How to choose the right chameleon welding helmet

How to choose the right chameleon welding helmet - Metalworker's Guide

A welder who is exposed to harmful ultraviolet rays from the welding arc must take care of his health, and even more so of his vision. Standard shields are not capable of providing the level of protection that a chameleon helmet has.

A mistake when choosing a chameleon welding mask can lead not only to facial burns, but also to loss of vision.

Just because the filter is darkened does not mean you are no longer exposed to harmful rays. Therefore, the question of how to choose the right chameleon welding helmet can be answered by reviews from welders who have been using this type of protection for a long time. How to choose a chameleon welder mask for comfortable work?

Unlike a standard shield, the Welding Chameleon takes welder protection to a new level. The principle of operation of such a mask is the polarization of liquid crystals . During provocation, they change direction and interfere with the effects of ultraviolet radiation. Masks in the expensive price segment use multi-layer protection, this ensures the most uniform darkening. And an additional filter provides blocking of infrared radiation.

The helmet has built-in sensors that detect the arc and provide constant eye protection. The entire structure is enclosed in a block, which is protected on both sides with the help of plastic light filters.

You can carry out related work (with a grinder, a hammer) without removing the protective helmet from your head. Plastic filters require replacement over time, as they are consumables. The key point of the protective process is the speed at which the light filter operates.

The response time of professional models is 1 millisecond.

The protective properties of a chameleon directly depend on the ambient temperature. If the temperature is below minus 10 degrees, the operation of the filter slows down. Conscientious manufacturers indicate the maximum operating temperature in the product data sheet. Adjustments can be made during the workflow. The buttons are conveniently located and easy to operate with tactile contact.

It is important to know ! The mask must be stored in a heated room, otherwise its service life will be reduced.

Filter classification

The light filter is the main element of the chameleon helmet. The European standard EN 379 dictates the parameters of light filters according to the regulations, which denote qualities using a slash: 1/1/½. So, let's analyze in detail the meaning of each marking point.

1. The first value determines the optical class of the product. This means clarity and geometric accuracy of the transmitted image through the filter lens. The minimum marking value determines the high class of the product.
2. This indicates the transparency of the optical lens. The higher the value, the lower the quality of the optical lens.
3. Lens Shade Index is measured in DIN or SHADE and indicates the uniformity of the filter tint. The old markings look like C 4−7, the modern version is 4−9 DIN.
4. The ability to darken the lens at a certain viewing angle, the normal value is within 15˚.

Secrets of choosing a protective mask

The chameleon helmet can be equipped with filters, or it can be sold without them.

According to regulatory technical documentation, the material for manufacturing should not be a current conductor, be resistant to metal splashes, and also prevent radiation from penetrating inside, thereby ensuring safety for the welder. Most modern masks meet these requirements.

The body of domestically produced masks mainly consists of fiber or plastic. European and American samples have an original design, and can be made in the form of an animal's head. There is a version made of leather, used mainly in cramped conditions.

In addition to appearance, professionals advise how to choose a chameleon mask for welding according to certain parameters.

• Dimensions, weight and configuration of the mask.
• Adjusting the fastening straps to the size of your head.
• Possibility of installing dioptric lenses.

Adjusting the fastening of the mask on the head determines the comfort of using the product in the future. A comfortable viewing angle depends on the proximity of the filter to the welder’s eyes. If you decide to purchase diopter lenses, you need to get a filter with a wide viewing window, this will eliminate the need to lift the mask. Simply put, the weld can be viewed from above the lens.

Professional advice : Buy only those chameleon shields that have certification and a warranty period of service, do not buy fakes!

Criteria for choosing a chameleon mask

1. There are manufacturers who are not concerned about the safety of your vision. It is necessary to require a certificate that confirms the quality of the product.
2. Look for a sample with a replaceable power supply. Built-in batteries cannot be replaced.

   After the resource expires, you will have to buy a new chameleon helmet.

3. The quality of the mask determines the speed at which the filter operates.

   For short-term use, 100 microseconds is enough, but for a professional, the response time should be half that.

4. The mask is equipped with a large number of arc detection sensors, which eliminates spontaneous operation of the filter during the welding process.
5. The response speed of the protection and the return of the light filter to its original state occurs smoothly in a high-quality helmet.

   Stepping steps are a relic.

6. If, with the protection lowered, it is possible to work with an angle grinder or perform other related tasks, but at the same time be protected from ultraviolet radiation, then such a product is of high quality.

Pro tip : The light filter is designed to work with argon-arc welding; it can protect both from electric arc welding and from working with semi-automatic machines.

Popular models offered by the market

The leading countries in the production of masks and filters are Taiwan and China. But sometimes the quality of their products leaves much to be desired: the filters do not work correctly, which negatively affects the welder’s vision. The domestic manufacturer provides products of sufficient quality, but sometimes the filter does not work correctly when working with argon-arc welding.

The Korean brand OTOS, sometimes sold under the French brand GYSMATIC, has a weak point - the filter. There were cases of delamination, as well as the appearance of stains and microcracks.

The masks that Europe offers are higher in price, but their quality is consistently high. A filter of one sample may not fit another product. Next, there are several brands that produce high-quality masks that have the appropriate quality certificate:

• TECHMEN.
• OPTREL.
• OTOS.
• SPEEDGLAS.

Professional advice . If during welding work discomfort occurs in the form of burning, fatigue and tearing of the eyes, you should stop using such a mask. Most likely the product is of low quality.

Now you know all the secrets of the chameleon shield. Not only the health of the welder’s eyes, but also the quality of the current work depends on high-quality protection.

Source: https://ssk2121.com/kak-vybrat-svarochnuyu-masku-chameleon-pravilno/

Welding mask "chameleon" - the right choice

Welding is one of the most difficult and dangerous construction professions. When performing this type of work, it is imperative to follow safety regulations, as well as use various protective equipment. For a welder, the main safety attribute is represented by a welding mask, which protects the worker’s eyes and face from burns. Currently, outdated shields and conventional masks have been replaced by more advanced models, “chameleon” masks.

• Which semi-automatic welding machine is better to buy for a garage?

The components of the “chameleon” welder’s mask are:

• body, which can be made of plastic or fiber;
• light filter;
• adjusting fasteners;
• steam removal necessary to prevent condensation from appearing on the glass;
• filters in reserve.

In order to protect the organs of vision, there is an automatic light filter that reacts to the saturation of the glow, as well as its dynamics.

A high-quality filter is characterized by a multilayer structure, which consists of a polarizing film material. Liquid crystals are located between the film layers, due to which part of the radiation is blocked when the color saturation changes.

The filter design looks like this:

• one or triple layer of liquid crystal elements;
• film material coated with a mirror surface;
• film without a mirror coating;
• protective filter that prevents the influence of ultraviolet and infrared rays;
• sensors designed to detect an electric arc;
• batteries that provide autonomous work for 3000 hours.

Characteristics

The main advantage of the chameleon welding mask is the ability to adjust and automatically darken the filter. In addition, the convenient use of the helmet allows you to control the quality of the seams without removing it.

