What are welding filters?
Welding filters (lenses) protect your eyes from harmful light and heat during welding or cutting. They control brightness using a fixed shade or an auto-darkening LCD that changes state in milliseconds, allowing you to see your workpiece while blocking UV/IR at all times.
How do I choose the right welding filter?
- Match your helmet: Select a filter that fits your helmet’s outside size and accepts the correct inner/outer cover plates.
- Pick the shade: Use a fixed shade for consistent amperage/processes, or a variable-shade auto-darkening lens for a wider range (common ranges include Shade 5 for cutting, Shade 8–13 for welding).
- Check viewing area: Larger windows improve visibility and comfort for long welds or out-of-position work.
- Set sensitivity & delay (auto-darkening): Tune sensitivity to ambient light and delay to control how long the lens stays dark after the arc stops.
- Consider optical clarity & grind mode: Higher clarity ratings reduce distortion; grind mode keeps the lens light for grinding.
Auto-darkening welding filters: key features
- Variable shade control: Dial in the exact darkness for stick, MIG, TIG, plasma, and cutting.
- Adjustable sensitivity & delay: Adapts to bright shops or low-amp TIG starts.
- Fast switching speed: Rapid transition from light to dark helps reduce eye strain.
- Consistent UV/IR protection: Protection remains “on” in both light and dark states.
Filter ↔ Helmet compatibility (from sizing chart)
Use the model families below as a quick pairing guide. Each filter has a specific outside size and requires the correct inner and outer cover plates.
- 240 Hawk
- 2000V Carrera
- 7000VX Python
- X54V Vision • AirPlus Vision
- T240 Hawk
- 5000V Python
- 7500VX Eagle • Python • SRS00/SRS84 Kit
- X54V1 Vision
- 1000F Carrera
- 5500V Eagle • Python • SRS00/SRS84 Kit
- IDF81 Vision • AirPlus Vision
- X81VX Vision • AirPlus Vision
Welding filter compatibility & sizing
Filters are manufactured in specific outside sizes (e.g., 2"×4-1/4" windows and full-cartridge formats). Always verify:
- The outside dimensions match your helmet’s filter frame.
- The required inner and outer cover plates are installed to protect the lens from spatter and scratches.
Setup & care for welding filters
- Install with clean, undamaged cover plates; replace plates that are pitted, cloudy, or cracked.
- Keep sensors unobstructed so the lens can detect the arc reliably.
- Test auto-darkening before each use; adjust sensitivity/delay as needed.
- Store lenses dry and protected from spatter when not in use; avoid solvents on LCDs.
When should I use Shade 5, 8–13, and grind?
- Shade 5–8: Oxy-fuel cutting, brazing, and some low-amp processes.
- Shade 9–13: Most stick, MIG, and TIG welding—use darker shades as amperage increases.
- Grind mode: Keeps the lens in the light state for surface prep and finishing without removing your helmet.
Welding Filters FAQ
Do auto-darkening filters protect my eyes when they’re light?
Yes. Quality auto-darkening lenses provide constant UV/IR protection in both light and dark states; the darkening only changes visible light transmission for comfort and visibility.
Fixed shade vs. variable shade—what’s the difference?
Fixed shade lenses have one darkness level—great for repetitive, single-process work. Variable shade lenses let you adjust darkness for different processes and amperage, ideal if you switch tasks frequently.
How do I stop my auto-darkening lens from flickering?
Clean or replace cover plates, ensure the arc sensors aren’t shaded, increase sensitivity, and check batteries if applicable. Extremely low-amp TIG may also require higher-sensitivity settings.
When should I replace a welding filter?
Replace if the viewing area becomes permanently cloudy, shows cracks or delamination, or if the lens no longer switches consistently. Always replace damaged cover plates immediately.
Which accessories do I need with a new filter?
Most filters require matching inner and outer cover plates. Many users also add spare plates, anti-fog wipes, and a protective lens pouch for storage.