Different Types of Welding Helmets

In the world of welding, your welding helmet could probably be your most important tool. The helmet becomes an extension of the welder, as it is worn for the duration of the job. Since the helmet is never taken off while you are working, the most important thing is how comfortable you are with the helmet. Picking a helmet may seem like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how much influence a welding helmet alone can have on your welding process.

In this article, T-Safety will introduce different types of welding helmets and their characteristics to help you better understand this safety equipment.

1. Passive welding helmets

This is the most basic type of welding helmet. A passive welding helmet is not a modern helmet with fancy features, but that does not affect its effectiveness. It is well crafted from tough materials. It protects the wearer from flying objects, UV rays and the extreme heat generated during welding process.

One of the most beneficial advantages of passive welding helmets is their low price. This helmet is ideal for any welder who has a budget or prefers simple equipment.

2. Auto-darkening welding helmets

Passive welding helmets can be effective for their purpose, but since the lenses must be constantly adjusted, there is an obvious need for a helmet with automatic lenses. This is the most important feature of the auto-darkening welding helmet.

During the welding process, the auto-darkening helmet will detect the light emitted and adjust the lenses accordingly. This feature was implemented on the helmet because welders felt that constantly adjusting the lenses manually would distract them and greatly reduce their productivity.

Auto-darkening may prove to be effective, but its main drawback is that it is usually not very affordable.

3.The variable-shade lens welding helmet

Unlike helmets with fixed shading, this helmet has a feature that allows the lenses to adapt to the various light and brightness emitted by the electric arc during welding. This helmet is preferred by welders who tend to work on a variety of projects involving different materials.

Variable and fixed shade helmets offer the same protection. However, variable shade helmets can adjust the degree of darkness provided by the lenses, thereby increasing the welder's visual range by a factor of ten. This may seem like a useless feature, but imagine that the light emitted when you are welding is too bright. You can't see properly, and as a result, you make a mistake that leads to a bad weld. Most welders will tell you that defects are a welder's worst nightmare because in most cases, the entire weld has to be redone.

There are safety standards for welding helmets. In terms of safety, they provide complete protection against flying objects, ultraviolet rays, and infrared rays. The weight of the helmet should not interfere with movement or cause neck pain. The helmet should be strong enough to withstand external forces and protect you from the heat emitted.

In order to choose the ideal helmet, take the safety standards, your budget, and your needs and preferences into consideration.