Welding is a booming industry with over 3 million welders in the United States alone With the ever-growing demand for skilled welders and the intense heat that welding produces, proper safety equipment is essential. Enter the passive welding helmet, designed to protect the face and eyes of the welder.
But what exactly is the passive welding helmet and how does it work? Well, let’s break it down!
What Is a Passive Welding Helmet?
Welding helmets are an essential safety tool for welders.They protect the welder from intense bright light, sparks and burns caused by the welding process. There are two main types of welding helmet available, passive and active. Today we’ll take a look at what a passive welding helmet is and how it can benefit the welder.
What Is a Passive Welding Helmet?
A passive welding helmet is an old style of helmet used by most welders in the past.A passive welding helmet has a shade level between 5 and 9, which is adjustable depending on the light level and type of welding being carried out. The level is generally above 5 (the darkest shade) so the welder has adequate protection. This is the only adjustment that can be made to a passive welding helmet.
Benefits of a Passive Welding Helmet
• Safety: A passive welding helmet is ideal for hobby welders and those with basic welding skills. The adjustable shade level ensures that you remain safe from the most intense light. • Cost: A passive welding helmet is usually cheaper than an active welding helmet and can save you money if you are on a budget.• Durability: A passive welding helmet is much more durable than its active counterpart and is designed to last for many years.
Disadvantages of a Passive Welding Helmet
• Limited Adjustment: The main disadvantage of a passive welding helmet is that the shade level can only be adjusted manually.This means that the welder has to take more breaks to adjust the helmet. • Limited Protection: A passive welding helmet also offers less protection than an active welding helmet. The lighter shade levels can’t protect against higher levels of light and heat produced by welding.