How to use a welding mask

How to set up a chameleon mask for welding? — Metals, equipment, instructions

Welding, regardless of the specific type and method, is a rather dangerous process. The organs of vision are most at risk. Therefore, welding helmets with highly tinted glass have been created that can provide complete eye protection.

However, using conventional masks comes with one difficulty: the problem of igniting the welding machine. The fact is that until the welding arc is ignited, practically nothing can be seen through the mask.

You have to start the welding machine blindly; one careless movement, especially when working with thin metal, can completely render the workpiece unusable. If you do not use a mask, then bright light will negatively affect eye health.

To solve this problem, chameleon welding masks were created. It got its name from the presence of special light filters in its structure. In normal condition, when the welding machine is turned off, the degree of darkness is 4 DIN, this value is sufficient to ensure normal inspection. As soon as the welding arc starts, the degree of darkness instantly increases to levels from 9 to 13 DIN.

A chameleon-type welding helmet allows you to solve two problems at once: eye protection and ease of operation when the welding machine is turned off. It is for this unique ability that masks of this type have gained their popularity among both amateurs and professionals. But a “chameleon” mask is much more difficult to choose than a classic one.

There are many manufacturers that produce chameleon masks for welding. In addition to differences in technical characteristics, they may differ in purpose, for example, for classical gas welding, for semi-automatic welding, in an environment of protective inert gases, etc. In order to choose the right mask for the required type of work, you need to know their differences.

It is also worth noting that the production of chameleon-type welding masks is strictly regulated by state standards.

Classification

The state standard, in accordance with which masks are produced, obliges all manufacturers to apply markings to the outer surface of the product. Since the main difference between a “chameleon” and a regular classic mask is the ability to automatically adjust the darkening, the classification occurs according to the technical parameters associated with this property.

The marking consists of four digits separated by a fractional symbol. Each number represents a specific characteristic. It can take values ​​in the range from one to three, where one indicates the highest level of quality, three the lowest. In addition, you also need to know the designation of each number.

1. The first digit indicates the optics class of the product. It determines the quality of vision through the glass of a mask with a light filter. The main components that influence changes in this parameter are the quality of the original glass, the light filter and the film used.

2. The second number tells us the degree of light scattering. This parameter indicates the degree of haze of the image obtained through the glass of the mask. The quality of this characteristic is determined by the purity of the liquid crystals used.

3. The third number determines the uniformity of the degree of darkness. The fact is that the glass in chameleon-type welding helmets is darkened unevenly. The parameter value indicates how much the darkest zone can differ from the lightest.

4. The last digit shows the value of the angular dependence. Its value tells us how dependent the light filter is on the angle of flashes entering the field of view of the mask.

Operating principle of chameleon type welding helmets

The welding helmet is very similar to other products of a similar role when considered in terms of design. "Chameleon" consists of several main components:

• body - is the basis for the entire structure, as a rule, it is made of fire-resistant durable material, which protects the head from metal splashes and the effects of high temperatures;
• light filter - this component is responsible for automatically adjusting the dimming level (some models also support manual adjustment);
• motherboard - without this component, automatic adjustment is impossible; it is a small chip that runs on battery power;
• power source - thanks to it, the system board operates; a lithium-ion battery is used to power it; if the welding helmet is equipped with two power sources, then most often the second is a solar battery.

In the normal state, without exposure to light from the welding machine, the glass of the mask is slightly darkened. It is covered with a layer of darkening film and several layers of liquid crystals. They are the ones who create the light filter.

In a quiet state, the light filter does not work, but as soon as a flash from the welding machine enters its field of view, the signal is instantly sent to the system board, as a result of which the glass is automatically darkened. The entire process described takes a fraction of a second. After the welding machine turns off, the glass does not brighten immediately.

Different models perform this process with different times, in any case it does not exceed five seconds. This property allows you to increase the level of security in case of emergency situations. On most popular models, this parameter can also be adjusted.

Approximate technical characteristics of chameleon-type welding helmets

Chameleon masks for welding have the following technical characteristics. The specific value of a particular parameter may change depending on the specific mask model. The general meanings are:

• glass dimensions have a universal standard: 110x90x9 (length, width and thickness), however, there are specialized models in which this parameter can take other values;
• The darkening level in standard mode for almost all models is 4 DIN;
• the degree of darkness in operating mode can take values ​​in the range from 9 to 13 DIN;
• the response speed of the light filter can be from several ten-thousandths to three hundredths of a second;
• adjustment of the degree of darkening can be carried out both jerkily and smoothly;
• Almost every model has two sensors at its disposal;
• lithium-ion batteries and solar panels are used as power sources;
• the body is made of durable material that is resistant to high temperatures and open flames;
• The weight of the product is approximately half a kilogram.

How to use a chameleon welding helmet

Before using the product for its intended purpose, you must read the instructions for use, which are always present in the original packaging. Before starting welding work, you need to perform the following manipulations.

1. Conduct a full technical inspection for defects, breakdowns or defects. If the mask is to be used for the first time after purchase, you need to remove the protective films from the entire surface.

It is also necessary to remove the protective film under the plate; to do this, you need to dismantle it, remove the protection, and install it back.

Important: when checking, you should always pay attention to the technical condition of the cable that connects the light filter to the system board and control unit.

2. After inspection, if there are no defects, you can begin setting up the “chameleon”. It is performed in the following order:

• adjust the process of opening and closing the mask using special clamps;
• Next you need to adjust the working angle;
• You can also configure individual parameters, which include: the distance from the glass to the organs of vision, adjust the technical parameters of the product (if required);

3. After all checks and settings have been completed, you need to adjust the dimming level. To do this, you need to use a special control unit.

How to charge batteries in masks of this type?

The method for charging the battery depends on its type. If the mask uses a regular lithium-ion power source, then it can be charged using a regular household outlet of two hundred and twenty volts. Almost always, a charging adapter is included with the product.

If solar batteries are used as a power source, then the “chameleon” needs to be charged in the sun, or in bright, targeted light. If the mask is equipped with two types of batteries at once, then the charging process can be combined.

What to look for when purchasing?

The most important parameter to pay attention to when purchasing a chameleon welding helmet is the auto-darkening speed. The higher it is, the safer the welder’s visual organs are. It is best to purchase a model in which the light filter is adjusted smoothly, as this has less impact on the eyes and provides additional comfort during use.

