are present that are powered by batteries. On the other hand, a passive welding helmet consists of a fixed shade lens supported with a transparent lens. You can also check the best auto-darkening welding helmet under $200. Here are some differences between auto-darkening and passive welding helmets.

Auto-darkening welding helmets are costly, and on the other hand, passive welding helmets are cheap ones.
Auto-darkening welding helmets help a lot of beginners to thrive in business. While the passive ones are for only experienced persons.
Auto-darkening welding helmets work well even in tight spaces. While passive ones are restricted to the workshops or comfortable places.
Auto-darkening welding helmets can help to perform different types of welding operations like TIG and MIG. On the contrary, the passive welding helmets don’t offer such a kind of opportunity.

Auto Darkening Welding Helmet

There are several sensors present in these welding helmets. These sensors detect light’s intensity and activate a specific shade. This shade varies for different welding helmets. Usually, it activates shade number 10 while working. There is a screen in front of the welding helmet. It is just like a TV screen. The screen is composed of many layers of different filters. A welder should test an auto-darkening welding helmet before using it. There is also a dial inside an auto-darkening welding helmet, which allows the welder to set it for the different types of welding operation. All of the automation is just possible due to the presence of batteries. Batteries may be electric-powered or solar-powered.

Advantages

Let’s look at the bright side of these active welding helmets. You can choose an auto-darkening welding helmet due to high-quality production, perform well in tight spaces, welder remain stress-free, save from random arc flashes, and a great thing for beginners.

There is no need to change the torch position. It allowed the worker to focus on the welding object by reducing the head nodding.

Welding in tight spaces is a laborious and risky task for every welder. These welding helmets facilitate performing best in such tight spaces for every welder.

Tack or abrupt welding helmet is inevitable in most welding operations. This operation hurts the neck of the welder. These welding helmets are very much effective for such kinds of welding operations.
Arc flashes affect the health of a welder as well as the accuracy of the work. Sensors present in auto-darkening welding detect the arc flashes and change the shade with an average of 1/25000 seconds. In this way, they protect the welder.

ADF welding helmets are the best option for beginners. These welding helmets allow them to focus on learning without any fear of arc flashes or nodding the head.

Disadvantages

There are a few things that prove a roadblock for these welding helmets. They are very costly, require too much care, and have secondary light effects.

One who wants to buy an ADF welding helmet has to pay more than a passive one. The sensors, batteries, and LCD make it costly.
Once there is something wrong with the helmet, your welding task can be a nightmare. So, auto-darkening welding helmet requires more care compared to passive welding helmets.
It is difficult to work under the sun with these helmets. The sunlight intercepts to sensors. Other than sunlight, these sensors are also deceived by workshop lights. This is resolved with X-mode technology which is only present in a few welding helmets.

Passive Welding Helmets

These welding helmets are the best option in terms of cost, weight, maintenance, clear view, and require only experience.

These welding helmets are cost-effective. The reason behind this, there are no batteries and sensors present in such helmets.
These helmets are light in weight as compared to auto-darkening welding helmets. The reason behind this is that there are no batteries present in these welding helmets. The light in weight feature creates comfort for the operator.
Maintenance of these welding helmets is easy. In case of damage to the lens, they can easily be replaced. Other than the replacement, the lens for the welding helmets is economical.
These welding helmets are optically clear than the ADF welding helmets. Because there are only lenses, not an LCD.
Sensors, batteries, sensitivity control, or other things are not required. It requires an extra lens on backup to replace the damaged welding helmet.

Disadvantages

These are only suitable for experienced welders because they are synchronized to flip up and down from the fixed shade lens to inspect the operation.
As there is a lack of electronics, these welding helmets are limited to a few types of welding operations. The welder cannot set it for a different type of welding operation like TIG, and MIG.
As there is only a fixed shade present, there is a need for a proper selection of lenses. Otherwise, one has to face arc flashes.
These welding helmets are limited to indoors. While working under the sun, there is an interruption of sunlight.

Conclusion:

Let’s conclude a comparison between auto-darkening welding helmets vs passive. Best auto-darkening welding helmets are very much suitable for beginners and perform well in different kinds of welding operations like TIG, MIG. with the X-mode technology they work well under the sun as well. On the other hand, passive welding helmets match well with experienced guys. They are cost-effective and light in weight.

