How To Test Your Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet

Auto-darkening welding helmets are a valuable tool for welders as they offer increased safety and comfort during welding tasks. However, it is important to test your helmet regularly to ensure that it is functioning properly and providing adequate protection. In this article, we will discuss the steps to test your auto-darkening welding helmet.

Step 1: Check The Auto-Darkening Lens

The auto-darkening lens is a critical component of your welding helmet as it protects your eyes from harmful UV and IR radiation emitted during welding. To test the lens, you need to follow these steps:

• Hold the helmet at arm's length and look through the lens.
• Turn on the welding machine and strike an arc on a piece of scrap metal.
• Observe the lens and check whether it darkens immediately and to the appropriate shade for the welding task at hand.
• If the lens does not darken, or if it darkens slowly or to an inappropriate shade, then the lens may need to be replaced.

Step 2: Check The Headgear

The headgear is the part of the welding helmet that secures it to your head. To test the headgear, you need to follow these steps:

• Put on the helmet and adjust the headgear so that it fits securely and comfortably on your head.
• Move your head in different directions to test whether the helmet stays securely in place.
• If the helmet moves or feels loose, adjust the headgear until it fits securely.

Step 3: Check The Battery

The battery is the power source for the auto-darkening lens. To test the battery, you need to follow these steps:

• Refer to the manufacturer's instructions to locate the battery in your helmet.
• Remove the battery and use a multimeter to test its voltage.
• If the battery voltage is low, replace the battery with a new one.

Step 4: Check The Sensitivity And Delay Settings

The sensitivity and delay settings on your welding helmet determine how quickly the lens darkens and how long it remains dark after welding. To test these settings, you need to follow these steps:

• Refer to the manufacturer's instructions to locate the sensitivity and delay controls on your helmet.
• Adjust the sensitivity and delay settings to the appropriate levels for the welding task at hand.
• Turn on the welding machine and strike an arc on a piece of scrap metal.
• Observe the lens and check whether it darkens and lightens to the appropriate levels and in the appropriate timeframe for the welding task at hand.

Conclusion

Testing your auto-darkening welding helmet is essential to ensure that it is providing adequate protection and functioning properly. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can rest assured that your welding helmet is working as intended and providing the necessary protection for your eyes and face during welding tasks.