How to choose a good welding helmet: TOP 14 best models

Rating of the best masks for welders

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Our rating invites you to get acquainted with the TOP 14 masks that collect positive ratings and reviews from users on the Internet. They have proven themselves well and are recognized as truly effective.

But we note that the site’s editors make the rating based on customer reviews and ratings, which they post on popular review sites and product aggregators. The opinion of our experts is not the only true and correct one - you can buy a completely different mask and consider it the best. To make it easier to study the rating, we have divided the list into three categories depending on the type of masks.

What types of welding helmets are there?

Today, the prototype of the old-style welding helmet has not gone anywhere. And although so-called Chameleon masks with an automatic light filter are already widely used, many people prefer standard welding masks with a fixed light filter.

This is explained by two factors. Firstly, not everyone trusts masks with automatic light filters. Secondly, it is high cost. A good Chameleon mask is quite expensive if we are talking about a truly reliable and high-quality welder’s mask.

All existing types of welding helmets can be divided by design and design:

• Welding masks with a fixed light filter;
• Welding helmets that are equipped with lifting filters;
• Automatic welder masks or, as they are often called, “Chameleon” masks;
• Welding masks, which provide air filtration by supplying it under the shield.

A correctly chosen mask will reliably protect your eyes from ultraviolet radiation and make welding more comfortable and convenient. To choose the right welding helmet, it is important to consider the type of welding, as well as the amount of welding work performed.

Unlike manual arc welding, argon arc welding requires the most powerful darkening filter. To carry out manual arc welding, which is the most common, it will be enough to have a standard welder’s mask or welding shield.

The Best Automatic Chameleon Welding Helmets

No. 5 – Special WM-300

Special WM-300
Inexpensive chameleon mask, which also has auto-darkening. The product is chosen for its fast operation of the filter, but they note that the build quality leaves much to be desired.

The cost of the mask is just over 750 rubles. This is a completely bargain price for a device with an automatic light filter. Darkness in inactive state at 4 DIN level. The filter operates in just 0.2 ms if there is no adjustment. The mask is equipped with two arc sensors. The elements of the device are powered by solar and conventional batteries. The viewing window is small - 3.5x9 cm. The model can be used at temperatures down to -5 degrees. Weight - 460 g.

The mask is highly resistant to impacts and protects a person from IR and UV rays and metal splashes. Buyers note among the advantages of the product the pleasant price and the presence of auto-dimming. But in the dark, this function works late, and this is a minus. But the mask is made of tactilely pleasant soft plastic. But, unfortunately, it is not easy to use.

pros

• low price
• soft plastic
• good level of protection
• auto dims quickly in light

Minuses

• not the most comfortable
• in a darkened room the light filter works late

Prices for welding helmet Spets WM-300

Special WM-300

No. 4 — Caliber MSKh-11P

Caliber MCKH-11P
This is a chameleon mask, of the automatic type, in which the sensitivity of the filter can be adjusted. The model allows you to illuminate the work area.

The cost of this mask starts from 1000 rubles. The degree of darkening in the absence of arc light is 4 DIN. The filter brightening time can be adjusted from 0.25 to 0.85 s. The filter also operates without adjustment in just 0.2 ms. Two arc sensors are installed. The mask receives energy for operation from solar and standard batteries. The product is protected from metal splashes. The dimensions of the viewing window are sufficient for comfortable use - 4.2x9.2 cm. The product can be used at temperatures down to -10 degrees. Weight - 420 g.

The mask provides excellent protection to its owner. The product reliably protects against IR, UV rays, scale, and metal splashes. The mask is very durable. Among the advantages, users also note the low cost. Ideal for occasional work at home.

pros

• low cost
• reliable protection
• good darkness
• comfortable
• high strength

Minuses

• darkness cannot be adjusted
• sensitivity adjustment is sharp

Prices for welding helmet Caliber MSKh-11P

Caliber MSKh-11P

No. 3 - KM F1 110x90 mm Din 9-13 Chameleon

KM F1 110x90 mm Din 9-13 Chameleon
Mask with an automatic chameleon filter, which will do an excellent job of protecting your eyes and face from industrial hazards. When bright light appears, the light filter works instantly.

