For certified welders, welding helmets are an essential piece of safety equipment. They protect from heat, sparks, and UV rays that are produced during different arc welding procedures. Auto-darkening filters save time and completely eliminate exposure to these hazards. If you want to learn more about this feature, here’s a guide to all that darkening helmets do.

Regular Lenses Vs. Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet Lenses

In the past, welders had to prepare for jobs without helmets because they blocked their vision. Once it was time to start the work, they could then use the dark helmet for protection. However, the tint on the lens did not block harmful UV light and infrared radiation that is generated during arc welding.

Auto-darkening filters have eliminated these shortcomings with electronic shutters that darken automatically after detecting bright welding arcs. This allows you to wear your helmet during all stages of the work.

Benefits of These Lenses

The weld area is extremely bright, leading to conditions like arc eye and burned retinas, which can even cause blindness. Sunburn-like inflammations can form on exposed skin that’s subjected to the heat and sparks emitted during welding.

Made from a combination of glass, metal, and liquid crystal cells, auto-darkening filters can absorb 99.99% of harmful UV radiation created by welding arcs.

How to Use This Feature

With a fully charged battery, welders can adjust the amount of time lenses take to darken after detecting a welding arc. Delays can vary, with faster times ranging from .25 to .35 seconds, while slower settings are around .6 to .8 seconds. This allows people to customize their device based on how long a weld will take.

Most of these welding helmets also let you adjust the brightness setting according to the type of weld you’re performing, since different kinds produce various levels of sparks. Workers are encouraged to use the darkest shade recommended for their job. Before use, you should also test the darkening feature with your head turned away from the welding arc to make sure it’s functional. 

Since 1959, Wayne Oxygen & Welding Supply Co. in Waynesboro, Charlottesville, and Harrisonburg, VA, has provided top-notch products and supplies for welding projects. They offer unmatched knowledge and welding goods, including compressed gas, welding helmets, and carbon dioxide. Visit their website for a look at their services or call (434) 295-2334 to discuss your needs.