If you are an experienced one and have to work inside the workshop, then passive welding helmets are the best choice for you because they work well at an economic price. Otherwise, the second option of an ADF welding helmet is much more suitable for you.

FAQs

Is it safe to use an auto-darkening welding helmet?

It all depends upon the user. If the user like to use an auto-darkening welding helmet, it is the best option for welder. Because it supports a variety of welding operations. It also minimizes the risk factor and helps the user to provide a quality job.

What should be the response rate of an auto-darkening welding helmet?

On average, the response rate of an auto-darkening welding helmet should be 1/25,000 seconds. Some welding helmets have less reaction time than the average response rate.

How important is a welding helmet important?

A welding helmet is an important safety gear for every welder. It protects the eyes and skin of a welder. Any type of welding is easy due to these welding helmets.

James

James is a welding expert, accomplished author, and trusted guide with over 8 years of experience in the industry. With his in-depth knowledge and engaging writing style, James has become a true authority in the field, offering readers and clients invaluable expertise and insights to take their welding skills to new heights.

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5 Benefits of Using Welding Helmet Fan – Must Read Guide

by James | Feb 15, 2022 | Buying Guide

Fire, flashes, heat, and spatter; are all of these things that are being faced by everyone who deals with welding operations. As I said, it means anyone who meets with a welding operation, although a professional worker or a hobbyist. For the proper eye, face, and neck protection one has to use a welding helmet. Welding is not an easy task. You just wear a welding helmet, gear up with a welding torch, and begin your welding operation without any interruption.

It’s a great chance that you will encounter a few problems. In a list of encounters while operating, you may face the issue of fogging up the lens of the welding helmet. To overcome these issues welding helmet fan is an excellent option for a welder. If the lens of the welding helmet is not clean, you should also check the best way to clean the welding helmet lens. Fogging up the welding helmet’s lens is not a laughing matter while welding. This will make you annoyed tired, and affect your efficiency especially if you are in a hurry to complete your project.

Fogging up of lenses is not a partial issue as one can say if you are a veteran then there is a low chance. No, this problem is faced by both beginners and veterans of welding crafts. You can also check the best welding helmet for beginners. If you are looking for how to get rid of the issue and resolve the problem, then you are at the right place. In this article, we’ll address the cause of fogging and how to overcome it. Also features and benefits of welding helmet fans.

Reasons for Fogging in a Welding Helmet

Let’s see the reasons for the fogging up welding helmet lens while working. The reason for the fogging is the catch-up of hot wind with cold wind or vice versa. This process is anchored upon the scientific concept of condensation. Which is the process in which gasses convert to liquid. Cooling of hot air or warming of the cold air leads to fog formation.

There are three primary reasons for fogging up the welding helmet’s lens while working.

Cold climate
Rainy weather
Excessive breathing of the operator.

Let’s discuss all of the reasons one by one.

Cold Climate

There are two possibilities regarding the fogging of a welding helmet in a cold climate. One is direct and the other one is a little bit indirect. Whether you are dealing with cutting with a welding torch or joining a piece of metal, there is a release of hot air, which is inevitable because you are dealing with open fire. When this hot air meets with the cold climate, this leads to the problem of fogging. This is due to the direct contact of your welding torch with a cold climate.

The other reason for fogging is just similar but it is a little bit indirect. When someone works at a hot temperature and this hot temperature builds up in the welding helmet. As soon as the cold wind or air makes its course through the welding helmet, there is a fogging problem. All of this happening is just a matter of a few seconds.

Rainy weather

Fogging up of the welding helmet problem is frequent for the workers of the equatorial zone and monsoon zones of the world. Because these areas received more rainfall as compared to the entire globe. It is just like the cold air sneaking into the welding helmet and causing fog up the welding helmet lens. But in this case, the reason for the cold air is the rainy weather.

Excessive Breathing from Mouth

It is the least important reason for fogging the welding helmets. Air released from the mouth is warmer than the air beneath the welding helmet. When some breathe excessively, this causes fogging in the welding helmet. To avoid this problem, one has to require exercise through the nose rather than the mouth. It will build up with the experience in this occupation.

How to Deal with Fogging

The first two problems are inevitable because these are natural phenomena. The last issue can be controlled by breathing mannerisms. However, the issue with this method is human behaviours are always not unique. They change very abruptly. Luckily, there is an option that can address all of these issues, and that one is the welding helmet fan. There are special fan kits available that are adjustable with these welding helmets.