The name “chameleon” comes from the ability of light filters to independently change the color of the lens under certain conditions.

Design features:

1. The new generation welding helmet is equipped with a special regulator that performs a number of important functions:

• The lens filter can be changed automatically;
• fixing and adjusting the eclipse level indicator;
• filter switching interval;
• control and regulation of solar battery operation;
• adjusting the perception of the welding electric arc.

2. The chameleon lens is liquid crystal, and the cartridges are powered by solar or conventional batteries.

3. Sensors located near the lenses make it possible to control the welding electric arc.

4. When the mask screen is not activated, the liquid crystal filter, which performs the function of automatically darkening the lens, makes the work area visible and allows the electric arc to ignite.

5. After the electric arc is ignited, the sensors are activated, after which the darkening occurs in automatic mode. At the same time, the welder’s eyes are completely safe even in the autonomous mode of light filters.

Weight and dimensions:

1. High-quality models have a large window, which allows for improved visibility during operation. The high cost of such masks is compensated by the ability to control the connection of metal products.

2. Weight characteristics must be at a decent level. Models that are too light quickly break due to their low degree of strength. Masks whose weight exceeds 1 kg are impractical. The optimal solution is masks in the weight category of 400-700 grams.

Distinctive features of ordinary masks

Conventional welding helmets equipped with a fixed light filter became known about half a century ago. In those days they were made of natural thick leather. Over time, pressed plastic began to be used to produce welding protection products.

Conventional welding helmets also provide complete safety for the eyes and face when used for short periods of time. In addition, such models are not professional, having a number of significant disadvantages:

1. The light filter produces an ineffective degree of darkness, as a result of which the ability to block ultraviolet radiation that is formed during the welding process is reduced.
2. Minimal practicality and comfort of use.

The only advantage of conventional welding masks is the price, which is in the range of $3-4.

Features of chameleon glass + ()

As mentioned above, professional chameleon welding helmets are equipped with a light filter that operates in automatic mode, which independently adjusts to light saturation and brightness.

Filters are single-layer and multi-layer. Single-layer - suitable for amateurs who occasionally weld. Multilayer filters are an ideal option for specialists who ensure safe and comfortable work.

Types of protection

Products that provide protection against welding, produced in standard “chameleon” configurations, are available in the form of:

1. Mask

The type of mask product depends on the type of welding work performed. The ratio of welding glass to rated current values ​​is taken into account:

• glass 4-9 DIN - current up to 40 A;
• glass 5-11 DIN - current 175 A;
• glass 6-12 DIN - current 300 A;
• glass 7-13 DIN - current 500 A.

The first pair of groups of masks are relevant in everyday life. The last two groups are widely used in the construction of heavy machinery and aircraft, and heavy industries.

2. Shlemov

The relevance of the helmet is determined by more difficult working conditions caused by excessive temperature conditions or a long welding process. If there is a high risk of burns, a welding helmet is also used. The design of the product exactly imitates a motorcycle helmet, but lightweight and more durable plastic is used for manufacturing.

3. Points

Goggles are used when carrying out short-term welding work, when there is no need for additional face protection. Compared to masks and helmets, glasses are affordable. At the same time, they provide excellent visibility and are equipped with high-strength glass.

models + ()

On the modern construction market there is a wide variety of chameleon welding helmets from different manufacturers. Here are the most famous:

1. European. The high pricing policy of the products is justified by the guarantee of high quality.
2. Chinese and Taiwanese. Such masks are quite popular, despite their tendency to open spontaneously and be delayed in operation. The most famous company from China is TECMEN. Its products are distinguished by high quality parameters, confirmed by international certificates. The most popular model is represented by the professional product “ADF-820”.
3. Korean. The OTOS company produces masks equipped with a filter that can crack and become stained.
4. High reliability and safety is ensured by the manufacturer's model "Resanta", produced in the "MS-2" modification.

Features of selection + ()

Before purchasing a chameleon welding helmet, it is important to pay attention to:

1. Manufacturer and manufacturing methods . The documentation for the product indicates all the data about the purchased model, in particular, the warranty period. In the absence of such information, the quality of the mask may be poor.
2. Adjustment. Professional high-quality models are equipped with filter dimming settings in the range of 9-13 DIN. The protective degree against light radiation and the time period before the filter opens must be regulated. The adjustment details can be located on the filter or on the left side of the mask.
3. The type of welding for which the filter is intended. For example, for argon arc, it is suitable to use the product when welding manually using stick electrodes and in a semi-automatic mode when working with wire products.
4. Breadth of view. The wider it is, the better. In this case, it is necessary to take into account the increased fragility of wide glasses in comparison with smaller ones.

Source: http://instrument-blog.ru/svarka/kak-vybrat-masku-svarshhika.html

How to choose a welding helmet type

Each welder, approaching a certain stage of his activity, be it carrying out more complex work or increasing its quantity, comes to the question “how to choose a chameleon-type welding helmet.”

Often, primitive welding shields and traditional welding helmets do not cope with their main task, namely protecting vision and eye damage from exposure to ultraviolet, thermal, and infrared radiation.

It also protects the face of the person performing welding work from splashes that can be caused by molten metal.

For example, in standard face protection, in addition to the points listed above, you can find several more quite significant disadvantages.

With a protective shield, this is the inactivity of the second hand during the welding process, holding the welding shield with one hand, and in the second it is impossible to hold the welding torch and adjust the passage of the welding seam.

When working with a traditional welding helmet, although the advantage is ease of use, when the mask is raised when beating slag, there is a possibility of injury. When using a mask with a protective light filter, namely a chameleon type mask, all these inconveniences can be easily avoided.

Why is a chameleon-type welding helmet a more progressive and optimal type of protection?

Let's determine the main reason, namely that the main protective component of vision in this type of welding mask is an automatic light filter that responds to frequent changes in intense light. When the welding arc is ignited, an automatic light filter occurs within a hundred-thousandth of a second (approximately 0.00005 sec.

) is automatically dimmed, which allows you to control the start of the welding process without blinding your eyes. Note that high-quality light filters have a layered structure, where manufacturers often use 2-3 or more liquid crystal layers (LCD), which, when the welding process starts, are arranged in the desired order, which allows them to block part of the light.

In addition, this action, as much as possible from the incidence of light, reduces the dependence of the darkening of the corner.

Now, from most surveys and comments of professional welders, we will first determine the main indicators of a chameleon-type welding helmet, which are most often paid attention to when choosing a protective equipment, namely:

1. Filter response time. It is important that this indicator be less than 1 millisecond. Basically, most manufacturers do not ignore this characteristic and “chameleon” type masks meet this requirement. But it also happens that not everyone works stably. Most often this occurs due to low temperatures; this should be remembered when carrying out work in the cold season.
2. Adjustments, their number and types. Note that professional welding masks are produced with a fairly wide range of adjustments:
   • dimming adjustments (9-13 DIN is the most common, definitely according to the shade standard),
   • sensitivity adjustment (protection from light radiation, which depends on the temperature of the heated electrode or metal)
   • adjustment of the opening delay time at the end of the welding process.

