We all know that the function of auto-darkening welding helmets is protecting our eyes from the harmful rays generated in the welding process. However, there are many low-quality kinds of auto-darkening welding helmets, which not only wastes your money but also poses many risks for your health.
To avoid these troubles, find out how to test auto-darkening welding helmet both before purchasing them and after.
Table of Contents
How to test auto-darkening welding helmet
Generate an arc
First of all, I need to notify you that there will be a high chance of a welder’s flash happening.
Thus, unless you are sure that the device will work, don’t operate the welding machine. The lens must be dark enough so that the spark won’t hurting your eyes.
You will know whether it is okay when you feel the appropriate brightness of the arc as well as see your weld more clearly.
Also, you should pay attention to the change in the shaded volume of the screen whenever you start/stop welding.
Use an infrared light source
As you will need to block both ultraviolet and infrared rays, checking a mask by using common IR light sources such as a remote control or a laser pointer is a good idea.
Create IR light from one of your devices and look at the light via the goggles. During that process, the mask has to remain in the dark status. If it doesn’t, you may need to have a higher sensitivity level.
Turn the grind mode off
In some helmets, there is a special grind mode that allows you to deactivate the sensors. If possible, try to use this feature to examine the lenses.
Utilize a torch striker
Welders often use this device to generate the oxy-acetylene flame.
Let’s make some sparks and see how the sensors work. A good auto-darkening welding helmet will change to its dark state whenever it detects the strong light.
Apply a heat source
Your welding helmet should have a cooling function to avoid being damaged by the heat. Put the device near a source of the heat (fire, for example) for a while to test how hot it can tolerate.
Stare at an extreme light source
The idea is simple. Wear the mask and gaze at strong light sources such as the sun or a high-voltage bulb. You can know whether your auto-darkening welding helmet works well in front of the luminous welding spark.
Check the batteries
Open the hood to find the batteries inside if possible. Next, take them out and test their metal contacts (with steel or aluminium, for example) to find out whether these batteries have trouble with any kind of metal.
Additionally, a handy battery tester will let you know whether the battery is broken or not.
Regular check
To make sure that your helmet is still working well enough to protect your eyes, what you need is a monthly check on the device. And, here are what you need to concern.
Examine the batteries’ condition
To operate, your mask needs power.
If you have stopped using it for a long time, you may need to recharge it. If it is a solar-powered model, put it under the light for about twenty minutes. Then if it has a charging cable, plug it in.
Like any electronic tool, batteries also have a certain lifetime. Therefore, it is vital for you to replace them if necessary.
Broken parts
Make sure that the photosensors are clean and unbroken. Or else, they cannot detect the light and change the screen to dark mode.
Also, in case the auto-darkening filter does not work, you will need to buy a new one.
Final Words
Regardless of a helmet’s kind and brand, you always need to know how to test auto-darkening welding helmet before you use it.
Whether you have just bought a new helmet or possess a high-quality one already, bear in mind that a careful examination is never redundant.
Among the above ways, you had better apply the striker method as welding helmet vendors usually perform it in the shows to prove their products’ quality.
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