How to choose a Solder Mask?

In a previous article we developed the technical aspects of photosensitive masks, in this publication our professionals will give a series of indications that can be very useful before purchasing one. photosensitive mask, since it will allow you to make the most of the budget.

With the rise and modernization of industrial processes that have been experienced in recent decades, the protection of workers has become increasingly important, and one of the elements to consider in this aspect is the photosensitive mask.

The process that involves welding is usually very dangerous due to the sparks that such a task causes, and also, although it is not known by many operators, due to the presence of ultraviolet and infrared rays that are emitted by the welding arc. It is for these three main reasons, although not mutually exclusive, that security measures must be taken to safeguard the physical integrity of workers in order to meet this objective, this technical article focuses on determining how to choose a welding mask.

As can be seen in the photograph, the parts of the worker’s body that are most exposed during the process are usually the neck and face. It is for this reason that it is common for operators who do not have the appropriate operational safety elements for the welding process to suffer serious damage to the aforementioned areas, the eyes being one of the most delicate areas. Although some people use More expensive simple for light work, that is not the most recommended, it is always better to optimize security processes, and for this it is essential to know how to choose a welding mask.

The precarious cardboard masks gave way in the 1960s to welding masks that allowed the worker to use both hands, but as technology advanced, prioritizing protection and safety, a mask model was developed that looks like a helmet and tends to provide greater protection to the entire head and neck sector. The variety is so wide that, to know how to choose a welding mask, several aspects must be taken into account.

One of the factors to consider when choosing a mask or another is the practicality for the operator when working. Although it is true that the More expensive conventional (with common glass) are less expensive, they have some disadvantages, such as the need to constantly raise and lower them during the welding process to be able to see the details of the work, which can cause fatigue and pain in the cervical area of ​​the worker . Therefore, how to choose a welding mask It is an important process from the point of view of occupational health. Obviously, it is also an important decision from the operational point of view, since the conventional masks they do not allow the same freedom of movement in confined spaces.

Currently, these inconveniences are absolutely avoidable and security can be weighed without losing operability because they exist in the market photosensitive welding masks, which are optimal from the point of view of preventing occupational accidents.

Photosensitive welding mask

The photosensitive welding masks which began to be introduced in the 1980s, have an automatic darkening system, which is controlled by the operator and allows the worker to choose the shade or light that best suits their needs, during the entire process of welding.

if you want to know how to choose a welding mask note that the photosensitive welding masks They provide excellent protection against sparks, ultraviolet and infrared rays at all times and also darken to practically any degree of shade in a short period of time, which allows absolute freedom to work with both hands and in any space, eliminating this forms the periods of lost time involved in raising and lowering a conventional mask. Some brands make versions of masks that are solar powered and do not rely on batteries.

To determine how to choose a welding mask photosensitive, We recommend taking the following into account:

• Make the size of the viewing window according to your needs.
• Adjustment to the head and comfort of the harness that supports it.
• Some photosensitive welding masks they are also solar powered, you can choose between a battery powered version or a more eco-friendly one.
• It is also convenient that you take into account, if you need it, the possibility of improving vision with magnifying lenses, which will determine a larger size of the mask.
• It is important that you anticipate the amount of shadows provided by the mask. The choice between a fixed or variable shadow mask will depend on the type of welding the operator is doing. If only one type of material is welded with a similar amperage and process, fixed shade lens facepieces are recommended. If different materials are used instead, a mask that has an operator-adjustable, variable lens shade will work best. The setting will depend on the amperage and sensitivity of the user’s eyes.
• Likewise, the response time of the darkening can be decisive. Blackout time measures the speed with which the lenses change from a natural light state to a darker state when the process of welding begins. As a general rule, the more welding arcs you start per day the better results you will get with faster darkening, thus preventing eye strain.
• It is very important to consider the size and weight of the mask. exist More expensive of different sizes and weight, therefore it is advisable to try it before buying it to see if the weight is tolerable. Remember that the heavier the mask, the greater the neck fatigue.
• Currently the variety of materials of the More expensive is greater to provide operators with solutions according to their operational needs. There are aluminum masks that optimize protection against heat (over 300 Amps). There are also silver masks to reflect heat and versions with gaskets, to absorb shock and increase the durability of the mask.
• After solving the previous points, you will also have the possibility to evaluate aesthetic aspects and opt for sober models or colorful designs, you can even customize your mask according to your color and drawing preferences.
• These masks generally have a shade range of between 9 and 13 (on the DIN scale, a graduation standardized by the German institute), offering much more useful versatility for the welder who works with various techniques when welding.

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