   All these location adjustments can be external (most often located on the left side of the mask) and internal (located directly on the filter). The adjustments also differ in the smoothness of switching: stepped and smooth (with this type, the optimal degree of darkening is set).

3. The size of the visible area. Many welders believe that the larger the size of the visible area, the better, but at the same time, filters with this characteristic are more fragile.
4. Type and type of welding for which the filter is suitable. Filters are often designed for different types of welding, but if a filter is suitable for argon arc welding (tig welding), then it is excellent for working with stick electrodes (manual arc welding MMA) and semi-automatic/automatic welding (mig/mag).
5. External parameters of the welding helmet , head design, weight. Here, the welder must choose the ideal weight-to-structure ratio for comfortable work. After all, the efficiency and quality of work will depend on the convenience of the equipment.

What to pay attention to

Next, we will consider also important aspects and indicators of the “chameleon” welding helmet that you should pay attention to:

• Mask certification . Types of certification vary. For example, masks with the CE mark (one sample from a series is tested before sales); DIN - testing is carried out under working conditions on ten samples once every two years; DIN plus - 10 samples are tested under operating conditions once a year.
• Optical characteristics . Three numbers on the mask model, for example, 1/3/2. The first number will indicate the transparency coefficient, the second number will indicate the scattering of radiation, and the third will indicate the degree of uniformity of radiation darkening.
• The presence of a battery to turn the filter off and on. As a rule, this parameter does not affect the quality of the filter itself.

There are also a number of parameters for automatic welding filters that can be described from a technical point of view, and these parameters (characteristics) determine the class of the filter. We will look at these parameters in more detail in the next article.

The most common manufacturers of masks and filters:

1. Masks made in China and Taiwan. Quite low cost of products, most often do not correspond to the declared quality. They can open spontaneously, the light filter may work with a slight delay, etc.
2. Welding helmets chameleon of domestic production. More stable product quality, less functionality and ergonomics.
3. Korean masks and filters.

   Products are less resistant to external damage; with frequent temperature changes, cracks or dark blue spots may appear on the filters, which impair visibility during welding.

4. Professional chameleon masks for welders and light filters from European manufacturers - most often with non-interchangeable filters, a higher price, but with guaranteed quality.

   It is typical for masks to have three or more LCD layers.

A few tips to follow when choosing a chameleon welding helmet

• Pay more attention to the weight and dimensions of the welding helmet, as well as its head adjustments. In addition to adjusting the size of the headband, the angle of the mask and the depth of fit, you can also adjust the distance between the face and the light filter, this is an important plus.
• Select the optimal delay time for opening the filter at the end of welding (less than 1 millisecond). The delay is required for early opening at the end of the welding process, when there is no longer a welding arc, but the hot metal still shines quite brightly, and also in order to prevent the “blinking” of the light filter during short pauses.
• Check the mask documentation. It must indicate the level of certification of the filter, the optical class, the warranty period for the product and the country of manufacture. If the listed data is missing, then this is an indication that this mask and filter are made with unknown quality.
• Ratio of darkening degree to welding current:
  • glass C-4-9DIN-up to 40A;
  • glass C-5-11DIN - from 80 to 175A;
  • glass C-6-12DIN - from 175 to 300A;
  • glass C-7-13DIN - from 300 to 500A.
• When you purchase a chameleon welding helmet, ask about the availability of consumables and additional light filters for it.

  Sometimes, additional consumables are included with the welding helmet.

After you have read our recommendations, choose the optimal welding helmet parameters based on your budget and remember that it is easier to save your health than to restore it!

We present you real reviews from professional welders on frequently used chameleon-type masks:

Konstantin (welding experience - about 9 years).

“Mask Svarog “Chameleon” AS-2-F , conditions of use and parameters: sensitivity at the “maximum stated”, opening delay – “maximum stated”, darkening about 11, welding current 160 A, type of welding - manual arc, weather - bright sun.

It works correctly in any position relative to the sun; when directed directly at the sun, it does not close; in the “sun behind the back” position, despite the light inside the mask, nothing interfered.

Summary:

• I was pleased with the filter; the available visibility was completely enough for comfortable welding.
• The response to the welding arc is excellent.
• The bandage, weight and design are satisfactory, although at first there was a desire to purchase one made of rougher plastic.
• Considering the low cost and good filter, this is a great mask for the money!” (WITH)

Source: https://www.tiberis.ru/stati/kak-vybrat-svarochnuju-masku-tipa-hameleon

What are chameleon welding masks? How to choose the best one

Since the advent of welding, devices to protect a worker's eyes from harmful radiation have been limited to ordinary glasses with constant darkening.

They transmitted so little light (from one tenth to one thousandth of a percent!) that the welder could not observe the working field at all before the arc appeared.

Accordingly, when changing electrodes or cleaning a seam from scale, he had to raise the protective mask and lower it again. These operations slowed down work, and sometimes accidents occurred due to haste or inattention.

But all this became a thing of the past when chameleon welding masks appeared. How to choose the best one will be discussed below.

The operating principle of these masks is to use the polarization effect of liquid crystals in an electric field. By changing their position, the crystals inside the glass filter retain part of the visible and invisible (for example, ultraviolet and thermal) radiation flux. The dimming speed is measured in one to two milliseconds. This filter is controlled by reliable sensors.

All these possibilities have made chameleon welding masks extremely popular now. Many people don’t know how to choose them, what criteria to use. They also don’t know that these masks are not without their drawbacks. The main ones are the high cost and the inability to work at low temperatures (more than - 5ºС ).

Anatomy of a chameleon mask

The chameleon mask consists of five parts:

1. The body itself. Its material protects against drops of molten metal or slag, and its shape is designed so that the gases released during work move away from the worker’s face as quickly as possible.
2. Special head mount. It allows you to adjust the mask to suit a specific worker by tightening three screws. This is especially convenient if the work is carried out at different times of the year and it has to be removed frequently.
3. A light filter module attached to the body with an integrated battery compartment and solar panel. In addition, sensors are located here that ensure the operation of the protective filter.
4. Internal protective “glass” (usually hardboard).
5. External protective “glass” protects the filter from mechanical damage and is easily replaced with a new one in case of wear.

Secrets of choosing a mask

When choosing a mask, you need to check its compliance with the following requirements:

• The housing material is a dielectric, that is, it does not conduct current at all.
• It can protect the welder's face and neck from splashes of molten metal or slag.
• The configuration of the mask prevents light radiation from the welding site from entering the worker’s eyes.
• Possibility of quickly replacing the filter in case of its breakdown.
• Availability of the necessary set of certificates and quality control certificates.

• Modern materials used for most masks are fiber, heat-resistant plastic or split leather (for working in cramped conditions).

Light filter - selection criteria

Chameleon masks differ from simple ones in the complexity of the light filter design. With a simple glass filter, everything is simple - there are only two types:

1. for working with gas welding;
2. for working with electric arc welding.

