Welding produces sparks and bright lights, so you must wear a welding helmet when you work. If you’re interested in picking up this hobby, understand the distinctions between different products to pick the right one for your situation. Here are a few of the most popular helmet varieties and their unique advantages.

What Are the Different Types of Welding Helmets?

1. Passive

This is the standard welding helmet. It’s fairly simple and primarily designed to protect you from potential threats, such as sparks, elevated temperatures, and ultraviolet rays.

This option is popular for beginners. It has a fixed lens, so you don’t have to adjust it based on the lighting conditions and nature of your project. This is ideal if you use only one type of weld in the same environment every time.

2. Auto-Darkening

If you work with different materials, consider this option. The product is designed to adjust the darkness level as you work depending on the type of weld you use.

Its responsiveness benefits those who don’t want to worry about adjusting the lens when faced with brighter light. Battery-powered, this type of helmet is customizable based on project duration.

3. Solar-Powered

This option uses solar power instead of batteries to provide the same auto-darkening feature. It typically comes with sensors that detect the type of weld you perform to provide the required protection. 

For it to work effectively, you have to charge it overnight before you begin work. However, you may save on battery replacements over time.
 

If you’re just getting started in the welding world, make sure you have all of the right materials on hand. With locations in Waynesboro, Charlottesville, and Harrisonburg, VA, Wayne Oxygen & Welding Supply Co. provides all supplies you need, including compressed gases and helmets. Visit their website for more information on available equipment, or call (540) 942-4145 to ask about their inventory.