Anti-fogging Practices While Welding Operations

A Welding helmet fan ensures health and offers comfort to the welder while working. Beyond the aspects of health and comfort, you must have a welding helmet fan to reinforce the concentration of the welder and to increase the capacity to do work. Whatever the level of experience or the level required by the operation, concentration is a key factor while working.

If you don’t pay head over the welding helmet fan or cooling while working in a hot summer or some tedious activity that involves flame and fire, just like welding or cutting, you will cut down the operation speed. Along with the speed, you will suffer from the accuracy of the operation.

If you are looking for something that will minimize the chance of compromising your efficiency of work and accuracy of operation, then you should slightly decrease the “productivity” and incorporate the anti-fogging agent into the welding helmet lens. There are multiple options available to achieve anti-fogging practices. These options are discussed in the following.

Increase your time per project
Create a comfortable environment in regards to welding e.g. colder place for working in the summer
Please select some air-conditioned welding helmets to neutralize the inside temperature of the welding helmet
Increase the number of breaks while welding operation, in regards to cooling down the surrounding environment.

If someone follows all or some of the above-mentioned practices, then it will be good regarding health issues related to heat and working efficiency for both employee and worker. These practices become crucial for the person who is 50+ because old people are more susceptible to heat-related diseases.

You become aware of the importance of a welding helmet fan, and anti-fogging practices, by reading the above few words. In the following, there are some major reasons or benefits that you can get by having it.

Benefits of Welding Helmet Fan

The best way to optimize your work efficiency and counter the heat stress issues while welding is to invest in a welding helmet fan. Here are some prominent causes why every welder has to invest in it.

Pump Clean Air

Gasping is a common problem that welders face after a long working session, especially in hot summer weeks. It will urge you to put off your welding helmet and sniff in a relaxing breeze somewhere outside of the project place. Welding helmet fans help to overcome this issue. It pumps a soothing amount of clean air inside the helmet.

Make Dry to Face

As welding is a play of flash and fire, sweating is a common issue. If you are conscious about wiping out the trickling down sweat on your face, but you can’t do it, because your hands are full. Then invest in a welding helmet fan. It will make you feel fresh while working and help you to go anywhere just after the long working hours.

Filters out Harmful Chemicals

Cutting a metal piece or joining different metal spheres releases harmful chemicals, solids, and other substances which are not suitable for welders. To avoid all of these issues welding helmet fan acts as an exhaust fan and cleans the environment just like your exhaust fan did the job in a kitchen. It ensures that you breathe clean air. So, don’t worry about inhaling smoke and other hazardous substances while working.

Decrease the Humidity

Humidity causes fog-up in the welding helmet lens. If you install a welding helmet fan, it will surely help you to get rid of this issue. Because it helps to dry the moist air immediately after it enters into the welding helmet and helps to cut down the humidity problem.

Counterbalance the Heat

When there is a welding or cutting operation, excessive heat is a by-product. This heat directly affects your working efficiency and the accuracy of the work. Welding helmet fans counterbalance this exhausting heat and help to improve accuracy and efficiency.

Here are some welding machine fans that will help you in your work.

Klein Tools 60155 Dual Cooling Fan

Klein Tools Dual Cooling fan is a hard hat and a welding helmet, adaptable fan. Attachment and removal of the fan are easy. The strap is not required for mounting the fan to the hard hat or welding helmet. So, anyone can use it for ease and comfort while working in hot summer weeks or humid weather conditions.

The other main thing about this fan is its dual-action. It pumps cool or fresh air inside the helmet and pushes hot air out of the welding helmet. In this design, both short and long ducts are available. These ducts can be configured in sixteen distinct ways for efficient airflow.

A USB-charged detachable and rechargeable Lithium-ion battery helps to carry on the process smoothly for a long time. You just have to charge it and work in any weather situation. The dual fan helps to make the head, neck, and face. Its weight is 0.43 Pounds.

Pros

No strip is required to mount it with the welding helmet.
A dual fan helps to cool the neck, head, and face.
Sixteen different ways of airflow.
The dual fan pushes in the fresh air and pushes out the hot air.
Lithium-ion battery present works for six hours.
Rechargeable and detachable battery.

Cons

Requires proper voltage for charging the battery otherwise, it will go down after 50% consumption.

