Chameleon mask: how to choose, filters, adjustments and what they are for

Chameleon type welding helmets are so named because the light filter automatically changes the degree of darkness depending on the intensity of the light flux. This is much more convenient than a regular shield or an old type mask with a replaceable filter. Having put on the chameleon, you can clearly see everything even before you start welding: the filter is almost transparent and does not interfere with your work. When the arc is ignited, it darkens in a matter of seconds, protecting your eyes from burns. After the arc goes out, it becomes transparent again. You can carry out all the necessary manipulations without removing the mask, which is much more convenient than raising and lowering the protective shield and much better than holding the shield in your hand. But a wide selection of different priced items can be confusing: what is the difference, and which one is better? We'll tell you how to choose a chameleon mask below.

Chameleon welding masks come in a wide variety. Choosing is not an easy task at all. Moreover, it is not so much the appearance that is important, but the quality indicators

Safety precautions

Before putting it on, check the settings, operating mode switches, and battery charge.
Always check to see if the filter is getting dark. If it turns off during welding, the protective glass protects the eye to a small extent from IR and UV rays. But it’s safer to stop working immediately. It is dangerous to use a faulty mask. If a defect is found or the filter does not respond, the malfunction is serious and welding cannot be continued. It must be remembered when working that the powerful radiation of the arc and molten electrodes is destructive. In addition to discomfort, this threatens to damage the retina. To prevent loss of vision, it is necessary to correctly adjust the degree of darkening of the filter.

How to choose a Chameleon mask and how to check it when purchasing

A welder's mask is necessary for everyone who uses welding equipment.

From this article you will learn: how to choose a “Chameleon” welding helmet and how to test it without welding before purchasing, what to look for when choosing and much other useful information

Before purchasing a mask, you should carefully read its passport. Even a very simple mask with an automatic light filter (ASF) has a passport, which indicates its degree of darkness, recommendations for the type of welding (MIG, MAG, MMA, TIG) and the type of battery.

How to choose a welding mask? Read more about all the intricacies of choice further in our article.

Replacing batteries in the Chameleon mask

Unfortunately, the CR2032 battery did not last long. Despite the fact that current consumption is measured in microamps, after some time the filter did not work again.

Of course, a question like “What should I do?” didn't even arise. It was necessary to install a more powerful power source. The most suitable option is two 1.5V elements of size AA or AAA. They can be placed in a special battery compartment, which is commercially available. I didn’t have one, so I had to saw off the battery compartment from my favorite TV remote control.

I sawed off the part where the contacts for the batteries are located from the printed circuit board. I cleaned everything unnecessary (microcircuit and wiring) and soldered two stranded wires to the contacts. The end was lightly covered with what was at hand. It turned out to be a good battery compartment for two AA elements.

The battery compartment is attached to the mask with two M2.5 bolts. The holes are drilled in the center, so the mount does not interfere with the installation of batteries in the compartment. Can be mounted anywhere. The wires should be as short as possible. I secured the compartment at the top, above my head. In this case, the overall balancing is not disturbed, and there is free access to the compartment for replacing batteries. During idle periods, you can even remove one battery from the compartment. For the purpose of, so to speak, global economy.

When welding, it is extremely important to provide yourself with protective equipment. During the process, a person is exposed to many dangers, such as the possibility of sparks and molten metal getting on the face and eyes, the harmful effects of gases and vapors of molten metals in the respiratory tract, the harmful effects of various types of radiation, and much more. In order to protect yourself from possible injuries, you must use a welding helmet.

Mask manufacturers

The bulk is produced in China or Korea, there are both completely unusable products and quite good samples.

For professional welding work, it is worth taking a closer look at European brands. In terms of pricing, they are, of course, more expensive than their Chinese-Korean counterparts, but by purchasing them, you will really get a high-quality mask. It is worth taking a closer look at these companies:

OPTREL.
SPEEDGLAS.
FORTE.
OTOS.
PROTON.
DNIEPER.

Well, of course, you can choose a high-quality mask from domestic manufacturers.

There are also often promotional offers of the following type: buy a welding inverter and receive a chameleon mask as a gift. As a rule, such shields are the cheapest and their origin is rather doubtful. Sometimes professional protection is comparable in cost to the price of a welding machine.

When choosing protective equipment for welding work, you need to set your priorities correctly. Yes, a high-quality mask is a must. But how necessary is it? If you need a shield for periodic repairs in a garage with small-scale welding work, then you can take a cheaper domestic model. For such moments, even a regular welding shield with constant darkness is suitable.

It’s another matter when a mask is needed for constant work, when welding operations are carried out in large volumes. Then the chameleon shield will become a necessary equipment.

Many professionals still make do with shields with regular permanently darkened filters and often recommend them as the best option. But here it’s more a matter of habit, because chameleons create more comfortable working conditions for the welder.

The question of whether you need to purchase a chameleon welding helmet and which one to choose depends on the work that will be carried out, taking into account personal preferences.