The second thing you should pay attention to is the number of batteries. It is best if the welding helmet has two different power sources. This will protect against unexpected battery drain.

Important: despite a fairly large number of important parameters, first of all, when purchasing, you need to be guided by the comfort of using a welding helmet.

The more layers of liquid crystals a product has, the better. However, as they increase, the cost of the welding helmet also increases. Also an important parameter is the weight of the “chameleon”; the mask should not be too heavy.

  Brands of welding electrodes and their classification

Welding helmets of this kind are created both at domestic and foreign factories. It is worth mentioning several of the most popular brands: Centaur, Dnepr, Optech, Cosmos, etc.

Source: https://spb-metalloobrabotka.com/kak-nastroit-masku-hameleon-dlya-svarki/

How to adjust a chameleon welder's mask

On the market you can find two types of shields, with a fixed degree of darkness and chameleon masks. Masks of the second type are distinguished by their higher cost and the presence of an automatic light filter that can respond to the intensity of light radiation, thereby protecting vision.

The principle of operation of the chameleon welding mask is based on the fact that the light filter instantly reacts to light radiation and, depending on the intensity of the latter, automatically darkens the light radiation. The auto-darkening filter, in turn, has a layered structure in which layers of liquid crystals alternate with special films.

At the moment the arc is ignited, the crystals are arranged in a certain order and do not allow part of the light to pass through.

chameleon welding helmet diagram

Based on this principle, you can effectively protect your eyesight from the influence of bright vision.

Existing faults. Do-it-yourself chameleon welding helmet repair

Let's look at the question of why the shield may not work. Let's look at typical welding helmet malfunctions. It often happens that a chameleon welding mask does not perform its main function, namely, it does not reduce the level of light radiation. The essence of the problem may lie in dead batteries.

The chameleon welding helmet can be powered by both regular AAA batteries and a solar panel located on the body. Simply put, replacing the battery can solve the problem. If we consider the first method of powering the shield with energy, then simply insert the batteries into it.

If powered by a battery, you need to hold the shield under a bright light to charge it.

But even after this procedure, you may find that the shield still does not work. The reason may be the protective glass. Typically, with this type of malfunction, cracks, chips and other mechanical damage are visible on the glass. In this case, it is necessary to replace the liquid crystal glass, which is the most expensive component in the mask. It is important to remember that the new glass must fully comply with the previous one in all respects.

The filter may blink. Here the protective glass may be either simply dirty or damaged. In this case, it is better to immediately change the filter with protective glass.

It is better not to repair the light filter of a welding helmet yourself. It would be better to contact specialists at a service center. This will cost money, but the service center can accurately identify the cause of the breakdown and specialists will easily fix it.

Poor visibility does not have a beneficial effect on vision, so it is important to properly secure the headband, install a good lighting source in the workplace, remove the film from the protective glass, and adjust the degree of darkness. At low temperatures, there may be a delay in dimming. Do not use the mask at temperatures below - 10 degrees Celsius.

How to properly set up a chameleon mask for welding? What do you need to remember when working?

In order to know how to set up the mask and how to check its performance, it is better to refer to the operating instructions. Important to remember:

• the chameleon mask is not suitable for plasma and gas welding and cutting;
• Do not leave the shield on a hot surface;
• It is better not to disassemble the filter cartridge;
• the shield will not withstand strong impacts;
• Changes cannot be made to the filter. It is allowed to use spare parts specified in the instructions;
• if the chameleon welding helmet does not darken the image, you need to stop working and identify the possible cause of the malfunction;
• it is necessary to prevent moisture from entering the light filter;
• When cleaning the shield, it is not recommended to use detergents and solvents;
• the headband for putting on can cause an allergic reaction, the straps must be adjusted correctly to prevent skin irritation;
• In order to change the batteries, switch the shield to grinding mode. When the red light on the filter lights up, you need to replace the batteries;
• Before starting work, you need to adjust the mask to suit yourself to achieve maximum comfort. You can select the darkness level, delay time and sensitivity level.

Carrying out maintenance

In order to reduce the likelihood of breakdown to zero, it is necessary to carry out maintenance from time to time. The minimum interval between repairs should be one month.

To remove dirt and dust, you can use a cotton cloth pre-moistened with a non-aggressive liquid. Do not use oil-containing cleaning agents or abrasive materials as this may damage the protective shield.

All cleaning actions must be carried out carefully; do not put too much pressure on the material.

Types of adjustments for chameleon welding helmets

There are several types of adjustments in a welding helmet. Before starting work, it is extremely important to configure all the characteristics. This is necessary for the most effective use of the mask when working. The following are the types of adjustments.

Preparation under the head

It is extremely important to securely fix the shield on your head. The diameter of the headband can be adjusted using a handle located on the back of the head.

The procedure must be carried out with a shield on the head, which will allow you to obtain the necessary tension. If the headband sits high or low, it should be adjusted using a belt passing through the top of the head.

Before starting work, check the fit of the shield. If it does not sit securely, you need to readjust it.

Adjusting the distance from the eyes to the filter

The mask can be moved away from the eyes and brought closer to the eyes by loosening the locking nuts. The distance from both eyes and the filter should be equal. If everything is done correctly, the locking nuts should be tightened.

Adjusting the darkness level

Depending on the type of welding and the current value, you can select the required degree of darkening from the table. This can also be done during operation using the regulator, which is located on the outside of the shield.

Adjusting sensitivity

There are two types of sensitivity: high and low. For most cases, you can set the control knob to the middle position. When working in TIG mode at low current values, maximum sensitivity is required.

For optimal settings, it is better to set the sensitivity to maximum, and then reduce it until the filter begins to perceive light radiation only from the welding arc, and not from external light sources (the sun, lighting lamps, etc.).

The required degree of sensitivity can also be selected according to a scheme where each type of welding has its own level of sensitivity.

Source: https://MyTooling.ru/instrumenty/kak-otregulirovat-masku-svarshhika-hameleon

Welding mask

There are working professions that require the use of various equipment that is not entirely safe for human health. This category includes the specialty of a welder. When working with welding machines, the use of special protective equipment is required. A welding helmet is the most important device that can protect the health and life of a worker.