The cost of this mask made of durable polyamide starts from 1,500 rubles. The model is not lightweight - its weight is approximately 0.7 kg. The model has a darkening level when not in use at DIN 3, and during welding it increases to 9. Protection against IR and UV radiation reaches DIN15. The mask elements are powered by a built-in Li-Ion battery, as well as by a solar panel. Light sensitivity cannot be adjusted. The viewing window has dimensions of 3.5x9 cm. The model can be used at temperatures down to -10 degrees.

A Russian-made mask perfectly protects the welder from harmful influences. It is easy to adjust to the size of your head. The product is very shock resistant and hypoallergenic. The viewing window allows you to clearly see the workspace. But it is important to remember that such a mask is not used for oxygen-acetylene and laser welding.

pros

• durable
• made of hypoallergenic materials
• Conveniently adjustable to the head
• Russian production
• darkens quickly

Minuses

• not used for oxy-acetylene and laser welding

Prices for welding helmet KM F1 110x90 mm Din 9-13 Chameleon

KM F1 110x90 mm Din 9-13 Chameleon

No. 2 - Resanta MS-4

Resanta MS-4
Mask, which is chosen for its simplicity and unpretentiousness. Reacts well to changes in illumination and perfectly protects the eyes.

The cost of the product starts from 1200 rubles. The mask has a 4 DIN darkening level in the cleared state, without adjustment it brightens in half a second. And in just one millisecond during the flash, the mask filter darkens, providing protection to the welder's eyes. The model is equipped with a solar panel and battery and provides excellent protection from both IR and UV radiation, as well as metal splashes. The viewing window has dimensions of 3.2x9 cm. The product can be used at temperatures down to -5 degrees. Weight - 430 g.

Users write that the mask protects well from various factors, but does not fit tightly enough to the face - light enters from above under the mask. Another disadvantage is that you cannot replace the built-in battery with a new one. But the most important thing is that the product allows you to reliably protect your eyes. Well, the cost of this option is quite reasonable.

pros

• reliable and durable
• does not require special settings
• high degree of protection
• fast auto-dimming
• low cost

Minuses

• does not fit tightly enough to the face

Prices for welding helmet Resanta MS-4n

Resanta MS-4

No. 1 - Fubag Optima 11 (38071)

Fubag Optima 11
A model recognized by many users as one of the best among analogues. It has a stylish appearance, high quality and excellent protective properties.

This version of the mask costs about 2 thousand rubles. The model in the cleared state has a 4 DIN shade, like the other options described above. It is possible to adjust the sensitivity of the filter and its clarification time from 0.25 to 0.8 seconds. Without adjustment, the filter operates in 0.4 ms. Control sensors are located inside the mask. The elements of the product are powered by a solar battery and a battery. The window size is quite large - 3.6x9.5 cm. You can work in a mask at temperatures down to -5 degrees.

Buyers write that this model deserves high praise. It is well assembled, has a neat and attractive appearance, and is perfectly darkened. A replacement protective glass is included in the kit. Not only the welder’s eyes are well protected, but also the lower part of the head and neck. Very comfortable. There is one drawback - weak latches of the product on the head.

pros

• stylish appearance
• high filter sensitivity
• replaceable protective glass
• large window
• good protection
• convenient to use
• possibility of adjustment

Minuses

• weak latches

Prices for welding helmet Fubag Optima 11 (38071)

Fubag Optima 11 (38071)

Reviews of Fubag Optima 11 welding helmet

Welding helmets with fixed filter

No. 4 - Wester WH2

Wester WH2
An inexpensive but reliable mask that perfectly protects from UV radiation, metal splashes, and sparks. An excellent option for those who need the product for rare one-time jobs.

The cost of a mask starts from 400 rubles. Product with a fixed filter and protection level 11 DIN. The viewing window has dimensions of 9x11 cm, large enough to provide a good overview of the working surface. The mask can be used at air temperatures down to -5 degrees.