Hytechtoyz Welding Helmet Cooling Fan

Hytechtoyz Helmet Cooling Fan is another product for cooling the welding helmet and avoiding fogging up to the lens. It weighs only 5 ounces. It provides a true evaporation cooling to the worker. It leads to the comfort of a welder and helps to sustain the operation for long hours. Hair guard technology makes it unmatchable as compared to the competitors. This technology does not draw the hair and debris through the blower.

It is adaptable with a welding helmet. You can mount it inside of the welding helmet. It keeps silent while operating. This thing makes it welder-friendly and helps to concentrate on work. It circulates a high volume of air inside the welding helmet. For proper operation, Only a 9V battery is required.

Pros

A True evaporation cooling system is present.
Hair guard Technology prevents sucking the hair through the blower.
Can adjust inside of welding helmet.
Quiet brushless operation while moving the air volume.
It’s light in weight.

Cons

You have to purchase the battery.
The battery only lasts for 90 minutes
Its cover is weak

Conclusion:

Working as a welder is not a simple and easy job. It requires many precautions to work as a welder. One of the primary issues with the welding helmets while working is fogging up welding helmet lenses. The usage of a fan in a welding helmet is an excellent solution to get rid of this issue.

You’ve learned about the reasons for fogging up welding helmet lenses and how welding helmet fans help to encounter these issues along with many other problems. Lastly, we’ve discussed the different types of fans that can be used with a welding helmet.

If you are looking for an excellent welding helmet fan that is hard hat adaptable and combines well with welding helmets, then Klein Tools Dual Cooling Fan 60155 is a great choice. On the other hand, if you are fond of evaporative cooling systems, then the Hytechtoyz Helmet Cooling Fan is best for you. CoolBelt Welding Helmet Cooling System is the best option if you are looking for a lightweight cooling system.

Read More: Bluetooth Welding Helmet

James

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Can I Use a Welding Helmet to View Solar Eclipse?

by James | Feb 1, 2022 | Buying Guide

There are some opportunities in one’s life when there is a solar eclipse and one can see it from his home. But there is a question of whether a person can view the solar eclipse without any safety equipment. The simple answer to this question is no. But there also come many questions in one’s mind like can I use a welding helmet to view the solar eclipse.

Because it can be very harmful to view the solar eclipse without protective equipment. A person who doesn’t have solar glasses but has a welding helmet, thinks that can I use a welding helmet to view the solar eclipse. The simple answer to this question is yes. But one should know how to use a welding helmet to view the solar eclipse. Although there are many new technology welding helmets like Bluetooth welding helmets you should be very careful while choosing a welding helmet to view the solar eclipse.

Why You Should Not View Solar Eclipse with Naked Eyes

First, understand the mechanism of the solar eclipse. When Moon comes in between Sun and Earth, the sun rays do not directly reach the earth. And the outer portion of the Sun, “corona”, starts glowing. So, the rays produced during this duration are very harmful to the eyes.

If a person views those rays without safety equipment, it can cause damage to vision. Therefore, it is always recommended not to watch the solar eclipse with naked eyes. One must use solar eclipse goggles, special lenses, or a welding helmet.

How to Use a Welding Helmet to View Solar Eclipse

Some people think that all welding helmets can be used for viewing solar eclipses. But it is not true. Because for viewing a solar eclipse, there should be a minimum shade range of #12. So, it would be best if you a welding helmet with a shade range greater than 12 because it can block all harmful rays from the Sun.

Shade number 13 of the welding lens gives you the best view of a solar eclipse. Please don’t go up to 14 number shade because it is too dark to see the view. Therefore, it is recommended to check the shade of the welding helmet and set it at 13 and get the best view experience.

Check Your Welding Helmet is Safe for Viewing Solar Eclipse

You can use great quality welding helmets for viewing a solar eclipse. But not use a welding helmet that is too old. NASA recommends not to use a welding helmet for a solar eclipse that is more than three years old. Many people who are using the welding helmet of others don’t know how old the welding helmet is. In such cases, it is best not to use a welding helmet for viewing solar eclipse because it can damage your eyesight.

Also, check the glass of the welding helmet. If it is cracked, the bright light can pass through it, which can be very dangerous for your eyes. We recommend testing your welding helmet before viewing the solar eclipse. And if there is an issue with it then never use it to view the solar eclipse.

Conclusion

If you are confused, can I use a welding helmet to view the solar eclipse? Here are our final thoughts about it. If you have a quality welding helmet, you can use it to view a solar eclipse. Always set a shade number greater than 12 because it can stop harmful rays. Shade number 13 of the welding lens is best to get a clear view of the solar eclipse.