What is a welding helmet

This is a means of protecting the face and eyes of the welder while working with professional equipment. The design of the mask is thought out in such a way as to protect the face to the greatest extent from molten metal and protect the eyes from the effects of the welding arc.

Modern manufacturers are continuously working to improve the protective properties of welding helmets. So, now you can buy masks that not only protect your face from metal splashes and sparks, but also protect from exposure to ultraviolet and infrared rays. One of these products with improved qualities is the Chameleon welding helmet.

What is a Chameleon mask?

This type of mask differs from standard models by its automatic and customizable light filter. This means that the built-in filter screen changes light transmission depending on external operating conditions.

The Chameleon welding helmet is made of durable and lightweight plastic, thanks to which the worker can perform professional functions for a long time without unnecessary fatigue and a feeling of physical heaviness. As a result, labor productivity increases. After all, working in such masks is not only safer, but also more comfortable.

Such features are very important for many industrial enterprises. Therefore, the Chameleon welding helmet is actively used by specialists working with metal.

Characteristics of the mask

The Chameleon welding helmet provides darkening of the filter screen at high speed. This ensures safety for the welder's eyes.

Most Chameleon models are solar-powered. This is very convenient and practical since there is no need to change the power source. In addition, this feature has a great economic effect.

The glass for the Chameleon welding helmet is equipped with an auto-replaceable light filter, which consists of several liquid crystal polarizing films and a filter against infrared and ultraviolet radiation. It may also contain, depending on the model, from 2 to 4 welding arc detection sensors.

All manufacturers of welding helmets strictly adhere to generally accepted regulations that govern the design of this protective mechanism. According to the standards, the welding helmet must be made of heat-resistant, durable material. The housing must contain a screen that provides high protection and good visibility. Depending on the model, the Chameleon mask may also have a head mount, a protective screen for the hand, additional light filters and other elements.

Types of Chameleon masks

Currently, manufacturers of protective devices produce a wide range of masks. The only characteristic that experts pay attention to is the speed of change of the light filter.

The “Chameleon” light filter for a welding helmet is considered the most important part, the characteristics of which distinguish all existing varieties of this protective device. For different working conditions, masks are produced with different filter response speeds.

According to this principle, “Chameleon” masks are conventionally distinguished with low (up to 1/5000 s), medium (1/5000–1/10,000 s) and high (from 1/10,000 to 1/35,000 s) darkening speeds. Of course, masks with a high speed of filter change are considered the most reliable.

They are the safest for eyesight and are recommended for long-term welding work.

Areas of application

The “Chameleon” mask is designed to protect the specialist’s face and eyes while performing welding work. The protective mask is used in all industries that use semi-automatic and argon-arc welding. In addition, “Chameleon” has the ability to install magnifying glasses, which is why this mask is widely used for performing high-precision and small-scale work.

How to choose the right protective mask

The efficiency and quality of work largely depends on how the Chameleon welding helmet is selected. Which one to choose? To answer this question, you need to have a good understanding of all the modifications of masks existing on the market and their design differences.

When choosing a mask, you first need to consider the conditions under which the welder will work and for how long. After all, the danger of welding work increases from the possibility of injury, poisoning from dangerous fumes, or getting burns to the eyes and face.

Main selection indicators

1. Brand – a quality mask should indicate the optical class, certification and the company that manufactured it. The absence of this information may indicate the low quality and dubious origin of the protective mask. The product must also come with a warranty.

   A high-quality Chameleon welding helmet must meet these requirements. The instructions for the product must contain information on operation and the full address of the manufacturer.

2. Possibility of adjustment and its types - professional masks have the ability to adjust sensitivity, degree of darkness, opening delay time after welding is completed.
3. Visibility in a mask – the larger the visible area, the more convenient it is to work.

   But we must take into account that filters of this design are less strong.

4. The weight of the mask and the design of the headband - the welding helmet should be comfortable and not interfere with professional work.
5. What type of welding is the built-in light filter intended for?

Additional selection criteria

In addition to the above parameters, the buyer may also be interested in other characteristics:

1. The degree of darkening depends on the angle of incidence of the radiation. Good masks should have several layers of quality filters.
2. The opening and closing time of the filter should not exceed 2 milliseconds. As a rule, all masks on the market meet this requirement. But during operation, malfunctions may sometimes occur. So, in cold weather, the response time of the filter slows down a little. This feature must be taken into account when working in cold weather.
3. The presence of a battery - it is designed to turn the filter on or off.
4. Certification – very often welding helmets are designated with the CE symbol. It means that one sample was tested before sales. The DIN marking provides information that the product is tested every two years in the amount of 10 samples. And DIN plus means that the same number of samples pass the test, but every year.
5. Arc detection method - in most cases, the optical method is used for Chameleon type welding helmets. To do this, special infrared sensors are installed in the mask.

These are the main parameters that it is recommended to pay attention to when you need a Chameleon welding helmet. The seller can help you which one to choose. He has the most information about all the new products and can successfully select a high-quality and comfortable mask.

Well-known manufacturers of welding helmets

Although there are many manufacturers of welding helmets on the market, not all of them produce truly high-quality products. You can name only a few companies that have gained credibility among buyers. These are the Swedish company Speedglas, the Swiss Optrel and the Slovenian Balder. They make the best Chameleon welding helmets.

Among Chinese-made masks, the most popular are products from the Tecmen factory. He produces good masks at an affordable price. The world leaders also include the Korean company Otos. The products of this manufacturer combine all the important qualities - reliability, excellent performance, comfort and affordable price.

Setup and repair instructions

A high-quality branded mask should always be sold with instructions. In the product documentation, the manufacturer provides a brief description of the product, a diagram of its structure and operating features. The instructions must also indicate how to set up the mask and precautions. All this information allows the buyer to learn how to properly use the protective element of a particular modification and prevent typical breakdowns.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgCWzMFkQEw

If the user follows all the manufacturer's recommendations, the number of breakdowns will be reduced to a minimum. The only problem that can render the mask inoperative is the need to change the batteries in the battery.

But sometimes more complex situations occur when a part needs to be replaced or a malfunction needs to be repaired.

In the product instructions, manufacturers strongly recommend not to repair Chameleon welding helmets yourself, but to contact service centers only.

User reviews about the “Chameleon” mask

Among all the protective elements on the market, the most popular is the Chameleon welding helmet. User reviews are mostly positive. Specialists who work for a long time wearing a protective mask of this type note its reliability and comfort. User opinions differ slightly regarding the manufacturer and cost.

