What eye protection is best with Plasma Cutter

[Mark @ Everlast]

You need to protect from IR and UV radiation. Angle of view has a lot to do with it as well. Some plasma cutter consumables allow more direct view of the arc than others.
I found that observing OSHA recommendations is generally a good idea whether doing it for myself or someone else. Check this out.

https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHAfactsheet-eyeprotection-during-welding.pdf

 

[dstig1]

There is a good fundamental reason most glasses/lenses have 100% or nearly 100% UV protection: Most of them are made from polycarbonate. The natural absorbance spectra for PC has a very strong absorbance of all UV rays. Tinted or not, the base polymer does not let UV through. IR is taken care of with either tint or something to reflect the IR like the gold lenses that some really like. And visible light is taken care of with the tint. But remember one key thing is that if you only have shade 5 glasses on, your eyes will be protected from the UV and the rest of the light spectra as per shade 5 standards, but it is still hitting your face and neck and any other exposed skin. That is where a shade 5 faceshield is a very wise method for protection from low-mid amp plasma cutting. And long sleeves. I always cringe when I see people plasma cutting or TIG welding in short sleeves or with other exposed skin for that reason.

 

[dragoneggs]

There is a good fundamental reason most glasses/lenses have 100% or nearly 100% UV protection: Most of them are made from polycarbonate. The natural absorbance spectra for PC has a very strong absorbance of all UV rays. Tinted or not, the base polymer does not let UV through. IR is taken care of with either tint or something to reflect the IR like the gold lenses that some really like. And visible light is taken care of with the tint. But remember one key thing is that if you only have shade 5 glasses on, your eyes will be protected from the UV and the rest of the light spectra as per shade 5 standards, but it is still hitting your face and neck and any other exposed skin. That is where a shade 5 faceshield is a very wise method for protection from low-mid amp plasma cutting. And long sleeves. I always cringe when I see people plasma cutting or TIG welding in short sleeves or with other exposed skin for that reason.

Good stuff.

 

[tkevan]

I use the ones that came with my ThermalArc 42.

 

[Evan03]

I use my digital infinity clear light lense. Ive tried with tinted safety glasses and its to bright for me.
Yes every ounce in awhile ill do a quick hack but if im doing any fine cutting i go on cut mode with welding hood