Buyers write that the mask is good, but not without its shortcomings. For example, there may be problems with the packaging. Also, the light filter does not have protective glass, and you need to purchase it additionally.

pros

• inexpensive mask
• good level of protection
• large viewing window
• reliable protection

Minuses

• problems with the packaging - they may include incorrect instructions

Prices for welding helmet Wester WH2

Wester WH2

No. 3 – Quattro Elementi Lambda

Quattro Elementi Lambda
Product with a fixed filter and the ability to install protective glass. The mask can be used at fairly low temperatures - down to -20 degrees.

The cost of a mask starts from 440 rubles. The shade level is 11 DIN. The model perfectly protects from IR and UV radiation, and from metal splashes. The viewing window is quite large - 9x11 cm. Weight - almost 500 g. The product is made of durable heat-resistant plastic.

Users write that the mask has a comfortable headband, and that it itself is flexible and comfortable to use. The shield is shaped in such a way that it provides additional protection from smoke generated during welding. The product is heat-resistant, reliable and will last a long time. There is one downside - over time, the mask’s latches stop holding it in the correct position when opening.

pros

• low price
• high level of protection
• comfortable
• reliable
• durable
• excellent shield shape

Minuses

• Over time, the clamps become loose

Prices for welding helmet Quattro Elementi Lambda

Quattro Elementi Lambda

No. 2 - Sibrteh 89122

Sibrtech 89122
A very cheap mask, which, in fact, many people choose precisely because of the reasonable price. In addition, this is a very lightweight option that provides good protection to the master and has a number of design features that allow you to use the product comfortably.

The cost of the product starts from 300 rubles. The mask has a darkness level of 10 DIN, has a folding light filter, which allows you to replace it and install protective glass if necessary. An impact-resistant product made of high-quality material reliably protects the welder during work. The size of the viewing window is 8x10 cm. It can be used at temperatures down to -20 degrees. Weight - 440 g.

Among the advantages, users note the pleasant cost, versatility and ease of use of the mask. It is not of perfect quality, but for such a price it’s a shame to find fault with it. Suitable for an experienced professional welder.

pros

• very cheap
• convenient to use
• Possibility to remove the filter and change it
• light
• reliable level of protection

Minuses

• not the best build quality

Prices for welding helmet Sibrtech 89122

Sibrtech 89122

No. 1 - Esab Eco-Arc II

Esab Eco-Arc II
One of the rather expensive masks in its class. Impact-resistant, reliable, with a folding filter and a fairly large viewing window, it is suitable for use during a range of welding jobs by experienced craftsmen.

The cost of this mask made of lightweight polypropylene starts from 1,500 rubles. The product has a darkness level of 11 DIN, is equipped with a folding filter and allows you to install protective glass. The size of the viewing window is 9x11 cm. Weight is just under 0.5 kg.

The product perfectly protects the master’s eyes, face, neck, and ears from harmful effects. The headband can be adjusted to fit your needs, locking it in five positions. The mask is relatively light, comfortable and - most importantly - strong and durable. A protective lens is included. No deficiencies were identified.

pros

• flexible and pleasant plastic
• large viewing window
• folding filter
• light
• convenient to adjust
• good protection

Minuses

• high price

Prices for Esab Eco-Arc II welding helmet

Esab Eco-Arc II

Reviews of the Esab Eco-Arc II welding helmet

How to choose a welding helmet

How to choose a welding helmet?

There are many parameters that distinguish welding helmets:

- regular with dark glass or with an automatically dimming screen,

— fixed or variable degree of darkness,

- two, three or four spark sensors,

— size of the viewing window.

By choosing the mask that's best for you, you can improve your welding productivity, quality, and comfort.

Screen shade numbers indicate the lens's ability to filter light. The shade range is measured on a scale from 8 (for welding at low currents) to 13 (for welding at high currents). Professional masks may have an additional range (3-8) for sanding or cutting. The regular dark glass mask uses the UV and IR coating of dark tinted glass with a fixed tint value. The most common are No. 8 and No. 9.