Many people want to buy a reliable mask with a high filter speed, but at a low price. Such buyers often opt for well-advertised Chinese goods of dubious quality. In order not to pay twice, it is better to read the opinions of other users and thus decide what kind of Chameleon welding helmet you need.

Customer reviews are sometimes more valuable than advice from a top seller.

Source: https://www.syl.ru/article/182768/new_svarochnaya-maska-chameleon-instruktsiya-otzyivyi-sovetyi-po-vyiboru

How to set up a Chameleon mask for welding

01.08.2018

Like all other welding helmets, the Chameleon protects the welder's eyes from infrared radiation. The automatically adjustable light filter operates in a convenient mode: the screen changes the degree of darkness depending on the illumination of the working field. When the Chameleon welding helmet does not darken, it is dangerous to work.

You need to figure out why the screen is not working. Sometimes it is enough to change the power supply elements and charge the battery. A dirty screen reacts worse to light; it may need to be wiped. If this does not help, it is better to turn to professionals.

Adjusting the Chameleon welding helmet

To understand how the Chameleon welding helmet works, you need to know the basic structural elements of the protective device. The overview screen has a layered structure:

• fireproof glass that does not transmit ultraviolet and infrared radiation;
• layers of polymer crystals that change transmission capacity;
• In order for the filters to darken, they are connected to a current source;
• light sensors (from 2 to 4, depending on the model);
• connection diagram to the power supply.

At the moment of welding, a spark appears, then a luminous flux. The radiation triggers the sensors, the crystals are polarized, and the screen darkens. The welder sees the junction of metals within the range acceptable to the eye. After turning off the light source (electrode or arc), the sensors are triggered again. The screen brightens.

The tuning system regulates:

• the degree of screen darkening, it is selected according to the instructions, depending on the type of welding;
• sensitivity to changes in light flux;
• shutter speed, that is, the time period for turning off the light protection.

The adjustment is made at the preparatory stage, when the serviceability of the Chameleon mask is checked before work.

How to properly prepare a welding helmet for work is written in the operating instructions. Setting up a chameleon mask includes several steps:

• a convenient distance from the face to the protective screen is set, this is done by loosening the clamps;
• The position of the filter is adjusted, the comfort of viewing the working area depends on this;
• the intensity regulator is installed: it is determined in what mode the Chameleon welding mask is used, the operating instructions must contain adjustment tables;
• depending on the current strength of the welding machine and the illumination of the workplace, the sensitivity mode is selected; high is indicated by the letter “H”, low – “L”, minimum – “L0”, it is selected experimentally, it is easy to adjust the Chameleon welder masks during work;
• the holding time depends on the type of welding; for spot welding, a minimum interval is enough; for electrode welding, when a melt pool is formed, it is necessary for the screen to remain darkened longer.

Possible malfunctions and methods for eliminating them

1. The screen will not respond to light unless connected to a power supply. If the model is equipped with AAA alkaloid batteries or rechargeable batteries, charging indicators are displayed in the screen area. If the red light is on, it's time to replace the batteries. Solar panels are charged while welding. If the mask does not turn on, point it towards a light source for a few minutes.
2. If the screen darkens unevenly, check the distance from it to both eyes. Perhaps while they were adjusting the mask and adjusting it to the head, the filter shifted. It should be parallel to the face. Loosen the clamps and align the casing.
3. If the screen flickers during welding, it may be due to the outer glass. Sometimes it is enough to wash it. In case of mechanical damage (scratches, surface chips) it must be replaced. If the filter continues to act up, check the cleanliness of the sensor surface. When there are two operating modes (welding and grinding), check which position the switch is in. The screen may flicker when low-current welding in low sensitivity mode. The desired level can be established experimentally during operation.
4. The filter does not darken immediately in the cold. Viewing screens quickly change the degree of darkness in the temperature range from +50 to -10°C; Chameleons are not intended for harsh winters.
5. If the weld seam is difficult to see, there may be several reasons. Sometimes the film is forgotten on the protective glass. You can try cleaning it, switching the dimming control.

Source: https://svarkaprosto.ru/oborudovanie/kak-nastroit-masku-khameleon-dlya-svarki

How to choose a welding helmet for an amateur or a professional?

The welding mask is designed to protect the welder’s vision and skin from exposure to a whole spectrum of radiation and temperature. Initially, the design of an electric welder's mask was a simple shield made of hard black cardboard with tinted glass.

Electric arc welding is based on the fusion of metal under the influence of current (alternating or direct). Moreover, in addition to bright light (ultraviolet and infrared regions of the spectrum), the worker is exposed to a damaging factor in the form of splashes of molten metal and scale.

Without special protection, a welder risks acquiring a whole bunch of ophthalmological diseases (damage to the cornea, retina), as well as thermal burns, reminiscent of sunburn, for open areas of the skin - face, neck, hands.

The prototype of a modern helmet with protective functions was a product from the Willson company, introduced in the 40s of the 20th century. The principle of operation of a welding helmet with or without forced air supply is based on the use of the polarization effect achieved using light filters. Their roles are most often played by:

• tinted mineral glass
• special darkened plastic
• complex optical system triggered at the moment the arc is ignited (chameleon)

Kinds

Conventionally, all welder personal protective equipment can be divided into 2 large groups:

1. Goggles that are used with standard protective headgear (masks)
2. Shields and masks that do not require the use of additional protective elements

Each class has characteristic advantages as well as disadvantages. This includes the price category, compactness, and ease of use—indicators and characteristics that add up to the consumer’s opinion about the product.

Glasses

The simplest means of protection . They are intended only to ensure the safety of the visual organs, without protecting the face and open areas of the welder’s head and neck from burns or drops of molten metal.

It is the most common, not very expensive and effective equipment. Used for electric arc and gas welding. Choosing glasses is not difficult: the main indicator is the quality of the glass (plastic) inserts, their ability to darken a bright arc flash.

Shields and masks

The choice of a shield or mask is complicated by the fact that it is necessary to accurately know the anthropometric indicators of the welder. The main requirement for a helmet is a clear fit on the worker’s head . Usually, the manufacturer provides for adjusting the headband, but it is better to immediately choose a mask “for yourself,” depending on your needs and requirements.