The difference between them is the degree of darkening - the glass is darker for working with an arc.

But with automatic filters everything is much more complicated. When choosing a light filter, you need to focus on seven requirements:

1. Maximum dimming speed . The norm is 1.5-2 ms . For frequent professional use - less than 1 ms .
2. At least two sensors that detect the occurrence of an arc . The more sensors there are, the less likely there is to be a delay in darkening and, as a result, injury to the welder’s eyes.
3. Possibility of smooth adjustment of filter response . Step adjustment is obsolete.
4. The presence of a solar panel makes the mask more durable and mobile to use.
5. Possibility of changing the filter's power source , preferably not a battery, but an accumulator.
6. Possibility to work in a mask with an angle grinder . This provides an additional guarantee against injury and increases the speed and quality of seams.
7. The light filter itself, like the mask, must have quality and safety certificates that meet international and Russian requirements.

•  A light filter designed for argon-arc welding is also suitable for other types of welding work.

What does the market offer?

All welding helmets available on the tool market can be divided into three groups based on price-quality ratio:

• The cheapest, but with a very wide range of product quality fluctuations. Often they do not have certificates. These are mainly made in Taiwan or China.
• More expensive and quite high quality. They have proper Russian certificates. These are products from domestic manufacturers or South Korea.
• The most expensive and high-quality welding helmets are chameleon. As stated in the reviews of those who chose them - with a high degree of reliability. They have all the necessary documents. These are masks produced in European countries or under the direct control of European manufacturers (for example, TECHMEN or SPEEDGLAS).

In any case, no matter how expensive and outwardly reliable the mask may look, if during operation the eyes become irritated or a burning sensation appears, then this mask is not suitable for use. Her filter needs replacing.

How to choose a welding helmet

The attached video will answer this question about which chameleon welding helmets are optimal and how to choose the best one:

Source: https://prosto-instrumenty.ru/svarochnye-maski-xameleon-kak-vybrat/

How to choose the right chameleon welding helmet

No welding can take place without the use of a mask by the master. It protects the eyes from the harmful effects of the electric arc and allows the specialist to monitor the correct execution of the weld.

The modern market for special equipment can offer a wide range of welding masks, among which the chameleon welder mask occupies a special place. Such masks can solve many problems, including the problem of electrode ignition.

Before you start choosing uniforms for work, familiarize yourself with the main features of the chameleon mask.

Operating principle

The main component of the mask is an automatic light filter that responds to changes in external lighting. In normal visibility conditions, the glass of the welding mask allows you to see things without obscuring them. As soon as the electric arc is ignited, the light filter is activated and darkens the viewing slit to the state required for the operating mode.

The response time of the light filter is calculated in hundred thousandths of a second: the specialist perceives changes instantly. The advantage of such a mask is that you can start work without fear of being blinded by a suddenly flashing arc. The chameleon mask has the necessary certification and is manufactured according to GOST 12.4.023-84

Characteristic features of light filters in “chameleon” shield masks

The main parameter that you need to pay attention to when choosing a chameleon welding helmet is the light filter.

Thus, the high quality of light filters is ensured by a layered structure: it contains a layer of liquid crystals between the polarizing film. When the arc starts, they rearrange themselves, blocking some of the light.

As a rule, depending on their purpose, chameleons have two or three layers of crystals. The first standard layer is passive - its responsibilities include protecting the eyes from radiation. The remaining layers affect the darkening of the viewing window. This information must be taken into account, since the required degree of darkness is determined by the power of the arc.

Design features

Chameleon welding helmets have different characteristics, but they all comply with GOST standards. For example, some chameleons have filters with controls. In addition to automatic dimming, they have the ability to adjust the filter level. Additional functions that are carried out using regulators installed in various models of chameleon masks and shields:

• Automatic lens filter replacement
• Possibility to adjust and fix the dimming intensity
•  Monitoring the operation of the solar battery
• Ability to adjust exposure to light from the welding arc

The welding arc can be controlled using sensors located in close proximity to the lens. The sensor is triggered when the arc is ignited and the glass darkens. When at rest, the glass of the mask is light. An auto-darkening welding mask is also available.

The main feature of the chameleon welding helmet is the protective coating of the sight glass with a special coating. It protects the master’s eyes from negative radiation.

How to choose the right welding helmet

The choice of a chameleon welding helmet should be conscious. The right purchase will save not only your health, but also your budget - once purchased, a high-quality welding mask will last a long time. Before purchasing, be sure to pay attention to the following details:

Check the certificate of conformity: its absence should alert you, because most likely what you are looking at is a fake. The glass in a non-certified chameleon does not protect the eyes. When the arc is turned on, only the sight glass darkens: the first passive layer is missing.

1.  Make sure that the protective device is marked with the optical class of the filter 1/1/1 - this means that external objects are not distorted during operation. Markings with the number 3 are practically not used, however, if you come across such a mask, keep in mind that the protection against it is minimal. It is better to choose a device whose optical class will be confirmed in a certificate of conformity - this will eliminate deception on the part of sellers who sometimes alter official designations. As a rule, a remanufactured body of protective equipment can be easily distinguished from a new one by its characteristic worn spots.
2.  Decide on the size of the viewing window. Bigger does not mean better: the filter in large glasses is fragile. The price of such equipment is high.
3.  Do not believe the assurances of sellers who claim that the light filter works independently, without external charging devices. It is important to know that it operates on batteries and rechargeable batteries. The ideal option to purchase would be a device with the ability to replace chargers.
4.  The chameleon mask is not suitable for working at low temperatures. The maximum frost at which work will be problem-free is 5 degrees Celsius. Keep this in mind when deciding which mask to choose.
5.  Choose devices made of electrical cardboard (fiber) or plastic. These materials do not conduct current and are resistant to metal splashes and sparks. If you gravitate towards European brands, then pay attention to the fact that a mask from such a manufacturer can be made entirely of leather.
6.  Check the fastenings for strength. It is advisable to try on the mask directly in the store to evaluate the weight and fit. An uncomfortable welding mask will reduce productivity and create unpleasant physical sensations. Try to keep the dimming and opening delay adjustments external.
7. Check how many optical sensors the selected option has. It's better if there are four of them. In this case, the likelihood of spontaneous opening will be virtually eliminated.
8. The speed at which the filter operates should be 100 microseconds. You can see this information in the certificate of conformity.

the best chameleon masks in an affordable price category

Let's consider several options that are recognized as the best for working with an electric arc.

Fubag Optima 9-13 Visor

Fubag is one of the best in its price range. It has no disadvantages, apart from the unfortunate color design. However, this minus is not for everyone. Otherwise, the following advantages stand out:

• Light filter 95x55 mm with dimming adjustment in the range of 9-13 DIN - this is enough for most types of production work
• Dual power
• The case is 500 grams and made of durable, unbreakable plastic.

Despite the fact that the MC-400 is expensive for its market, its functional properties fully correspond to the price. Pros:

• Filter response time 60 µs
• Dual power supply from alkaline battery and photocell
• Weight – about 800 grams

There are also disadvantages:

• Three-stage sensitivity adjustment
• Small filter size (92x42 mm)
• Settings can only be made by removing the mask.