The mask is put on the head in the open position, then, immediately before lighting the arc, with a quick nod of the head (without using hands), the welder lowers the protective shield to the position protecting the face.

Conventional safety glasses have been in use for a long time and are inexpensive, but they have several disadvantages: for a novice welder or someone who does not weld often, it can be difficult to install the electrode when the mask must be lowered into the working position with a nod of the head or hand. This may result in difficulty striking the arc, defective welding, or the need for excessive post-grinding. The process of tack welding or frequent short welds can be difficult and inefficient, as the welder must repeatedly raise and lower the helmet. The repetitive task of turning the mask up and down can cause neck fatigue and in some cases can lead to injury.

Automatic lens dimming solves these problems. In its inactive state, an auto-dimming screen typically has a #3 or #4 dimming that is easy to see through. In this state it is convenient to work with an angle grinder. When the sensors on the helmet are triggered to strike the arc, the screen goes dark in a fraction of a second (usually 1/12,000 to 1/20,000 of a second for industrial grade helmets).

Basic parameters of a chameleon mask

Screen size.

It is one of the main parameters when choosing a welding helmet and is based on personal preferences. The larger the screen, the more convenient it is to work, because... you have a greater overview, you can see not only the welding area, but everything that is located at your workplace, therefore, there is no need to often turn your head to find the tool, and this takes a lot of time and leads to fatigue and irritation.

Number of sensors.

The number of sensors ranges from two, for a hobby-grade mask, to four, for an industrial-grade mask. More sensors means better response, because... In some welding applications, the 2 sensors may be blocked by the product or other interference.

Adjustable sensitivity.

Usually, budget masks, and even more so professional masks, have the ability to adjust the sensitivity of the sensors to the welding arc. Sensitivity control is useful when welding at low currents, especially TIG, when the arc is not so bright. Adjustable delay control.

Latency control is another useful feature.

This setting allows you to set how long the lens remains dark after the welding arc stops. When operating at low currents, a small delay helps get the job done faster. Longer dwell times are useful when welding at high amperages, as the molten metal glows brightly until it cools.

Other mask considerations.

The lighter weight of the mask minimizes the strain on the welder's neck. You will notice a big difference between masks that weigh 500g. and 1kg. Although 500g. may not seem like much of a difference for a few short welds, the more you weld, the more weight you and your neck will feel.

Pay attention to the chameleon filter class, because... this is the basic element of the mask, for example 1/1/1/1.

• The first number is the optical class. This is about the same thing when a person looks through glasses that do not correspond to him. The cartridge has a multilayer structure. Many refractive surfaces blur the image if the glass has even the slightest curvature. It's like the optics in a camera. The plates must be of impeccable quality. The quality of welding depends on how you see the weld pool. The best number is 1, the higher the value, the worse.

• The second number is the light dispersion. The self-darkening cartridge has liquid crystal cavities that polarize and scatter light. If the crystals are of high quality, then the dispersion is minimal. In everyday terms, this can be compared to looking through splattered glass. The best number is 1; the higher the value, the lower the quality.

• The third number is the uniformity of darkening. The welding helmet has several cavities with liquid crystals. Liquid crystals are poured between glasses, the distance between which is very small. Even minimal non-flatness of glasses leads to the fact that the polarizing effect of liquid crystals is locally reduced. This results in patchy darkening. The best number is 1. The higher the value, the lower the dimming uniformity.

• The last number is the angular dependence. Let's do an experiment. Let's set the cartridge to 13 tone dimming. And let's start tilting it. As the inclination increases, the cartridge begins to lighten. This is a property of any self-darkening filter. However, for some this is a very small angle, while for others these are quite significant angles. The smaller the angular dependence, the better. To reduce the angular dependence, the number of layers of liquid crystals is increased, and this reduces other characteristics of the filters. Therefore, 2 is a normal number for most cartridges. Cartridges with the number 1 are practically not available to Russians.