This family of personal protective equipment includes various modifications, including hand shields, polarized masks, complex combined devices with an apparatus for full breathing , regardless of the composition of the environment, and so on.

Advantages

The advantages of glasses and masks should be clearly distinguished, since these are 2 different groups of protective equipment, although they are united by purpose (ensuring the safety of the welder).

Glasses are a relatively cheap, easy-to-use optical device. It is used by many gas and electric welders. Fixed on the head or helmet with an elastic band (elastic band), lightweight, immediately ready for work.

A helmet or mask is a closed headgear because it protects (isolates from the external environment) the face, neck and head of the welder . Provides complete absorption of light radiation from the arc, and in the case of forced air supply, also protects the respiratory system of the worker from combustion products.

Important! Which of the existing methods of protection to choose, which one will be correct, is decided by the welder himself, based on safety requirements or current labor protection standards at the enterprise. But, it should be remembered that trying to save on your own health, using insufficiently effective means, threatens serious problems in the future.

Problems

There are no perfect things, so glasses and masks are equally endowed with shortcomings. The welding helmet has a complex design, high cost, inevitable wear of the protective glass and body, and low resistance to mechanical damage (shocks). Glasses, on the contrary, are more convenient to use, but absolutely do not guarantee protection of the face, hair, scalp and neck.

Points

For all their lightness and ease of use, glasses have a number of serious disadvantages. They are strictly not recommended for working in the upper position, making ceiling and semi-ceiling seams. This limitation is associated with a high probability of hot metal splashing onto the welder’s face and neck.

The head must be protected especially carefully, because if you are careless, you can easily get injured, especially when working on a construction site or production workshop, or in cramped repair conditions.

Particularly convenient are glasses with a “Chameleon” filter (as a means of protecting your eyesight). The sensitive element instantly reacts to the ignition of the arc, changing the transparency of the glass. But this equipment also fully bears all the disadvantages mentioned above. Glasses of any type are not suitable for use in confined spaces without forced ventilation (rooms, containers, reservoirs). Here you will need a mask with air supply.

Manual and universal

Compared to glasses, masks provide a higher level of protection: they are not afraid of metal splashes, flying scale, even light collisions with oversized objects or protruding parts of structures. But at the same time, a helmet placed on the head creates considerable weight, a load on the welder working in it. It will be necessary to take technological breaks.

The stale air inside a closed shield also does not contribute to a long, fruitful process of labor activity.

The exception is a mask with forced ventilation (air supply), but it has a complex design and requires additional equipment. Hand guards get their name from the fact that they are held with your free hand. At first, you will need to get used to the peculiar manner of working with such equipment:

1. "Aiming". Bringing the electrode as close as possible to the welding site (without starting the process).
2. Putting on the shield.
3. Ignition of the arc, boiling of the unit.

In such devices, like many others, glass for a welder’s mask 110x90 of the most common standard size is used. This means one less problem (finding spare glass).

In relation to a universal mask, there are several limitations that determine the choice (or refusal) of such a solution. In the full sense, there are no wide-profile shields; for each type of work (gas, electric, inert atmosphere welding) one single option will be optimal. This applies to the design of the protection, the type of glass, and the overall complexity of the equipment.

Gas welders, who work primarily in the horizontal plane, often prefer goggles. For electric arc welding, in which drops of metal are scattered over considerable distances, a mask or shield would be more appropriate.

Shields on a helmet

A helmet-mounted visor is a solution often used in industry and large-scale production. A headgear (helmet) protects the welder from injury from objects falling from above, and a shield ensures the safety of his face and eyes from damage from bright light. There is only one drawback, but a serious one: the shield is difficult to attach to the helmet, it tends to come off it.

Chameleons

An excellent development - a mask with variable polarization, “chameleon”. But not everything is smooth with her either. Automation is always delayed by a fraction of a second, during which time the welder manages to catch the “bunny” (flash). The battery that controls the operation of the system often discharges at the wrong time (in the cold).

There may be problems replacing a damaged sensor or battery. And not all masks have the same response time; you need to find out this when purchasing . The next generation of these security products, the development of which began in the last century, projects information from external optical sensors onto the display. In this case, the image does not darken, but becomes clearer and brighter. The main disadvantage of such masks is their high cost.

How to choose

Many articles have been written about how to choose a welder’s mask so that it is convenient and comfortable to use. First of all, the mask is selected “for yourself” - taking into account the size of the head, anthropometry, and the scope of application of the equipment .

When working in a mask, the welder should not experience discomfort or fatigue. There are separate requirements for optics regarding response speed (data is indicated on the sticker and in the passport), and protection of vision from a bright flash.

Certification in the national system is mandatory.

How to use

Before starting work on the mask, adjust the headband . It should fit tightly around your head without causing discomfort. This position is maintained when tilted sideways, backwards, forwards.

The integrity of the body is checked - cracks and significant damage will not protect the welder from damaging factors. And over time they will lead to the destruction of the mask. In old-style products (without sensitive sensors), the welder first selects the arc ignition point (shield in the upper position), then lowers it with a sharp nod and begins work.

This is not required for “chameleons”, where the glass darkens automatically.

How to setup

Not every mask, even from a reputable manufacturer, allows adjustment. The response speed depends on the number of sensors (minimum 2, but sometimes 4) and the quality of the sensor. Regulators (where available) are located inside or outside the mask. They are customized to suit your needs to ensure 2 conditions are met: eye protection and full visibility of the welding area. The more expensive the product, the more additional settings and options it usually has.

Dependence of darkening on the angle of incidence of light

In the vast majority of budget solutions, this parameter is strictly fixed, 10 degrees in each direction. For more expensive products, a multilayer filter is used, or the angle is increased to 30 degrees.

Operating time (closing)

For modern specimens, this indicator is less than a thousandth of a second . Its value was determined experimentally in order to protect the eye from damage by the light flux. But the response time itself depends on the ambient temperature, the number of sensors, the condition of the battery, the presence of scratches, cracks, dirt on the protective glass and other factors.

Guarantee

There is no guarantee - there is no opportunity to exchange the product or make claims regarding its quality. Therefore, a completed warranty card with the seller’s stamp is required upon purchase.

Malfunctions

Some models suffer from the quality of sensors and filter response speed. There are problems with replacing failed batteries.

It is better to clarify these points in advance by consulting with sellers regarding possible failures and the repairability of the product.