Resanta MS-4 65/34

The Resanta mask is simple and is most often copied not only in Russian production, but also in Chinese production. The original sample has the following advantages:

• Weight does not exceed half a kilogram
• Price

Of the minuses it is worth noting:

• Lack of adjustment
• High sensitivity to low temperatures
•  The battery is built-in and cannot be replaced.

BestWeld Chameleon

The mask is made of durable polyamide material and has a successful design: the hinged mount distributes the weight without overhanging.
The chameleon has light sensitivity and darkness controls. Like other masks, it has its pros and cons. Let's look at them:

Pros:

• Wide field of view
• Regulators are easily accessible

Minuses:

• Single power supply from photocells.

Types of protective equipment

There are several chameleon type devices that can be used for welding work. Let's look at them:

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Welding shield

The main function is to protect the eyes from all types of radiation. The shield must be held against the face, which makes it not the best option when working.

Mask

It is put on the head using fastening devices: the ability to choose the length of the head circumference, the seating depth, and the inclined angle. The distance between the eyes and the filter is also adjustable. Performs the same function as the shield.

Helmet mask

Such equipment is similar in structure to a gas mask. Its use is justified for industrial purposes, since the helmet-mask is suitable for specific work. These types of work include underwater welding, welding in difficult to navigate places and in conditions of insufficient ventilation.

To meet the demands of the latter type of industrial work, an air-assisted welding helmet is used.

There are also welding helmets with forced air supply, which notifies the specialist that the air level has decreased relative to the standard mark set by the manufacturer.

When choosing a welding helmet, consider all the nuances and rules. After all, it was created in order to protect your health from negative production factors. Not a single flash will be in vain for the retina of the eyes, and will certainly respond with pain and stinging in the eyes a few hours after welding work. Among other things, a comfortable mask will provide the best shade, making it easy to control the welding seam.

Source: https://steelfactoryrus.com/kak-vybrat-svarochnuyu-masku-chameleon-pravilno/

How to choose a chameleon mask for welding correctly

How to choose a chameleon mask for welding

A welder's mask protects the eyes and facial skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays. The term “electro-ophthalmia” is known to every welder. An eye burn from welding does not lead to anything good, only to loss of vision.

Therefore, if you decide to seriously engage in electric welding, you should know which eye protection is best to choose. Today, when we are in the age of automation, chameleon welding helmets are in fashion. What it is and how to choose an automatic welding helmet will be discussed in this article from the construction magazine samastroyka.ru.

Types of welding helmets

Before diving headlong into the technical characteristics of chameleon masks, you need to consider what types of welder masks there are:

Welding shield - perhaps the most antediluvian protection for the eyes of a welder, this is a welding shield. This type of protection has a passive light filter; it is inserted into a piece of plastic or hard cardboard, which can be used to cover the eyes and skin of the face when welding.

The advantages of welding shields are that they are cheap, but they have many more disadvantages. The most significant of all is a passive light filter, through which you can see only at the moment when the welding arc is already burning.

Therefore, at the moment the electrode is ignited and the metal is tacked, you can quickly pick up “bunnies”, and then spend the whole night remembering “what holds the light up.”

A welding helmet is a more advanced version of a welding shield, but only with the ability to be mounted on the head. A regular welding helmet is also equipped with a passive light filter, therefore, it does not create any special convenience in welding. Just as in the case of a welding shield, you always have to be distracted by igniting the electrode, whether you “grabbed” the metal in the right place, especially if you are a beginner in welding.

What is a chameleon welding helmet

The third type of welding helmet is the chameleon mask. This is a welding helmet with an auto-darkening function at the moment the arc is ignited.

The automatic welding helmet has a number of special advantages over other welding helmets:

• The eyes and skin of the welder’s face are reliably protected from the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays;
• There is no need to be distracted all the time by extraneous processes. When the welding arc is not burning, the light filter of the chameleon mask is almost transparent, and everything is clearly visible through it. However, at the moment when the electrode begins to ignite, the light filter automatically changes its throughput and darkens, thereby protecting the welder’s eyes from harmful “bunnies”.

Automatic chameleon masks, in addition to the auto-darkening function, can be equipped with other additional functions. For example, the mask can “remember” the time of welding work, have a smooth adjustment of the light filter, as well as some other features. Let's take a closer look at what exactly you need to look for when choosing an automatic welding mask.

Each chameleon mask, expensive or cheap, no matter, has a number of basic functions that determine its qualities and capabilities:

The speed of operation of the light filter (time) is perhaps the most important characteristic of chameleon masks, because the level of protection for the welder’s eyes depends on how quickly the light filter operates. There is a maximum allowable response time for the filter, which is one millisecond. However, there are masks with much shorter filter response times. It goes without saying that the higher the filter's darkening speed, the better.

The degree of darkening is another of the most important characteristics of chameleon masks, or more precisely, the automatic light filter with which they are equipped. Most automatic filters have an extended range, from 9 to 13 DIN, which is optimal for most cases. However, the wider the darkening range of the filter, the more functional the automatic chameleon mask will be, and there will be an additional possibility of using it for various types of welding.

Below are the recommended filter range values ​​for different types of welding:

Optical class - this characteristic of chameleon masks indicates the optical properties of the filter. As a rule, the optical class of a light filter is indicated by three numbers, for example, 1/2/3 - where:

• 1 — filter transparency coefficient;
• 2 - light scattering;
• 3 - degree of darkening uniformity.

The lower the values ​​indicated in the optical characteristics of the filter, the higher the quality and reliability of the chameleon mask.

Source: https://samastroyka.ru/kak-vybrat-masku-chameleon.html

Tips for choosing a welding helmet Chameleon

[How to choose a Chameleon welding helmet] to minimize the harmful effects of the work process on vision.

The risk of injury during welding is too high.

Here we are talking not only about the impact of harmful radiation on vision, but also about possible poisoning from evaporating gases.

And also about burns that can be obtained from intense thermal radiation and flying scales of molten iron.

This issue is especially relevant for specialists who have to perform welding work five days a week.

Regardless of where the welding process is carried out - on the street or in a building, the presence of a welding helmet is a prerequisite.

Protection from the negative effects of artificial light by using a mask makes it possible not only to maintain health, but also to perform welding work efficiently.

The main characteristics that must be followed when choosing a welding helmet are properly tinted glass and GOST safety standards.

The product must correspond to them. But it will be difficult for an inexperienced person to make a choice and buy a mask if he is unfamiliar with these indicators.

In addition, the market currently offers a wide selection of classic and professional welding helmets from different manufacturers.

But not each of the proposed models is capable of providing adequate protection and safety.

At the same time, the price of helmets will not be an indicator of their quality; it may turn out that a cheap model is much more effective than an expensive one.

Since later in the article we will talk about how to choose a Chameleon welding helmet and do it correctly, first you just need to briefly get acquainted with the characteristics of classic welding helmets, which will allow you to better understand what advantages it brings and how different the modern model is from them.

