For this reason, the amperage for welding will vary between the metals. The type of metal you intend to weld will determine the shade number in that, different metals have different arc intensities. Such shades tend to filter most radiation light compared to a lens with a lower shade number.įactors to Consider when Determining the Best Shade Number 1. For MIG welding, for example, welders would typically need lenses ranging from shade 10 to 13. The Shade Numberĭifferent lenses have different shade numbers depending on the type of welding. For light welding, which uses low amperage, lighter shades lenses are appropriate. The darker lens will have the power to filter out more harmful radiation light produced due to using a higher amperage to weld. The more the amperage, the darker the lens you will be required to use. The shade of the lens varies with the amount of amperage in your welding session. For complex work, such as MIG welding, use a variable lens. The variable lenses are the most widely used due to their ability to darken to various shades.Ī fixed shade lens suffices when working on a simple project like welding a single material with a single process. The fixed lenses usually darken to a single shade and are usually fitted on passive welding helmets. Welding lenses come in two forms, fixed and variable lenses. A helmet with 2 sensors is sufficient for simple work, but MIG welding requires helmets with more sensors. Getting a helmet with over 3 sensors will ensure accurate measurements, especially when dealing with various lights within the vicinity. The sensors measure the light in the surrounding. Most welding helmets come with fitted arc sensors within a range of 2 to 4. The more advanced and robust lenses have a reaction time estimated above 1/20,000 seconds. For a simple lens shade, the reaction time is estimated to be about 1/3,600 seconds. Lens reaction time is the duration taken by the lens to switch from regular to protective shade. Factors To Consider When Choosing A Lens Shade 1. Refrain from picking helmets that lack this qualification. This standard provides the criteria that all welding helmets should meet to be categorized as safe for welding functions. Among the simplest ways of validating is to check whether the helmet meets the ANSI Z87.1 standard. Always validate the specifications indicated on the helmet by checking its mark of quality. How to Determine the Safety of your Helmet’s Shade Numberīefore putting on a helmet and relying on it to protect your eyes, ensure it fulfills its purpose. A large number of these cases are related to welding.

Having the appropriate shade lens will protect a welder from radiations, spatters, and sparks produced during welding.Īccording to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission report, over 10,000 eye injury cases are reported in the USA annually.

Among the essential items in a welder’s protective equipment kit is a shade lens.

Shade 14 welder glass