Damage to the housing is inevitable, the extent of which depends on the careful use of the equipment.

Welding helmet manufacturers

Among others, the Italian brand Deca, the Croatian Limex, and the Chinese Forte are most often mentioned. There are also Russian Interskol, German Fubag, and Swedish Esab. In addition to the brand, you need to pay attention to the manufacturer of the sensor (polarizer), they may not be the same. Most major brands are backed by Chinese companies, which in itself is not a crime. At the same time, the quality of legal supplies will always be higher than those “made on the knees.”

Source: https://svarka.guru/oborudovanie/rashodniki-i-kompletuyushie/svarochnaya-maska.html

Solving the problem of non-darkening of the chameleon welding helmet

When welding, it is extremely important to provide yourself with protective equipment. During the process, a person is exposed to many dangers, such as the possibility of sparks and molten metal getting on the face and eyes, the harmful effects of gases and vapors of molten metals in the respiratory tract, the harmful effects of various types of radiation, and much more. In order to protect yourself from possible injuries, you must use a welding helmet.

articles

• Operating principle of the chameleon welding helmet
• Existing faults. Do-it-yourself chameleon welding helmet repair
• How to properly set up a chameleon mask for welding? What do you need to remember when working?
• Carrying out maintenance
• Types of adjustments for chameleon welding helmets
  • Preparation under the head
  • Adjusting the distance from the eyes to the filter
  • Adjusting the darkness level
  • Adjusting sensitivity
• Adjusting the delay time
• Finally

Adjusting the delay time

Adjustment is made using the regulator knob, which is located on the inside of the cartridge. A short delay is suitable for spot welding, and a long delay is suitable for welding with high amperage.

Finally

The auto-darkening shield perfectly neutralizes the negative effects of light radiation. There is a huge selection of such shields on the market, such as: welding mask Resanta MS 2, Bars MS-207, Centaur MS-30R and many others.

The shield must be checked upon purchase, otherwise you may purchase a defective or faulty shield. Repairing a chameleon welding helmet with your own hands is worth doing if the damage is not serious. For example, anyone can replace batteries or protective glass.

But if the malfunction is related to the light filter, then it is better to contact a service center, where the breakdown will be quickly identified and corrected.

Source: http://home.nov.ru/reshaem-problemu-nezatemneniya-svarochnoj-maski-xameleon/

Chameleon welding helmet does not darken: reasons, what to do, is it possible to fix it yourself

Welding work is a high-risk task, so a person must provide himself with reliable protection so as not to get hurt during work.

Very often a person suffers from sparks when working with metal, different types of radiation, gases and vapors are released during welding, different types of radiation

The Chameleon welding mask is your first assistant in protecting against unpleasant consequences during work.

Features when working with a chameleon welding helmet

There are usually two types of masks on sale: masks with a fixed degree of darkness and masks, also called chameleon.

Chameleons are more expensive, but they are also distinguished by their quality: they have an automatic light filter that instantly reacts to intense light, thereby protecting their eyesight.

Depending on the brightness of the light radiation, the Chameleon mask instantly darkens, which will protect the owner of the mask from eye damage.

The structure of the darkening filter is layered - the manufacturer has distributed it so that liquid crystals alternate with a special film.

The principle of operation of the mask can be described as follows: the crystals become in such an order that some of the light simply does not pass through.

How to fix it yourself

The main question is what is the problem with dimming. Let's see what goes wrong most often. A common defect is that a chameleon mask does not darken light radiation, and this is its main task.

One of the root causes may be batteries that have zero charge.

The mask has two batteries: standard AA batteries and solar energy, which is powered through a panel in the body. Usually just replacing the battery is enough.

But if replacing the batteries does not help, then you can try charging from solar energy, leaving the mask for a short period in the sun or bright light.

But this is not the main reason and the way to solve it. This is not one of the possible sources of the dimming problem. There may also be a problem with the protective glass. Usually this damage is visible to the naked eye: chips, cracks, abrasions.

The solution to this problem is usually to replace the mesomorphic glass, which is one of the most expensive elements of the mask. But only glass that is completely similar to the previous one will do, watch this carefully.

“If the light filter blinks, check whether the protective glass is dirty. In the worst case, it may be damaged. If it is damaged, the light filter with protective glass must be replaced.”

With such a problem, it is better to contact a specialist rather than deal with it yourself. The service center is here to help you. Of course, this is not the most economical option, but this way you will know that the root cause of the defect has been accurately identified and they know how to eliminate it.

When working with a welding machine, many factors affect vision impairment, which the Chamaleon mask helps prevent, therefore, when using the mask, make sure that the headband is properly secured, make sure there is good lighting, check that there is no protective film on the glass, and monitor the level of darkness.

High and low temperatures often affect the degree of darkening and may be the reason for its delay. The manufacturer warns that at -10C the Chameleon mask may not work correctly.

How to use a welding mask

Be sure to read the user manual before use, which can make it easier for you to adjust the mask for welding tasks and avoid any obscuring problems.

But remember:

• the Chameleon mask should fit tightly to your head and not create voids - this will give you confidence when working that the mask will not fall off and you will not be injured;
• To replace the power supply elements, it is necessary to transfer the shield to grinding. If the red light comes on, you need to change the batteries;
• if you are prone to allergies, then make sure that the belt for putting on does not rub the areas of contact, otherwise it is more likely that you may experience skin irritation;
• Do not use detergents or aggressive cleaning agents to clean the damper;
• the light filter does not handle moisture and may fail;
• if you notice that the quality of the darkening has deteriorated or is absent, then stop welding until the cause of the malfunction is determined;
• It is better not to change the specified settings for the light filter. Only the spare parts specified in the instructions are suitable for its adjustment;
• do not use physical force on the shield;
• It’s logical to take the filter cartridge to a specialist to find out what’s broken in it;
• a surface with elevated temperatures can damage the shield and cause dimming problems;
• The Chameleon mask is not used for plasma or gas welding.

How to serve

Regular maintenance will help protect the device from any breakdowns and dimming problems in particular. It is reasonable to carry out repairs no more than once a month. You can provide superficial care yourself: to do this, just wipe with a cotton cloth soaked in water.

Oily substances and abrasive materials are not suitable for cleaning the shield and may damage it. Cleaning should occur without much use of physical force.