Characteristics of a classic welding helmet

The traditional welding helmet with a fixed filter was born about 50 years ago.

Initially, natural thick leather was taken as the basis for their production; later, welding helmets began to be produced from compressed plastic.

Such masks can fully ensure the safety of vision and facial skin, subject to short-term welding work.

It should be noted here that classic welding helmets cannot be classified as professional; they have many disadvantages.

The most basic one is the light filter, which is endowed with an ineffective degree of darkness, which reduces its ability to suppress ultraviolet rays generated during welding.

The remaining disadvantages of classic models relate to the minimal convenience and comfort of their use.

There is only one advantage in this case: the price, which currently amounts to $3-4.

IMPORTANT TO KNOW: Use and manufacture of a plasma welding machine

But since health is more important, no matter what the minimum price, it is better to choose and buy a quality product from a time-tested manufacturer.

Design features of Chameleon welding helmets

The main advantage why a professional welder should choose the Chameleon welding helmet is the regulation and automatic dimming of the light filters.

In addition to this, it is convenient to use a helmet, which does not need to be removed to check the quality of the seam.

The Chameleon mask got its name due to the ability of light filters to independently change the color of the lens under certain conditions.

This suggests that tinted glass is much more effective than the standard tinted lenses found on conventional helmet models.

During production, the Chameleon welding helmet is equipped with a special regulator, which is responsible for the following functions:

• The lens filter can be changed automatically;
• fixation and regulation of the eclipse level indicator;
• filter switching interval;
• control and regulation of solar battery operation;
• regulation of the perception of the welding electric arc.

The Chameleon welding mask has a liquid crystal lens, while the power to the cartridges comes from a solar and conventional battery.

The presence of sensors that are placed near the lens makes it possible to control the welding electric arc.

When the welding helmet screen is not activated, the LCD filter, which automatically darkens the lens, allows you to see the work area and easily ignite the electric welding arc.

In this case, the effect of vision is formed, as through ordinary sunglasses.

After the electric arc is ignited, the sensors are put into operation, then in automatic mode, before a person has time to blink his eyes, an eclipse occurs.

At the same time, due to the presence of filters and a special coating layer against harmful radiation, the welder’s eyes are completely safe, even when the filters are inactive.

What to consider when choosing a Chameleon welding helmet

To choose and buy the optimal version of the Chameleon welding helmet, you need to proceed from the planned type of work.

Almost all welding work comes down to the same operating principle, for example, it can be welding steel sheets of different or the same thickness.

The Chameleon mask, as mentioned above, has a fixation function and control of the darkening level of the lens. Using these capabilities allows you to qualitatively weld metal of different types and with different parameters.

The inside of the mask, in the area where the lens is located, has a regulator that changes the darkening level.

You can also choose a Chameleon welding helmet based on the parameters of the filter switching time; it is this function that the manufacturer focused on when developing products.

It is better to choose a model that is capable of providing the workflow with the maximum switching speed, since igniting the electric arc while slowly changing the light filters will each time negatively affect vision.

IMPORTANT TO KNOW: Selecting a semi-automatic welding machine

The problem of how to choose a mask for welding work that could provide protection and comfortable working conditions is most often solved by the price of the product.

According to experts, for whom welding work is their main income, it is better to overpay once than to pay for the rest of your life with your health.
When choosing a Chameleon welding mask, it is also recommended to pay attention to the charging time of the power source.

This is another important technical property of the product. Some models of welding helmets are available with a built-in battery, and they can be charged from additional solar panels.

You should not opt ​​for these products, even if their price is more reasonable than others, since the lack of sun rays will cause the battery to quickly run out.

Therefore, it is recommended to choose a welding helmet that comes with a standard type battery.

Now let's talk about the same thing, but only with numbers and letters, or markings, which will be very useful when choosing. Let's start with light filters.

Features of light filters of the Chameleon welding helmet

The European market has its own standards for welding equipment. In particular, the filters sold must comply with EN 379 standards, which describe their main parameters.

As a result, having picked up a welding helmet, a person will already know that it is in it that he will be comfortable working.

This confidence can be explained by the presence of markings, while the indicators are written through a slash, such as 1/1/1/2, and indicate: optical class, level of light scattering, homogeneity of the darkening layer, angular dependence of the eclipse level.

Characteristics of these parameters:

1. Optics of welding lenses. The characteristics of the optical class will tell you about the level at which they can accurately and truthfully convey the object being processed. In this case, it is necessary to choose a model with a minimum digital value, which indicates the minimum percentage of distortion;

2. Light scattering index. The following number will tell the buyer about the degree of transparency of the lens of the Chameleon welding helmet. It is especially recommended to pay attention to this parameter if you need to choose a welding helmet for welding small elements. Here, as in the previous class, the lower the digital value, the better the quality of vision;

3. Homogeneity. The third number of the marking corresponds to the quality of darkening of the lenses of the Chameleon mask for welding. The darkening layer should be evenly applied over their surface, excluding the presence of light areas in the corners. The minimum figure is the best result;

4. Viewing angle. Using this parameter, you can find out about the darkening level of the filter at the viewing angle. The normative document EN 379 indicates that the symbols for high class are 1 DIN, low class is 2 DIN.

By studying the above values, you can easily select the suitable Chameleon Welding Helmet.

IMPORTANT TO KNOW: Tips for choosing a semi-automatic welding machine

Features of dimming level indicators

You can choose a high-quality Chameleon welding helmet, taking into account the degree of darkness of its screen, the quality of which is judged using the DIN scale. This scale is the required standard that allows you to normalize the level of darkness.

At the moment, common scale indicators range from 5 to 15 DIN. The lower the number, the lighter the light filter.

So, for welding by using different gas mixtures, including argon gas or argon arc welding, you need to choose a mask with a scale from 14 to 15.

At the same time, most models of Chameleon welding helmets allow you to select the desired scale using a regulator marked with Shade or DIN symbols.

Manufacturers in European countries provide this opportunity. For example, the Jackson company - its models are in high demand on the market; the price of masks can be $365.

The Chameleon welding mask from Optrel is equipped with a two-zone dimming feature - turning on this function allows you to have 3 levels of dimming. 4 DIN is a standard darkness indicator at which you can freely work with details.

Then, when the arc is ignited, 13 DIN comes into play.

After completion of the welding process, the intermediate action 6-8 DIN is activated - this mode is necessary when the workpiece is still hot and can adversely affect vision.

The price of masks from the Swiss company Optrel can range from $180 to $300. In this case, the price will depend on the functional parameters of the models.

But no matter how high the darkness class the Chameleon welding mask has, if the radiation source is placed in an area that is inconvenient for the light filter, the light filter may come into effect with a delay or not work at all.

Manufacturers, trying to eliminate the occurrence of this problem, use various measures.

For example, the Swedish company 3M, a manufacturer of professional welding masks produced under the Speedglas brand, solved this issue by covering one filter with another.

