05 November 2020 ABL's Easy Guide To Welding Helmets
Are You A Welder or Fabricator?
Want To Know More About 3M Speedglas PAPR?
Welding Helmets are a MUST for any person working in the welding industry to protect them from the carcinogenic fumes. However, many people find them uncomfortable to wear.How Do You Find The Right Helmet For You?
First you must ensure that your helmet is ergonomic, but what is ergonomic?Ergonomic (adj.) - Designed for efficiency and comfort in the working environment. There are many helmets on the market claiming an ergonomic design, however there are a few signs that make some helmets more a natural extension rather that a shield.
How does it feel on your head?
One of the most important aspects of a welding helmet to welders is the weight, especially those working long shifts, it needs to be lightweight. As a result of this, many companies slap on a lightweight sticker for a selling point but there is more to it than just numbers on a scale.The helmets centre of gravity is the dependent of whether it will be comfortable and ergonomic.
Speedglas head harnesses are crafted to distribute the weight of the helmet across the top of the wearer’s crown which creates a balanced comfortable feel.
This also eliminates pressure points and minimises neck strain and injury over an extended time period.
The head harness from Speedglas G5-01 and 9100 series features two adjustable crown straps with the ratchet tightening mechanism. This allows for a custom fit and ensures weight distribution across the head.
Speedglas head harnesses are crafted to distribute the weight of the helmet across the top of the wearer’s crown which creates a balanced comfortable feel.
This also eliminates pressure points and minimises neck strain and injury over an extended time period.
The head harness from Speedglas G5-01 and 9100 series features two adjustable crown straps with the ratchet tightening mechanism. This allows for a custom fit and ensures weight distribution across the head.
But Is It Versatile?
Speedglas helmets are built to adapt to different applications of welding as well as different welders.The head harnesses not only avoid pressure points on your head but they also include a 6 point adjustment system to enable you to tailor the fit to the shape of your head.
A flip up mechanism first pioneered in the 9100 FX Air, now included in the MP Air and G5-01, allows welders to move from welding to grinding by simply lifting the welding visor. Helping to improve efficiency and productivity.
A PAPR Unit You Say?
Speedglas welding helmets are paired with the powerful and award winning 3M Adflo Powered Air Respirator.The Adflo unit is designed for extreme efficiency and comfort for use over prolonged periods of time. It all starts with the durable and secure leather belt which spreads the weight and offers additional back support.
Now You Know What Speedglas Is Capable Of, Let’s Learn About The Do’s And Don’ts!
Consumables
There are many consumables that need to be replaced in the Adflo unit such as: particle filter, pre-filter and optional gas filter.Regular replacement of your filters can have a world of benefits from both a cost saving and productivity standpoint.
It is recommended that you have a regular turnover of your pre-filters as it will lighten the load on your particle filter and in turn making them last longer. It also helps prolong your battery life as the motor does not have to work so hard.
If you notice a dip in your respirator’s performance such as a large drop in battery usage time, your Adflo is likely to be currently overworking and needs fresh filters and pre filters.
The more conscious you are about you Adflo’s performance the better it will perform.
The more conscious you are about you Adflo’s performance the better it will perform.
Storage
Storage is key to your Adflo’s life!Always store your Adflo in a safe cool dry place, such as a bag or box.
Don’t forget to charge your battery! It helps prolong the life of your battery to the recommended 6mths.
Cleaning
The welding environments are extremely harsh, and whilst the Adflo is hard wearing and built for the tough conditions, a regular cleaning schedule such as regularly wiping it down with a moist cloth helps to reduce the build up of grit and particles.It is also important to know the difference between general wear and tear and significant damage. Certain Adflo parts such as the spark arrestor and breathing tube should be replaced at the first sign of a break or tear. Any leakage whatsoever will compromise the unit’s operation and your safety.
And Now The Don’ts!
The main mistake made by users of Adflo units is trying to clean the filters and pre-filters with can be extremely dangerous and detrimental to your health. This is clearly outlined in the instruction manual:“The particle and gas filters cannot be cleaned. Do not attempt to remove contamination using for example compressed air as this will destroy the filters, the equipment will not give the expected protection and the warranty will be invalidated.”
So the most cost effective way to clean your filters is to replace them!
For a detailed breakdown and instructions for your specific Speedglas welding helmet with Adflo PAPR, visit AWS’s Care & Maintenance Tool!
Speedglas 9100Xxi Air Welding Helmet (13337) |
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Speedglas 9100Xxi Flip Up Mp W/ Adflo Air (13340) |
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Speedglas Heavy Duty 9100Xxi W/ Adflo Air (13338) |
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Speedglas Heavy Duty 9100Xxi Fx W/ Adflo Air (13339) |
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Speedglas Heavy Duty G5-01Vc W/ Adflo Air (21596) |
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