If welding is your job, take the time to find a mask that is most comfortable for you and has the maximum protection.

The best chameleon welding helmets with manual adjustment

No. 5 - Wester WH5

Wester WH5
A relatively inexpensive mask in its category with a good level of protection. The model is lightweight and comfortable to use.

The cost starts from 1700 rubles. Automatically darkens within 0.06 ms when a welding arc occurs, as it is equipped with a chameleon filter and easily returns to the brightened state. The product allows you to adjust the level of darkness and sensitivity of the filter, which has a protection level of DIN 13. Protective glass can be installed on the model. The dimensions of the viewing window are 4.2x9.2 cm. Buyers write that this option responds very quickly to changes in illumination, has a soft headband, and is easily adjusted, if necessary, to suit certain working conditions. The price is very reasonable. But sometimes the product starts to malfunction during operation.

pros

• low price
• soft headband
• comfortable to use
• easy to set up
• good level of protection

Minuses

• sometimes it crashes while working

Prices for welding helmet Wester WH5

Wester WH5

No. 4 - Fubag Ultima 9-13

Fubag Ultima 9-13
This is a chameleon-type product with the ability to manually adjust the filter. It is light, comfortable, and responds well to changes in lighting. An excellent option for any master.

The cost of this mask starts from 2800 rubles. Light sensitivity is adjustable smoothly, the degree of darkness can be adjusted within 9-13 DIN. In the cleared state, the filter is darkened to level 4 DIN. The filter clarification time can be adjusted within 0.15-0.8 s. Without adjustment, it dims in 0.4ms. A number of elements of the mask are powered by a solar panel and a battery. The dimensions of the viewing window are 10x4.9 cm. Weight is just under 450 g.

Users write that this mask is comfortable in every sense, very light, responds quickly to changes in light, and is of fairly high quality. Overall it has a very good build, and the large window allows for an excellent level of visibility into the work surface. Disadvantage: fragility. After six months, the mask may begin to quickly lose its darkening level during use.

pros

• comfortable
• good build
• large viewing window
• many adjustment possibilities
• light

Minuses

• starts to darken over time

Prices for welding helmet Fubag Ultima 9-135

Fubag Ultima 9-13

No. 3 - Resanta MS-5

Resanta MS-5
Mask with the ability to easily change the filter and adjust it to your own working conditions. Convenient and generally reliable, with virtually no flaws.

The cost of the model starts from 3,400 rubles. The mask allows you to adjust the light sensitivity of the filter in steps and change the darkness level from 9 to 13 DIN. The lightening speed varies from 0.03 to 4 s - it is easy to adjust to your own working conditions. The filter without adjustment responds to changes in illumination in 0.3 ms. There are on and off systems, as well as a grinding mode. The dimensions of the viewing window are 6x10 cm. Weight is 0.55 kg.

Users generally found no drawbacks to this option. On the contrary, they write that the mask is perfectly adjustable, has a large viewing window, and is easy to use. There are many options on how to adjust it to suit you.

pros

• darkens quickly
• many adjustment possibilities
• comfortable
• quite light
• large viewing window

Minuses

• there are none as such

Prices for welding helmet Resanta MS-5

Resanta MS-5

No. 2 - Aurora SUN-7 Tig Master

Aurora SUN-7 Tig Master
One of the best masks in its category, according to user reviews and their ratings. You can install diopter lenses and protective glass on it. This original model is also equipped with a number of additional functions such as self-testing.

The cost of the product starts from 4000 rubles. A mask that allows you to easily adjust all the settings to suit you, from the filter’s light sensitivity to the degree of darkness from 5 to 13 DIN. The filter clarification time is adjustable within 0.3-0.9 s. Without adjustment, the filter operates in 0.03 ms. Arc sensors - 4. Power type - solar battery and battery. The viewing window is 5.5x9.9 cm. The weight of the mask is 0.5 kg.