As a result, radiation passing through a layer of different filters is refracted differently at each filter and necessarily reaches the sensor. The price of similar models of welding helmets can be $250.

The external parameters of the welding helmet are also not the last thing you need to pay attention to when choosing.

The smooth curves of the product and the ability to adjust the comfortable fit of the mask are the key to comfortable work.

At the end of the material, we suggest watching the thematic video in our article.

Source: https://rezhemmetall.ru/kak-vybrat-svarochnuyu-masku-xameleon.html

How to choose a welding mask

Every beginner and professional welder knows that when welding you simply cannot do without a protective welding mask.

In this article we will look at:

— What types of eye protection are there?

— What is a Chameleon mask and how does it work?

— How to choose a welding mask

— How to care for a welder’s mask

Fig.3 - Masks OPTIMA TEAM 9-13 Silver, ULTIMA 5-13 Panoramic Silver and FUBAG OPTIMA 9-13

Working with a welding machine, not without reason, is considered one of the most dangerous, so the welder must be reliably protected from all unfavorable factors. No part of the body can remain open. For this, special suits, shoes, gloves, respirators, headphones and, of course, welder masks are used.

What does a welder's mask protect against:

· from splashes of molten metal, scale;

· ultraviolet and infrared radiation;

· from smoke, dust, gases;

· from high temperature.

What kind of eye protection is there when welding?

First, let's look at what types of protection exist today.

1. The simplest thing is Safety glasses.

Fig.4 - Safety glasses

If you are removing rust or cleaning welds, glasses will do just fine. But there is definitely no need to talk about protection from burns, and even more so from radiation. Safety glasses can filter out some of the harmful rays. They are suitable exclusively for gas and plasma cutting.

2. Welding shield - the simplest, but still protection. It is already suitable for arc welding. The face is already protected. The light filter of the shield will protect your vision from powerful radiation. You will see the work area during ignition and welding. The downside of the shield is that you need to hold it with your hand.

    Fig. 5 - Welding shield

3. Welder mask with a permanently darkened light filter.

This is the same shield, but with a fastening - your hands are already free and a large surface of the head is protected from splashes. The main disadvantage of such a mask is the passive filter - it does not allow you to control the working area at the moment of ignition of the arc.

The biggest problem with a passive filter is the lack of visual control of the working area at the moment of arc ignition.

The most effective type of eye protection is the Chameleon welding mask . This is a mask with an active light filter. Their main advantage is the adjustment and auto-dimming of the light filter. Hence the name – Chameleon.

The principle of operation of the Chameleon Fubag welding helmet is as follows: as soon as the welding arc lights up, the liquid crystal filter automatically darkens in milliseconds. In its normal state, it is transparent and the welder can see everything through it.

At the same time, the filter protects against UV and IR radiation even without dimming.

Rice. 6 — Welding helmet FUBAG ULTIMA 5-13 PANORAMIC

The Chameleon welder's mask is made of impact-resistant polymer. It resists severe mechanical stress, as well as melt splashes and constant heating.

HOW TO CHOOSE A CHAMELEON MASK?

Still don't know which welding mask to choose from the many chameleon masks? We will help you figure out the right selection for your benefit.

How do they differ from each other and what is really worth paying money for?

Important parameters for choosing a welding helmet:

— DIMMING RANGE

It is selected depending on the type of welding you plan to work with. So, for the most common MMA welding, all Chameleon protective masks are suitable. Even for a professional welder working with manual arc welding, a mask in the range of 9-13 DIN is quite sufficient.

If you also plan to weld semi-automatically or with TIG argon arc welding, then it is best to choose a filter that can operate in the darkening range of 5–9DIN.

It is very convenient if the darkening degree can be adjusted manually, depending on the process.

The most convenient are welder masks that have two shade ranges: from 4 to 8 DIN when working with argon or when manual arc welding in poor lighting.

Rice. 7 – Welding helmet parameters

Also, an older person may need less darkening. To work with inverters at high currents and in good lighting, a shading of up to 13 DIN is required. So it's better, the mask combines two modes: 5-8DIN/8-13DIN.

Notice how transparent the filter is in its original, fully clarified state. The lighter it is, the better the visibility before welding begins.

During operation, you will learn to select a degree of darkness that is comfortable for you.

When choosing a welding helmet, you can use the following table as a guide:

Welding process / CURRENT	5	20	40	60	80	100	120	140	160	180	200
MMA	8	8	8	9	9	10	10	10	11	11	11
MIG-MAG	8	8	8	9	9	10	10	10	11	11	11
TIG	5	8	9	9	10	10	11	11	11	11	12
SHOVING
PLASMA CUTTING	9	9	9	9	9	9	10	11	11	12	12

The degree of darkening is indicated in the mask passport. With FUBAG welding helmets, you can already understand from the name what degree of darkness this model has.

For example, Fubag OPTIMA 9-13 with an adjustable shade level of 9-13 din is suitable for MMA and MIG/MAG welding. And if you are also planning argon arc welding, then the ULTIMA 5-13 VISOR is an excellent choice.

— DARKEN — LIGHTEN SPEED

The second important characteristic is the switching speed parameter of the Chameleon filter for a welding helmet.

Choose a model that has the highest switching speed: if the filter switches slowly during a welding arc flash, it will affect the eyes and vision.

This parameter is very important if your eyes hurt after welding and you don’t know what to do about it. In this case, you need to buy a “Chameleon” welding mask with the fastest darkening speed.

The antipode of this indicator is the speed of filter clarification. Here it’s the other way around - it’s better for your eyes if the filter does not return to its original transparent state immediately after the arc dies out, since the weld pool still glows for some time. Good masks allow you to set the delay necessary for comfortable work.

The sensitivity adjustment is usually located inside the mask, on the filter. With its help, you can set what the filter will work on - only on the arc, or also on bright light sources. If you work indoors, then it is better to set the sensitivity to high. Then the filter will darken only when an arc occurs.

But on the street, with high sensitivity, it can also trigger the glare of the sun, and here it is better to reduce the sensitivity. The adjustment can be smooth or stepwise, but smooth adjustment is better. If the filter darkens/lightens intermittently, then you will quickly get tired. He may also begin to blink due to glare.

TIG welding requires maximum sensitivity.

Rice. 8 – Sensitivity adjustment

— GRINDING MODE

Some mask models also have a special “grinding” function. In this mode, the sensitivity is set to a minimum and the sensors do not react to sparks - you can safely clean the seams even with an angle grinder without removing the mask.

— NUMBER OF SENSORS

An important indicator for the “Chameleon” welding helmet is the number of sensors (elements due to which the sensitivity sensors are triggered).

Typically, models with 2 sensors are sufficient. But if you work in conditions where fences, various objects or structures can block the glow of the arc, then the filter may automatically open and clarification will occur. For such work, models with 4 sensors are better suited.

- SUPPLY SYSTEM

Pay attention to the filter's power supply system. It runs on built-in solar panels. And you can additionally insure yourself with built-in replaceable elements - lithium coin batteries. This option is more reliable.

