Nationwide Shipping Across NZ
How to Set the Correct Lens Shade on Your Auto-Darkening Helmet
So, you”ve got an auto-darkening helmet, but how do you ensure it”s set to protect your eyes for different welding tasks? Let”s dive in.
Understanding Lens Shades
Auto-darkening helmets operate within specific shade ranges, typically #6-#9 and/or #9-#13. Many also feature a lower shade setting, often #3.5 or #4, for “grind mode.” This enhances visibility during grinding or prep work, reducing the need to remove the helmet.
Here”s a guide to selecting the correct shade for your welding process and amperage:
Shade selection isn’t the only thing you should be aware of. A lot of auto-darkening welding helmets also include delay and sensitivity controls. These further protect you, by tailoring the adjustments to suit your specific task, environment and lighting conditions.
Sensitivity Controls
Sensitivity controls adjust how much brightness triggers the lens to darken. This is particularly important:
-
When welding at low amperages (e.g., TIG welding).
-
When working in close proximity to other welders, as it prevents accidental darkening from nearby arcs.
Switch Speed
The switch speed measures how quickly the lens transitions from light to dark. Faster adjustment times provide better eye protection, especially for frequent welders.
-
Entry-level helmets: ~1/3,600 of a second.
-
Professional helmets: ~1/20,000 of a second.
Delay Controls
Delay controls determine how long the lens stays dark after the arc stops. Adjustable delays (0.5 to 2 seconds) are beneficial:
-
Short Delays: Ideal for tack welding, allowing quick repositioning.
-
Long Delays: Useful for high-amperage welding, where cooling metal emits harmful rays.
So to keep your eyes protected, make sure you’ve got your helmet set to the right shade level for the job, and also adjust your delay and sensitivity controls for the environment you’re working in.
Available to everyone
View stock levels & shipping times
Access to trade accounts, & order history