What Are Welding Helmets?
Welding helmets protect your eyes, face and head from arc flash, sparks and spatter while you weld, cut, or grind. This category includes lightweight passive shells and auto-darkening helmets that accept ArcOne® shades and the required inner/outer cover plates shown on each product page.
Auto-Darkening vs. Passive Welding Helmets
- Auto-Darkening Helmets – Electronic lens changes from light state to selected shade when the arc strikes. Look for adjustable shade, sensitivity, and delay, plus options like grind mode and large viewing areas.
- Passive Helmets – Fixed-shade lens provides dependable protection with simple, rugged construction. Great for consistent processes and heavy shop use.
Key Features to Compare
- Shade range (fixed or variable) to match process & amperage.
- Viewing area size and clarity for better puddle control.
- Grind mode for non-darkening use during prep and cleanup.
- Headgear comfort – ratchet adjustments, balanced shells, and padding to reduce neck fatigue.
- Filter compatibility – each helmet specifies the matching ArcOne® filter model and the correct inner/outer cover plates.
- PAPR compatibility – select models pair with powered air systems (see specifications).
How Do I Choose a Welding Helmet?
- Match your process & amperage and pick a shade range that covers it (follow published shade charts).
- Select the filter size that fits the helmet model and the viewing area you prefer.
- Set sensitivity & delay to suit ambient light and comfort when switching back to light state.
- Choose grind mode & controls (external vs. internal) based on your workflow.
- Confirm compatibility with respirator, hard hat, or other PPE you plan to use.
- Add the correct cover plates and optional cheater/magnifying lenses if needed.
Use, Care & Safety
- Inspect shell, headgear, lens and cover plates before use; replace pitted or cloudy plates.
- Keep optical sensors clean and unobstructed for reliable switching.
- Test darkening before each shift; adjust sensitivity/delay to suit arc and shop lighting.
- Store the helmet dry and protected from spatter when not in service.
- Use the appropriate shade level for the process—glasses alone are not a substitute for arc welding.
Related Products
- Auto-darkening filters
- Welding glasses & safety goggles
- Respiratory kits and PAPR accessories
- Cheater lenses (magnifiers) and adapter plates
Welding Helmets FAQ
Quick answers to shoppers’ most common questions.
What shade do I need for my welding process?
Match the shade to process and amperage. As a general guide: MIG 9–13, TIG (low-amp) 9–12, Stick 10–13, and Plasma 8–12. Always follow the shade chart in the helmet/filter specs.
What’s the difference between sensitivity and delay?
Sensitivity controls how easily the lens darkens when it detects an arc (helpful in low-amp TIG). Delay controls how long it stays dark after the arc stops to protect against afterglow.
Do I need special cover plates for my filter?
Yes. Filters are size-specific and require the correct inner and outer cover plates listed on the product page to protect the lens and maintain clarity.
Can I grind with my welding helmet?
Many models include a grind mode that disables darkening for grinding and prep work. Verify the helmet’s specs and switch location (external vs. internal).
Will this helmet work with a respirator?
Several shells are compatible with respirators or PAPR systems. Check the model’s compatibility notes and overall clearance before ordering.