3 Things You Need To Know About Choosing A Welding Helmet

When it comes to welding, you need to make sure you properly protect your eyes and face when you are welding. Without the proper protection, you will not be able to weld safely. When it comes to buying a welding helmet, you are going to want to make sure you choose one that will work best for you.

Consideration #1: Weight of the Helmet

Welding helmets can be heavy, which is why it is important to check out the weight of your helmet. IN general, it is better to go with a lighter weight welding helmet. A lighter helmet will reduce neck strain and fatigue, especially if you like to weld for long sessions.

If you typically only weld for short periods of time, you may be able to handle a heavier helmet without experiencing neck strain.

Consideration #2: Type of Shade

Second, you need to determine what type of shade you want your welding helmet.

You can purchase a standard welding helmet, which is also called a passive welding helmet. A passive welding helmet has a static infrared filer and ultraviolet filter. With a passive filter, you will get the same amount of coverage at all times. With this type of helmet, you will need to lift the helmet up and down in order to see your work. You will need to know when is the best time to fix your shade.

You can also go with a variable shade helmet. With a variable shade element, the helmet has an electronic filter lens. The electronic lenses are able to sense the brightness from your welding torch and darken to the appropriate level based on the level of light that the torch is admitting.

When you turn your torch off, the lenses will lighten again, allowing you to see. With a variable shade helmet, you don't have to lift your lenses up and down to see what you are doing, as the lenses will adjust to allow you to see what you are doing.

Consideration #3: Power Source

If you go with a variable shade helmet, you need to consider the power source for the electronic filter. You can get a battery-powered unit or a solar-powered unit. A solar-powered unit works best if you work outside, or you can easily leave your helmet outside every day in order to recharge it.

If you primarily work inside, you are more than likely going to want a battery-powered helmet. When it comes to a battery-powered helmet, a lithium battery-powered will stay charged longer. Or you can go with a AAA battery powered helmet, which will not last that long, but are more affordable batteries to replace.

When choosing a welding helmet, be sure to consider how much weight your head and neck can comfortably support. Next, consider if you want a passive welding helmet or a variable or active shade helmet. If you go with an active helmet, choose a power source that will be easy for you to manage. Reach out to a company near you for more details on welding helmets.