Users write that this mask is very comfortable, quickly responds to changes in light, and is easy to customize. Its design is very stylish, with original colors. No cons found.

pros

• comfortable
• stylish design
• 4 arc sensors
• many customization options
• self-test function

Minuses

• not detected

Prices for welding helmet Aurora SUN-7 Tig Master

Aurora SUN-7 Tig Master

No. 1 – Fubag Optima 4-13 Visor

Fubag Optima 4-13 Visor
Mask, recognized as one of the best on the market in its category. It is she who collects a lot of positive reviews and ratings from many users. And there is a reason for it.

The cost of the option starts from 3,400 rubles. The degree of filter darkening can be adjusted within the range of 4-13 DIN. You can also change the time it brightens from 0.25 to 0.8 s. Without adjustment, the filter operates in 0.04 ms. The model is equipped with a self-regulation function and has 4 arc sensors located inside. The viewing window is quite large - 6.5x10 cm.

Users choose this mask for its excellent value for money and functionality. The model has a light filter with excellent characteristics, is easy to set up, has optimal dimensions in general and the dimensions of the viewing window in particular. However, there is a minus - the mask itself is durable, but the filter is quite fragile.

pros

• low price
• comfortable headband
• functionality
• simple and convenient adjustment
• high strength
• works well when changing light levels

Minuses

• fragile filter

Prices for welding helmet Fubag Optima 4-13 Visor

Fubag Optima 4-13 Visor

Reviews of welding helmet Fubag Optima 4-13 Visor

How does a welding helmet work?

Working with a welding machine is associated with dangerous factors for any master: the welding arc produces a dazzling light that has a negative effect on the organs of vision, and besides, it is a source of powerful infrared and ultraviolet radiation, which also causes great harm to health. In addition, during welding, all kinds of toxic substances are formed in the air, as well as droplets of hot molten metal. That is why it is so important to follow simple safety recommendations during welding work. And one of them is the use of a special welding helmet.

The mask is the main element of protection for the welder

A welder's mask is the main element of protection for any welder. The purpose of its use is to protect a person from all the negative factors listed above.

Attention! Failure to use a welding mask can lead to burns not only to the skin, but also to the cornea and blindness.

Let's look at the operating principle and design of a welding helmet. It consists of a housing that is put on the head and protects not only the face, but also the neck, a light filter that allows you to prevent too much bright light from entering the organs of vision, a headband or a belt that secures the mask on the head, a steam vent that prevents the window from fogging, as well as a number of elements which need to be changed periodically. Among them, for example, are protective filters made of polycarbonate. All materials from which such masks are made are impact-resistant and, most importantly, heat-resistant. Most often, the product casing is made of tightly compressed cardboard or heat-resistant plastic. The color of the mask is usually black or gray, but now bright and even stylish options with an unusual design have begun to appear on sale. Only the interesting colors are done not for beauty, but so that the working welder is better visible to other craftsmen somewhere at a construction site.

The structure of a chameleon mask

The mask is securely fixed on the welder’s head, which means his hands are completely free, which increases comfort and convenience during work. And labor productivity increases, since in this case only one person is enough to weld one element.

What types of welding masks are there? Types of protective filters

The main element of any mask is a light filter. It is this that protects the organs of vision from the negative light effects of the welding arc. Let's figure out what it is like.

The structure of the chameleon mask filter

Table. Types of filters.

Advice! If possible, opt for a chameleon mask, even if you plan to rarely perform welding work. This mask is more expensive, but overall it will be more convenient and effective.

Some chameleon-type masks can be adjusted and customized in every possible way. For example, adjust the level of darkness, light sensitivity (it will help change the threshold of the filter), the time of illumination (will not allow the mask to quickly brighten, even when the welding is already completed, and the metal itself is still glowing).

Darkness level of welding filters

The masks themselves can be divided into three types: a shield, a regular mask and a mask with a lifting filter. Additionally, some models are equipped with filtration systems, helmets, headphones and other protective elements that provide additional comfort during work and increase the level of protection.