• How to adjust a welding helmet

There are two types of adjustment. It is important to configure all the characteristics before work, which will increase the efficiency of use. Let's look at what types of adjustments the Chameleon mask has.

The shield should fit snugly to the head. There is a handle on the back of the head with which you can adjust the desired diameter. All these manipulations should be carried out with a shield on your head in order to more accurately feel the tension.

There is also a strap on the top of the head that can adjust the height of the Chameleon mask: higher or vice versa - lower. Be sure to check the fit of the shield before starting cooking.

Adjust the fit until you are sure the shield is securely attached to your head.

• What distance should be adjusted from the eyes to the filter?

During operation, it is possible to change the fixation of the Chameleon mask: move it away and bring it closer to the face by loosening the locking nuts. Make sure that the distance from the eyes does not differ. If the result suits you, tighten the fasteners.

• Adjusting the Darkness Level

Depending on what type of welding and what current strength is used, there is an option to choose how much to darken the mask. Even during the welding process, the level of darkness on the outside of the damper can be adjusted.

Sensitivity can be divided into high and low. It is possible to set the average sensitivity. But when TIG welding you need to use high sensitivity.

This is the most optimal setting and it is better if it is always set, and during the welding process it is adjusted and lowered until the cure is perceived only from the welding arc, despite the light source.

This is regulated according to a scheme characteristic of a certain type of welding, which is characterized by a certain level of sensitivity.

There is a knob on the inside of the cartridge that makes adjustments. For spot welding, a short delay is suitable, and for a long delay, welding with a high amperage is suitable. Proper adjustment will eliminate dimming problems.

Conclusion

Auto-dimming controls exposure to harmful radiation. There is a large selection of shields in this direction: Forte MC-1000, Centaur SM-152, Vitals Professional Thor 2500 LCD

Don’t forget to check the shield when purchasing so as not to purchase a faulty or defective one. Only in case of minor damage and dimming problems can you carry out repairs yourself.

Such breakdowns include replacing power supplies or protective glass. If the filter breaks down, you should contact a service center, where they will replace it efficiently and quickly.

Source: https://prosvarku.info/prisposobleniya-i-detali/svarochnaya-maska-hameleon-ne-zatemnyaetsya

Gas welder glasses. how to keep your eyes healthy? — Tool Master

To be able to make high-quality seams, the welder must clearly see the weld pool and skillfully control the processes occurring in it.

Since the light from hot metal is very bright, one of the basic safety rules when welding is to wear eye protection. They also include welder's goggles.

What they are, and what the best models include, is discussed below.

Using glasses

Since when working with an electric arc, ultraviolet waves, identical to the sun's rays, actively emanate from it, prolonged exposure of the skin to them leads to burns, blisters, and serious injuries.

To protect your face and eyes from the harmful radiation of electric welding, you must completely cover them with a welding helmet. Work without this accessory may cause corneal burns and loss of vision.

When welding with a transformer, inverter, or semi-automatic machine, it is strictly forbidden to wear glasses.

Gas welding does not emit UV waves, so there is no danger of damaging the cornea or burning the skin with just one hit of light. At the same time, there are other factors from which vision must be protected. Therefore, gas welding goggles are suitable here. They are lighter, more comfortable and cheaper than most masks. If you only have to work with a torch or cutter, you can save money and buy gas welder glasses.

What should we protect from?

Despite the absence of ultraviolet radiation, gas welding has its own harmful factors from which the organs of vision must be protected. Here are the main ones:

• Heat. The burner torch creates temperatures up to 3000 degrees. This is sufficient for welding or cutting most metals. During such work, a stream of hot air blows on the worker’s face. The mucous membrane dries out quickly and the eyes get tired. Quality control ability and productivity are reduced. Good glasses are heat-resistant and allow you to work throughout the day.
• Dust. When applying seams with an acetylene torch, a high temperature is achieved by supplying a stream of oxygen. The outlet pressure can reach 5-10 atmospheres. This raises fine dust into the air, which can get into the eyes and cause irritation, tears, or even injure the membrane. Glasses for gas welders have a sealed design, which differs from sunglasses. Working in them protects your eyes from dust swirling in the welding zone.
• Bright light. Hot metal has a very bright glow. The welder needs not just to look at the pool, but to control what is happening in it, and evaluate the quality of the convergence of the edges, the height of the applied bead of filler material, and prevent defects in the form of burns. You can make one seam without protective accessories, but everyday manipulation of the torch will quickly tire your eyes. For this purpose, light filters are selected, the darkening level of which is set based on the illumination of the workplace.
• Scale. The weld pool and the filler wire fed into it periodically “shoot” small sparks and slag particles. If you “drown” the burner torch too much into the metal, then pops and splashes also occur. Welding glasses must have glass that is thick enough to withstand the impact of a splinter. This is another argument against regular sunglasses that beginner welders mistakenly use.

Types of glasses

Now there are several models of gas welding glasses, where each specialist can choose the most suitable one for himself. The cheapest are protective accessories with a metal frame and cloth material around.

It is quite heat resistant, soft against the skin, and this design easily folds into a pocket. The glass has a double structure for direct and side views. Fastening is carried out on an adjustable elastic band.

To assess the quality of the seam, they will need to be removed from view.

A more expensive option would be a rigid frame with a folding frame. It has round light filters installed, and for a “clean” look you just need to lift them up without removing the main frame. The disadvantage of this version is less visibility and compactness. Storage of the accessory requires a case.

The most expensive representatives of protective equipment will be chameleon glasses. They are shaped like a diving mask. Only instead of ordinary glass there is a screen with liquid crystals. In an inactive state, they transmit light in a similar way to solar optics.

When a bright flash appears from the burner, the crystals turn perpendicularly and cover the entire surface of the glass. A light filter is formed. The disadvantage of the model is poor performance at temperatures of -10.

The crystals freeze and the device begins to work poorly.

Light filter in a chameleon: what is it and which is better

That small glass that is installed on the welding helmet is a real miracle of science and technology. It contains the latest achievements in optics, microelectronics, liquid crystals and solar energy. This is the “glass”. In fact, this is a whole multi-layered cake, which consists of the following elements:

liquid crystal cells (several layers - the more, the better);

Approximate composition of an automatic light filter in a chameleon welding mask (To increase the size of the picture, right-click on it)

The main and main advantage of a chameleon welding mask is that even if it did not have time to work, it will not let in ultraviolet and infrared radiation (if the mask was lowered). And the degree of protection from these harmful effects does not depend in any way on the settings. In any case and with any settings, you are protected from these types of harmful influences.