Also, make sure that your welding helmet is not older than three years and that there is no crack in the glass of the welding helmet. If there is a crack in the glass, it can’t stop the flashlight and harmful rays that can be very dangerous for your vision. So, before using a welding helmet to view a solar eclipse, make sure that your helmet is in good working condition.

James

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How to Test an Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet

by James | Jan 23, 2022 | Buying Guide

Some people don’t know the importance of testing an auto-darkening welding helmet. But in fact, it is a vital step before starting welding. Because nothing is more important than the health of a welder. If an auto-darkening welding helmet is not working, it can be very harmful to the welder’s eyes. Therefore, the welder should know how does an auto-darkening welding helmet works and one should not undermine the importance of testing an auto-darkening welding helmet.

Many people don’t know how to test an auto-darkening welding helmet. But after reading it thoroughly, anyone can test his welding helmet before using it for any kind of operation. With many other advantages of an auto-darkening welding helmet, it saves the welder from different kinds of harmful radiation which otherwise can cause eye injuries to a welder.

How to Test an Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet by Different Methods

Here we discuss different methods to test an auto-darkening welding helmet. So, people can choose the method which suits them. Although a new welding helmet comes on the market after testing by the company. However, it is recommended to test a welding helmet in different ways. It will make sure that this welding helmet is in good working condition.

Expose the Lens to the Sun

There are many steps to test an auto-darkening welding helmet but this is one of the easy steps. People have been using this practice for years because it is a reliable testing method. You just need to wear an auto-darkening welding helmet and expose the lens to the sun. Now focus on the lens and you will see that the lens will darken. Another very interesting fact is that people also use welding helmets to view solar eclipses because they stop ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) rays coming from the sun.

It is a sign that auto-darkening features are working. But if the lens does not darken and you don’t see any change in the shade means the auto-darkening feature of the welding helmet is not working. Also, keep in mind that this method only works when it is sunny and bright outside. Otherwise, you must try other methods.

Use the TV Remote to Test

This method is also very convenient and reliable to test an auto-darkening welding helmet. Helmets are usually designed to block ultraviolet (UV) and Infrared (IR) rays, so you can test them by using a TV remote. Therefore, ensure that the TV remote has a UV or IR signal otherwise this method does not work. Put a welding helmet on the head and point your TV remote towards the helmet. Now press any key so rays emit from the remote. Now check the reaction of the welding helmet.

If lenses automatically switch to darken mode, it means an auto-darkening welding helmet is good to use for welding operations. Remote with pulsed or RF won’t work in this test so be careful while choosing the remote for testing.

Use Fluorescent Light to Test

It is another very practical and easy method to test an auto-darkening welding helmet. Suppose, you don’t have a lighter in the house and the sun is also not bright outside then this method is for you. Almost all houses and workshops have bright fluorescent lights. Put on your welding helmet and go close the light and notice the reaction of the auto-darkening lens.

If the lens is darkened, it shows the welding helmet is in good working condition. But if you don’t notice any changes in the lens, it shows that the welding helmet is faulty. You can also turn the light off and on to see the response time of the helmet. But make sure that the fluorescent light is bright enough for this test.

Test the Helmet by Striking an Arc

Sun testing method is easy but this is not easy and some people don’t feel comfortable during this test. Because a person is exposing himself to risk during this test. Therefore, only do this test if you don’t feel uncomfortable. Strike an arc, after wearing an auto-darkening welding helmet and other safety gear. If you notice the reaction of the lens, it means the welding helmet is working but if there is no reaction then the auto-darkening welding helmet is not working.

If the lens is becoming dark and you don’t see the workpiece, it is also a sign of fault. While testing welding helmets with this helmet, you must keep one thing in mind this method is only for auto-darkening welding helmets not for passive welding helmets. So, it is good to know the difference between auto-darkening and passive welding helmets.

Use the Spark of a Lighter

The use of spark is also an effective and easy method to test an auto-darkening welding helmet. Most people have a cigarette lighter in their homes so, they don’t need anything special for this testing method. The spark from the lighter is somehow close to an arc flash and bright enough for the lens to change its shade. When the lighter is on, the lens will darken, it is a sign that the auto-darkening feature of the helmet is working. You can also check its functionality and reaction time by repeating the on and off the lighter.