— MASK ERGONOMICS

When choosing a mask, it is very important to evaluate its weight, the convenience and reliability of fixation on the head, the ability to adjust the coverage, and how the visor is secured in the raised position. Masks can weigh from 0.5 to 2 kg.

For infrequent use, this parameter is not very critical, but in any case, working with a two-kilogram weight is not very comfortable. Especially when there is a choice in favor of an easy option.

As for the fit, pay attention to how much the mask covers your head and whether the coverage can be adjusted. Ideally, the headband is made of soft material.

Rice. 9 – Soft fixation of the headband with soft material

- SCREEN SIZE

Pay attention to the screen size. They can be of different sizes. The large visibility area makes it possible to get good contact with the working area and easily control the welding process.

— ADJUSTMENT KNOBS

It is also important to know where the filter adjustment lives. If the handles are located on the filter itself, then adjustments can only be made by removing the mask. At the same time, all switches are well protected from mechanical damage. If you want to control the light filter directly during operation, then you can choose a model where the handles are located on the outside.

— COLOR AND DESIGN

Well, of course, the market now offers a huge variety of color solutions for welding helmets, and here it’s a matter of taste – whether you choose strict classics or 3D graphics.

       Rice. -10 Welding mask FUBAG ULTIMA 11 and welding mask FUBAG OPTIMA 4-13 Visor Red

HOW TO CARE FOR A WELDING MASK

A couple of useful tips on caring for a welder's mask will not harm you.

• The main thing is that the filter must be protected because it scratches easily. Wipe it with a clean and soft cloth. If necessary, you can moisten the cloth with water. Do not wipe the filter with alcohol or solvents - it is covered with a special film that will dissolve in this liquid.

• When purchasing a mask, immediately buy additional protective glasses - this is a consumable item that will always be needed.

At Fubag, along with the welding helmet in the box, you will always find a set of spare glasses for the mask.

✔ There is one more feature of any chameleon filters: at low temperatures it can slow down and can work with a delay for both darkening and brightening. This moment is not very pleasant, so in winter you won’t be able to cook outside normally, even if the manufacturer specifies an operating temperature of -10 degrees.

If you still don’t know or find it difficult which “Chameleon” welding helmet to choose, you can contact the Fubag online store and our manager will help you buy a “Chameleon” professional welding helmet.

Tell your friends

Source: https://store.fubag.ru/tips/kak-vybrat-masku-svarshchika-khameleon/

How to choose the right Chameleon welding helmet and what to look for

Welding work always involves increased eye strain. That is why a welder’s mandatory equipment set, in addition to working clothes, must include a special protective mask. Traditionally, tinted glass has been used as a filter, but it is extremely inconvenient. New welding helmets of the “Chameleon” type are much more practical and functional. But how to choose the right model?

A little about the design

The main element of the mask is a light filter made of a liquid crystal matrix. The principle of operation is to change the degree of light transmission at different voltage values.

Chameleon mask and filter circuit

In addition, the design has an initial filter element that protects against ultraviolet radiation invisible to the eye. The use of this technology has opened up new operational possibilities for welding helmets.

• Possibility of automatic darkening of the filter depending on the light intensity of the welding arc.
• Manual control of functions - response delay time, setting the degree of shading.
• Located sensors automatically activate the matrix when the intensity of light radiation increases.

At first glance, the chameleon welding mask is the best choice. However, in addition to a high-quality light filter, there are several factors that directly affect the ease of use.

It should be noted that the chameleon mask differs from the traditional one not only in performance, but also in price. Even the cheapest Chinese model will cost at least 2,500 rubles. Therefore, the choice must be approached with maximum responsibility. Let's consider the main parameters.

Shade level

This parameter specifies the minimum and maximum filter darkening values. In professional models, when inactive, the overview panel remains completely transparent. During welding, voltage is applied to the liquid crystal grid and it darkens. But you need to take into account that when the mask is disconnected from the power supply, the degree of filtration will be maximum.

Selection table by degree of darkness

There is a classification of this characteristic, which is expressed in standard DIN or C indicators. For welding work with an average level of arc radiation intensity, you can use models with a maximum DIN 13. But it is best to first calculate the optimal value for specific work.

Switching speed

The time of exposure to light radiation on the eyes depends on this. It is knitted with a degree of darkness. The larger the range, the slower the switching from one filtering mode to another will be.

For example:

• From DIN4 to DIN13 – 400 ms.
• From DIN4 to DIN9 – 200 ms.

Manufacturers indicate this characteristic as 1/X, where X is the on-time. For home use, you can choose models with a parameter of 1/10000 sec (100 µs). For continuous operation, the turn-on time should be at least two times less - 1/20000 sec (50 µs).

Classification of filters

It is defined by EN379 standards and consists of four parameters: optical class, light scattering, homogeneity and angular darkness. Each of them can have a value from 1 to 3. The accepted notation is as follows - 1/1/1/3.

• Optical class. Determines the clarity of the image through the filter. Ideally, there should be no distortion of the object. There must be clear focusing.
• Light scattering. As light passes through the liquid crystal grating, its direction may change.

  If this happens, the welder observes the object as slightly darkened. For class 1 devices, light scattering occurs without distortion.

• Homogeneity. Possible uneven darkening of the filter surface. Slight deviation from the norm in the corners is allowed.
• Angular degree of darkness.

  Characterizes the change in darkening depending on the angle of incidence of light on the filter.

Light filter

Location of the control panel and number of light sensors

The best work comfort will be provided by masks with the control unit located on the outside. It is usually located on the side. However, this is not always possible to do. Therefore, there are types in which the adjustment blocks are located on the inside.

The activation of the filter depends on the number of sensors. Usually they are installed on the front panel in the amount of 2 pieces. But when side welding, the arc does not always fall within their range of action. In this case, it is recommended to purchase masks with additional side sensors.

Manufacturers and cost

The German company OPTIMA FUBAG specializes in the production of welding equipment. Their product range includes chameleon masks. The main difference is the impact-resistant plastic from which the mask body is made. Buyers in reviews note the reliability of the filter. You can buy the OPTIMA FUBAG mask here.

If you need a more affordable model, you can choose one of the Russian-made Caliber masks. In addition to the affordable price, one can note the large size of the filter cartridge (110*90 mm) and its fairly fast operation. You can buy a Caliber mask here.

In addition to these brands, we can note the products of the following companies - Resanta (Russia), Vita (China).

Model	DIN, minimum/maximum	price, rub.
DECA WM 28 LCD	4/9 (13)	3 240
Forte MC-9000	4/9 (13)	2 264
Resanta MS-3	4/9 (13)	1 740
Vita WH 7401	4/9 (13)	1 490

Possible degrees of adjustment

Before purchasing the selected model, it is recommended to try it on. In this case, you should pay attention to the degree of size adjustment, weight and viewing angle. It is often more profitable to buy a chameleon mask that is a little more expensive, but with better characteristics.

Source: https://ismith.ru/welding-equip/kak-vybrat-svarochnuyu-masku-xameleon/