Auto darkening welding helmets are a relatively new design in welding technology. Previously, most welding helmets used polarized lens shades, or perhaps darkly tinted glass to create a lens shade that was safe to the user. This technology was safe, since even primitive welding helmets protect users against retina burns, skin burns and ultraviolet rays. However, in previous years welders were always forced to choose between convenience or clear perception. With auto darkening welding helmets, the transparent material darkens automatically upon being exposed to the welding ark.

Two Auto Darkening Lens Welding Helmets

There are two auto darkening welding helmet series that deserve special mention. First, the Lincoln Auto Darkening Welding Helmets line. This includes the Lincoln Electric Stars and Strips Auto Darkening Helmet (between $170.00 – $240.00), the Lincoln Ultrashade Silver Elite Auto-Darkening Welding Helmet ($140.00 -- $180.00) and the Lincoln Ultrashade Trackside Auto Darkening Welding Helmet
($150.00 – $180.00). These helmets protect against IR and UV light, have two sensors and a large solar panel, meets all ANSI, CSA and DIN standards and does not require the welder to nod the hood down. The Pipeliner Auto Darkening Welding Helmets series is a lower-priced and is molded from the Superglas Plus series, which was one of the best welding helmets in performance and accessories.

How do you know what auto darkening welding helmets are worth buying? You can seek out a welding helmet auto darkening review for a detailed recommendation. In general, the quality of auto darkening welding helmets is determined by the shade, the weight and other features. Some people prefer using fixed shades or variable shades, though it largely depends on the arc process. (For example if you use the same arc welding process on the same kind of material, a fixed shade is fine) However, if you use your auto darkening welding helmet for a variety of applications then a variable shade is more to your liking. A lightweight design is also important, as you want to be able to move freely and see freely, without sacrificing any protection. (Even a slight crack can compromise the safety of a welding helmet) Sensor bars of welding helmets are also preferable, that way you limit the field of response so that the helmet won't be triggered by accident. Other popular features include curbed and clear spatter shields, full adjustable helmets and of course, a helmet's warranty policy.

Some companies also have custom auto darkening welding helmets for personalizing the welder helmet according to design or fitting. Your welding job just became that much easier!