There are also products with forced air supply. They will help the master breathe comfortably during work. The fact is that during welding, gases formed during the melting of the electrode and the welding process enter the air. This smoke is very harmful to health. And if it is released in a confined space, it can lead to serious poisoning of the welder. And masks with forced filtration will help you breathe fresh air calmly. Due to a small motor that draws air through the filter, oxygen flows through the hose directly under the mask. Of course, the system requires additional equipment, but in some cases its purchase is justified.

Types of welding helmets

Gone are the days when all specialists used the same models of fiberboard masks. Now on the market of professional protective equipment there is such an abundance of materials, shapes, and additional functions that even one’s eyes run wild. What are their differences? Let's try to figure it out.

All masks are divided into 2 basic categories: “active” and “passive” welding helmet. The “active” filter darkens when an arc occurs (that is, an automatic reaction to a light flash occurs), while the viewing glass of the “passive” has a constant darkening.

The advantage of the first type is that as soon as welding stops, the color of the glass becomes light and the worker sees the object in its normal form. Unlike a “passive” one, such a mask does not need to be raised during pauses between welding operations, which creates additional convenience in the work of the master.

Welding helmets come in several types:

1. A regular mask is a protective shield for a welder. Basic protection for the welder's face; is a simple design with a permanently darkened filter and a handle to hold it:

1. A “chameleon” mask is a type of welding helmet with automatic darkening of the light filter at the first sign of a welding arc:

1. Welding mask with forced air supply (or with blowing) for work in special conditions:

1. Mask with a lifting light filter - used for combined work:

It should be noted that professional welders rarely make do with one mask; Their arsenal, as a rule, contains several different protective equipment that functionally complement each other. For example, when performing welding using a semi-automatic welding machine, a specialist can work in a “chameleon”, and when switching to non-consumable electrodes, he exchanges it for a regular welder’s shield.

How to choose a welding mask

Masks are actively used:

• enterprises;
• metalwork shops;
• on construction sites;
• ONE HUNDRED;
• in workshops.

For such organizations, welding helmets are purchased by the owner of the enterprise and then given to employees. But often the products are also used privately in the country house or in the garage. Here you will have to make a choice yourself. Of course, in this case you can purchase a simpler and cheaper product, since it will be used quite rarely in any case.

So where to start? First you need to look at the appearance of the mask - it should be without visible defects. Pay attention to the design, weight and dimensions, evaluate the possibilities of adjusting the product to the parameters of your head. You need to look not only at the size of the headband, but also at the seating depth and the tilt of the mask. In some models, the distance between the filter and the face can be adjusted - this mask will be most comfortable. All adjustment mechanisms must be durable and reliable in appearance. In general, you should not experience any serious discomfort when wearing a mask.

Try on a welding helmet

The correct shape of the casing will provide additional protection. But this parameter can only be determined in practice. The mask should have good streamlining and elongation at the bottom so that scale does not fall on the neck and chest. And such a model will provide better protection from smoke. The top of the product should have a rounding that will protect against scale getting on the top of the head.

Look at the size of the light filter: the larger it is, the better the view in such a mask. But such a product is considered more fragile, and this must be taken into account. The screens of the masks are standard - from 9x3.2 cm to 11x9.3 cm. For those who can look directly at the work area, you can take options with a small window. And for those who work in difficult conditions (for example, with pipes placed close to walls), it is better to take a mask with a larger window.

Weight is also of great importance. After all, your head and neck will hold the mask. The weight of the products varies from 0.35 to 0.9 kg. It depends on the design of the mask. The lighter the product, the better, because then the load on the neck will be less.

When choosing a filter, its light sensitivity and level of protection, consider the conditions in which you will work. Here you need to look at the optical class of the product. It characterizes the accuracy of the picture. If the optical class is equal to one, then there will be no distortion of objects at all. The transparency of the filter depends on light scattering. There is also uniformity of darkening - homogeneity. There is also the concept of angular darkness - it shows how much darkness depends on the viewing angle. All these positions can have a value from 1 to 3.

Optical characteristics of the welding filter

Example! If the optical class of a mask is designated as 1/3/2/1, then this means that it has clarity class 1, light dispersion level 3, homogeneity level 2, angular darkening 1. Ideally, if the designations of the mask have units everywhere, that is 1/1/1/1.