Different Methods to Test the Quality of Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet

After different testing methods, you have found this auto-darkening welding helmet is perfect for welding operations. Now it’s time to test the quality of the welding helmets. Here we discuss different methods to test the quality of auto-darkening welding helmets.

Auto Darkening Filter Test

Auto-darkening filter test is imperative to test the quality of the welding helmet. We have covered the auto-darkening filter test in detail. It will help you to get an idea about the welding helmet. This filter works in a way that stops arc flash and also protects the eyes of the welder from harmful rays. Only allow a small amount of light to pass through the lens to see the welding object. With an auto-darkening welding helmet, you don’t need to flip the helmet and increase the productivity of the welder. But you should

Safety Test and Industry Standards

All tests are important but a safety test is vital before choosing any auto-darkening welding helmet. Although all auto-darkening welding helmet meets safety standards, you should ensure that the welding helmet you are going to buy must meet ANSI Z87.1-2003 standards. A standard auto-darkening welding helmet has all these features.

Withstand temperatures ranging from 23 to 130 degrees Fahrenheit.
Filter for infrared rays (IR)
Completely filter ultraviolet rays (UV)
Resistant to small impacts
Data to show durability, strength and effectiveness

There must be a sweatband on the forehead to absorb sweat if it is trickling towards the eyes. Also, check the quality of the band, it should be soft and comfortable for the user. A special type of polycarbonate material is used for making the outer cover for helmets to resist impact, scratches and harmful rays. A special type of glass is used for a filter lens that controls the light passing through it.

Clarity Test of Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet

The clarity test of a welding helmet is imperative because if the clarity of the helmet is not good, a welder can never produce great results. It is a very simple test because you just need to wear a welding helmet and see through the lens. High-quality welding helmets have better clarity than basic ones. Welding helmets with 1/1/1/1 optical clarity have excellent visionary experience. Therefore, keep it in mind while choosing a welding helmet.

Sensitivity and Delay Control Test

There are arc sensors in all auto-darkening welding helmets that help lenses adjust their shades. Before using a welding helmet, make sure to adjust sensitivity and delay controls according to your working condition. Because these two features are imperative for the safety of the welder’s eyes. Make sure that the delay feature is active because it saves welder eyes from the flash.

All welding helmets are highly sensitive so before welding ensure to adjust the sensitivity control according to the lighting condition. Normally, adjust the sensitivity to average so, it works best in minimal and high lighting conditions. Nowadays all welding helmets come with a knob to adjust the sensitivity so, a welder can easily adjust it.

Lens Response Time

A Lens reaction test is vital to check the quality of an auto-darkening welding helmet. It is the time taken by the lens to darken. Ideally, the response time of welding should be 1/2500 seconds. If the lens takes more time to darken, it can cause eye strain to the welder. You can test the reaction time of a welding helmet by different methods. But be careful while testing the response time of the welding lens.

Power Source Test

Most auto-darkening welding helmets come with two power sources, solar panels and lithium batteries. Some welding helmets also come with replaceable batteries. Although it is not easy to test the battery but make sure that these batteries come with a warranty. A welder should also know how to change a battery in a welding helmet. Some high-end welding helmets come with battery indicators. Also, test the solar power source of the welding helmet by going out in sunlight.

Lenses Shade Test

Mostly a welder uses an auto-darkening welding helmet for different metals and multiple operations. Their different methods need different amounts of protection. Therefore, multiple shade range welding helmets are used because they protect in multiple situations. Normally welding helmet lenses have a shade range from nine to thirteen which is enough for multiple welding tasks. A quality welding helmet adjusts its shade according to the operation and protection required.

Conclusion:

Many people want to know how to test an auto-darkening welding helmet so, here we discuss different testing methods in detail. You can test your welding helmet by any method which seems feasible to you. We don’t recommend you to test by an arc because it can cause strain to your eyes.

However, you should go with the Sun test, TV remote test, fluorescent light test or lighter test. While choosing a welding helmet you should also consider the comfort and weight of it. Our advice for all users is that must test their welding helmet before using it for any kind of welding operation.

James

weldinghelmetreviews.com

Which is the Best Way to Clean Welding Helmet Lens

by James | Jan 8, 2022 | 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.

James

weldinghelmetreviews.com

How to Choose a Welding Helmet – Welding Helmet Guide

by James | Dec 25, 2021 | 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, apparently, 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.

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 aluminum 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.

James

weldinghelmetreviews.com

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