metalbender
Veteran Member
I like the light idea, have the same problem seeing where to go when the fit-up is tight, which is unavoidable in some instances.
Why do practice beads not...
- Thread starter sea2summit
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sea2summit
Elite Member
You guys are running lights with auto darkening helmets?
radios1
Elite Member
I do, it lets you see what you are welding when the arc starts and welding begins, because the auto darkening helmet darkens at that time, and you can't see without a good light source at that time..
I run a LED flood light if I’m working in a big area like a truck cab. The helmet darkens to shield the dangerous wavelengths and the flood light gives clarity even though the helmet has shaded. Of course you dont always have the space or time to light up the work piece but it really helps when I do.
dragoneggs
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I think the bright light on the work area helps reduce the contrast or 'dynamic range' between the arc and the surrounding area just in front of the puddle. I know bright lighting helps me stay on track.
WranglerX
Super Member
Why would you not.... Headlight help you see in the dark.....
Try it before you question it....
Get small but powerful LED flashlight and duct tape it to top of helmet, be sure to aim it to same point where your vision is when striking arc....
Its just a LED head that snaps on 9 volt battery...
Dale
WranglerX
Super Member
Why would you not.... Headlight help you see in the dark.....
Try it before you question it....
Get small but powerful LED flashlight and duct tape it to top of helmet, be sure to aim it to same point here your vision is when striking arc....
$4.72 - 9 Volt 6 LED Pocket Flashlight FLD-12667
Might start a what I call a "visual search" (instead of text) for ideas here...
welding helmet with lights - Google Search
Also clean front and rear of lenses of helmet and replace plastic lens shields.... Once they get cloudy with smoke particals it is hard to see and plastic shields do become scratched and crudded up from just plain use....
Dale
OP
sea2summit
Elite Member
Why would you not.... Headlight help you see in the dark.....
Try it before you question it....
Get small but powerful LED flashlight and duct tape it to top of helmet, be sure to aim it to same point where your vision is when striking arc....
Its just a LED head that snaps on 9 volt battery...
Dale
I’m questioning trying to figure out how it’s helping. Didn’t know if it was supposed to help non-auto darkening more to see where they’re starting the arc etc.
Guess I’ll newb somewhere else.
ruffdog
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Try practicing on similar base metals. Heavy and thick base metal will act much differently than thinner material. Different conditions mean different amps, travel speed, rod, angle, and technique. Also, experience will help you get into a comfortable position while welding. No, I do not use a auto-darkening helmet.
WranglerX
Super Member
It going to light up the path where you are pushing/pulling the bead..... A.D. or standard helmet does not matter it lights the way for the weld process..... The more ambient light you can flood into the area with the easier to see where you want to run bead....
Its like using a flashlight lighting a path in the night....
Dale
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