As the welding industry advances, the demand for safer and more secure welding helmets also increases. The welding helmet serves as the most crucial piece of equipment for any welder — but with so many options, it can be difficult to decide which one is the best for your work.
According to a recent survey, 61% of welders feel the quality of their welding helmet is the most important factor when considering which one to purchase. So what is a good welding helmet? In this article, we will explore the basics of welding helmets, including safety features, materials, and helmet styles, as well as some of the best welding helmets on the market today.
What is a Welding Helmet?
A welding helmet is an essential safety and protective gear for electric arc welding. It is designed to protect the face, neck, and eyes from the hazards of welding, such as intense visible and ultraviolet light, infrared light, sparks, and heat produced by the welding arc.It also provides additional protection against electric shock, radiation, slag, and fumes.
Types of Welding Helmets
There are different types of welding helmets available in the market, each with their own features and benefits.Auto-Darkening Welding Helmets
Auto-darkening welding helmets are made with a light-sensitive shield that darkens as soon as the welding arc is ignited. It provides greater visibility and allows welders to adjust the shade of the helmet according to their needs.Passive Welding Helmets
Passive welding helmets are made with a non-light sensitive lens that remains dark all the time. They offer protection from radiation but do not provide the same level of visibility that an auto-darkening helmet does.Solar-Powered Welding Helmets
Solar-powered welding helmets are made with a battery-powered lens that darkens as soon as the welding arc is ignited.They are lightweight and offer a great level of visibility and protection from radiation.
How to Choose the Right Welding Helmet?
Choosing the right welding helmet is essential for the safety and comfort of welders.Here are some tips to help you choose the right welding helmet:
- Choose a lightweight welding helmet: It should be light enough to wear for long periods of time without causing fatigue.
- Check the lens: Check the lens for scratch and fog resistance.
Also, make sure that the lens is certified to meet the relevant safety standards.
- Choose the right welding helmet type: Different welding helmets are designed for different applications and welding types. Choose the one that is suitable for your welding project.
- Check the fit: Choose a welding helmet with adjustable straps and padding for comfort. It should also fit properly with no gaps around the edges.
- Look for features: Look for features such as adjustable viewing angle, auto-darkening, sweat band, and replaceable battery.