Chameleon masks can have various adjustment options: dimming, opening delay time, sensitivity. They can be either internal or external, and their switching can be stepped or smooth. Good masks have all three types of adjustments. Internal type adjustment elements are suitable if the mask will be used almost always under the same conditions. For those whose working conditions are constantly changing, it is better to take the option with external adjustment. It is also suitable for using one mask by different people.

See also how quickly the chameleon filter works when the light level changes. Usually the speed is high and amounts to 0.001 seconds, that is, the mask is guaranteed to protect the eyes from flashes of light. But the lower the air temperature in the place where the welder works, the slower the filter operates, and this must be taken into account when working outdoors or in cold rooms.

A good mask darkens very quickly when a welding arc occurs.

Attention! If you plan to weld with argon, then the mask must be suitable for this type of welding. Not all models are suitable for it. But if the mask is designed for such work, then it will work for everyone else.

Each mask must have an appropriate certificate. Only its presence will confirm the safety and effectiveness of the product. Of course, you need to carefully read the instructions for using the mask. By the way, it contains information about certification and other useful information. Types of certification:

• CE - one sample from the series must be tested before sale;
• DIN - 10 samples are tested after two years and under working conditions;
• DIN plus - 10 masks are tested every year under working conditions.

If you choose a chameleon mask, then pay attention to the type of nutrition of its elements. They are necessary to provide energy to the crystals in the filters. Most masks are equipped with a built-in battery or rechargeable battery. They need to be changed regularly for the product to work. But it is convenient if the mask is also equipped with a solar battery, which absorbs light and generates energy. The battery life in this case is much longer.

Advice! If a mask with a solar battery has been lying idle for a long time in the dark, then before using it you need to recharge it a little in the light, otherwise the light filter will not work.

Welding masks

The times when a welding helmet looked like a bulky helmet with a small tinted glass are long gone. A modern welding helmet is an easy-to-use and functional accessory, different models of which may have their own characteristics. When choosing a welding helmet, first you need to decide what exactly you need - a full mask, a shield or goggles. The last two options are lightweight and small in size, but this mask protects the welder’s eyes and face. At the same time, using a mask is also good because both of your hands will be free.

One of the most popular and effective options for welding masks is the chameleon mask. The name of the variety indicates that its glass automatically darkens when welding begins. When choosing such an accessory, you need to pay attention, first of all, to its manufacturer. If it is not indicated, then most likely you have a product of very questionable quality.

Most modern chameleon welding helmets have the ability to adjust the dimming as well as the sensitivity. In addition, some models are characterized by a short delay between the completion of welding and opening of the filter. It is also worth considering that when working in the cold this time increases.

Another important parameter of a welding helmet is the comfort of wearing it. If you do welding work often and for a long time, then this parameter is decisive for you. The mask should sit comfortably and securely on your head, without being too tight or too heavy. If you choose a mask that completely covers your face and throat, it will be more convenient to work if such a model has a ventilation system. This will especially help when working in the hot season.

Important parameters for a welding helmet are also the minimum and maximum degree of darkness. It is these characteristics that determine what types of welding you can work with. A mask that will be comfortable for working with argon-arc welding is also perfect for stick electrodes.

Remember that the more settings and adjustments the mask you choose has, the wider the range of conditions in which you can work in it. Professional welders know that each type of welding requires its own degree of darkness, so when choosing an accessory for regular welding work on various machines, try to provide all the options. External adjustments are much more convenient than internal ones, since they can be adjusted directly during work.

A professional welding helmet always has three darkening parameters - filter opening delay period, sensitivity and degree of darkening. The adjustment can be smooth or stepped.

The larger the visible area of ​​a mask, the more convenient it will be to work in it, so you should also pay attention to this parameter.

User voting

Which mask would you choose or recommend?

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15.38 % ( 2 )

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7.69 % ( 1 )

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15.38 % ( 2 )

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30.77 % ( 4 )

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