But this is only if the “pie” contains the appropriate filters and they are of the proper quality. Since it is impossible to check this without special devices, you have to rely on certificates. And masks must have them.

Moreover, on the territory of Russia only two centers can issue them: VNIIS and the Federal State Budgetary Institution at the All-Russian Research Institute of Labor Protection and Economics.

To be sure that the certificate is genuine, its number can be found on the official website of the Federal Service for Accreditation at this link.

This is a form on the Rossaccreditation website for checking the certificate. You can fill in only the number, leaving all other fields empty (To increase the size of the picture, right-click on it)

The certificate number is entered in the appropriate field and you receive the validity date, information about the applicant, and the manufacturer. A small note: the abbreviation RPE stands for “optical personal protective equipment.” This is what a welder's mask is called in bureaucratic language.

If such a certificate exists, the following message will appear. By clicking on the link you will see the text of the certificate (To enlarge the image size, right-click on it)

The most important thing is that you make sure that this product (by the way, compare both the name and model) is safe for your health.

Classification of automatic welding filters

Since the light filter and its quality are the key element in this product, you should start choosing a chameleon mask with it. All its indicators are classified according to the EN379 standard and must be displayed on its surface through a fraction.

One of the filters in the chameleon mask. Its classification is indicated in red

Now let’s take a closer look at what is hidden behind these numbers and what they should be. Each position can contain a number from 1, 2, 3. Accordingly, “1” is the best option - first class, “3” is the worst - third class. Now let’s talk about which position displays which characteristic and what it means.

Explanation of EN37 classification

Optical class

It reflects how clearly and without distortion the picture will be visible to you through the filter. Depends on the quality of the protective glass (film) used and the build quality. If "1" comes first, distortion will be minimal. If the values ​​are higher, you will see everything as if through a crooked glass.

Light scattering

Source: https://moy-instrument.ru/instrumenty/kak-otregulirovat-masku-svarshhika-hameleon.html

How to set up a chameleon mask for welding

"Chameleon" is a thing! Ask any welder who has switched to one from a regular mask. You no longer need to take it off every time to look at the work surface, and then put it on with a nod. You can both weld and clean the seam while wearing a mask - this is especially convenient for large amounts of work and welding in hard-to-reach places. Let's talk about this in more detail.

If we talk about the operation of the Chameleon welding helmet in a few words, then everything is simple: when the arc is ignited, the protective screen darkens, thereby protecting the user’s eyes; when the arc goes out, the viewing window becomes transparent again.

It is because of this ability to adapt to changing conditions that it received its name - by analogy with a chameleon changing its color. Welding helmets working on this principle appeared about 25 years ago and were very expensive back then - the process of producing light filters was just developing and was very expensive.

Today, progress has stepped far forward, and “chameleons” have become available to everyone: both professional welders and amateurs.

If you are thinking about buying a “Chameleon” mask for welding work, you probably have many questions. We will try to give as comprehensive answers to them as possible.

What is special about a protective filter?

The Chameleon mask does not have a regular light filter built in, but a liquid crystal filter. It consists of several layers of crystals and layers of vapor barrier film placed between them. When current is applied to the crystals, they become structurized—the light passing through them is blocked. The light filter is powered by a solar battery built into the mask body.

Additionally, many models include lithium batteries. Photosensors on the front side of the product react to the occurrence of an arc - the light filter darkens. When the arc goes out, it returns to a transparent state. The outer side of the glass is coated with a protective compound, which, even when the filter is turned off, prevents the passage of infrared and ultraviolet radiation.

This ensures the welder's eyes are protected at all times.

Is there a risk of “catching the bunny”?

As you know, the glow that appears when the arc is ignited reaches the welder’s eyes in less than a second. Therefore, to effectively protect the eyes, light filters with a response speed from 100 μs to 1/10,000 s are inserted into Chameleon masks. During this time, the screen has time to darken, and the glow from the arc does not blind the person.

By the way, for more effective protection, many models sensitivity . Depending on the lighting of the working area and light interference from heated metal, the degree of protection is adjusted.

You can also adjust the delay time for opening the light filter after the arc dies out, for example, so that the afterglow from the hot metal does not hit your eyes.

Such features of Chameleon welding helmets are important in the professional field; they help make work safer.

Is it convenient to sand and clean the seam in a mask?

The Chameleon light filter is designed to work in two modes: welding (the viewing window is darkened) and grinding (the window is transparent). To process a seam mechanically, there is no need to remove such a mask: the working surface is clearly visible through the glass.

At the same time, the mask provides additional eye protection from flying particles of metal and slag. By the way, to protect the filter itself, an outer glass is provided - this prevents the appearance of scratches and chips on the liquid crystal surface.

The glass is replaceable, so as it wears out and visibility deteriorates, it is replaced.

How do expensive filters differ from cheap ones?

As we said at the beginning of the article, Chameleon masks are now available to a wide range of buyers. This is evidenced by numerous reviews in online stores and discussions on forums. The price range for products is wide. For example, for work in a garage or in a country house there are models that cost about 1,500 – 2,000 rubles, for professional use – up to 3,000 – 4,000 rubles.

What is the difference between them? The quality of filters in budget models is an order of magnitude lower. Such elements are not able to provide adequate protection if the welder is looking at the arc at a large angle. The safe deviation can be up to 10, while for professional ones this value reaches 30.

Inexpensive filters react less well to arcing in dusty conditions, and the response time may increase at sub-zero temperatures. If you have to weld a couple of times a month in the garage, then the listed disadvantages will not be significant for you, but you can save a lot.

In the professional sphere, these aspects will be significant, since the master is exposed to the negative effects of welding every day. You shouldn't skimp on your health.

Want to increase your productivity and protect your eyes while welding? Don't waste time taking off and putting on a mask - spend it working! Buy a Chameleon mask and start cooking in a new way. At heights, above your head, in hard-to-reach places - with this equipment you will be comfortable! You can select and order the appropriate model in the appropriate section of our website.

Source: https://steelfactoryrus.com/kak-nastroit-masku-chameleon-dlya-svarki/