What do you think about chameleon masks and their use? If you have experience in their operation, as well as selection, share it in the comments block to our article. Point out the nuances that were missed in this article

What you should pay attention to and which samples are the best, taking into account your personal experience. After all, nothing can replace the advice of a knowledgeable person

Top 8 recommendations to prevent your mask from fogging

Very often, not only beginners, but also experienced divers are faced with the problem of mask fogging. This can ruin the entire diving experience as the diver loses the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful underwater world and interact with other divers. At the same time, fogging of the mask glass is also quite a dangerous phenomenon, because the diver may become buoyant or disorientated in his environment. There are several ways to prevent your mask from fogging, but you should differentiate between caring for new and used masks.

We have collected for you the top 8 recommendations for preventing your mask from fogging:

New scuba diving masks: New scuba diving masks have residue left on the lenses from manufacturing. If this coating is not removed from the inside of the lens, the mask will constantly fog up, no matter what anti-fog products you use. There are two good ways to remove this sediment:

Toothpaste. Squeeze a small amount of toothpaste onto the inside of the lens and rub it in with your finger or soft cloth for a few minutes. The simpler the toothpaste, the better, so try to choose a toothpaste without whitening additives or fine particles. For best results, you can leave the toothpaste on the lens overnight or rub the mask several times to allow the chemicals to take effect. Avoid using abrasive toothpaste or rough cloths as this may scratch the lens.
Fire. Run the fire along the inside of the lens until the mask turns black, the flame will burn away the residue. A lighter or candle is suitable for this. Hold the heat until the lens on the inside of the mask is completely blackened. After the mask has cooled, remove soot with a soft cloth. Repeat this procedure two or three times until the glass stops darkening. Do not allow the glass to overheat, and do not try this experiment on masks with plastic lenses (they will melt). Keep the flame at a safe distance from the soft silicone skirt as it can melt at the slightest heat.

What to do about fogging of already used scuba diving masks?

These masks must be treated with a special anti-fog agent before each dive. If the anti-fog solution does not help, there is likely some residue left on the lens from manufacturing. To remove it, try using toothpaste or fire (description above)

Any product that prevents the formation of condensation on the inner surface of the lens will cope with fogging of the mask. So, the most common methods:

Saliva - Apply a little saliva to the inner surface of the glass of the mask and rub it with your finger. Quickly dip the mask into water. The purpose of this method is to leave a thin layer of saliva on the inner surface of the glass. This method does not work if the mask dries out before diving, so it is recommended to use the described technique immediately before diving.
Specialized anti-fog agents - Commercial anti-fog agents are designed specifically to create a coating on the lens of the mask, and many divers find them more effective than saliva. Apply a few drops of anti-fog to the mask, rub in with your finger and quickly rinse the mask with fresh water. Remember to leave a thin layer of anti-fog on the inside surface of the glass.
Baby Shampoo - Baby shampoo is used in a similar way to commercial anti-fog products. Many divers carry a bottle of diluted baby shampoo among their equipment. In order to protect the mask from fogging, just apply a few drops of shampoo to the lens and quickly rinse it with water. It is preferable to use children's rather than adult shampoo, as it has hypoallergenic properties, is less irritating to the eyes and is biodegradable. Plus, baby shampoo smells good.
Glycerin Soaps and Dishwashing Detergents – Glycerin soaps and dishwashing detergents can be used in the same way as baby shampoo. Apply a few drops to the inner surface of the mask, rub and quickly rinse the mask. If there is a leak in the mask, there is a possibility that the anti-fog agent and water may get into the diver's eyes. One of the problems with using such products is that they are very irritating to the surface of the eye. Sometimes glycerin soaps and dishwashing detergents are not biodegradable. Do not pour any non-biodegradable anti-fog products into the water.
Toothpaste - Rub some toothpaste on the inside of the mask lens until the glass is completely covered with a layer of paste. Gently rinse the mask with fresh water until the lens is clean. If a diver is overly sensitive to menthol additives, the air inside the mask may irritate the eyes or cheeks during a dive. When using this method, it is recommended to wear the mask for a while before the first dive to ensure that the menthol additives do not irritate the diver's eyes and skin.
Potatoes - According to experienced divers, you can use potatoes to prevent your mask from fogging up. Cut the potato, wipe the cut area on the glass and quickly rinse the mask. This method is more of a legend, but we advise you to try it if you happen to have potatoes and a knife on hand before diving.

We wish you beautiful and vibrant dives!

Source: https://club.navionic.ru/top-8-rekomendacij-po-predotvrashheniyu-zapotevaniya-maski/

Light filter for welding helmet

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A light filter is necessary to protect against ultraviolet and infrared radiation during welding. The automatic liquid crystal light filters found in Chameleon masks have many advantages over their simple analogues. The mask does not need to be constantly raised or lowered; thanks to the sensors, the light filter operates quickly and darkens when the arc is ignited, and after finishing the work it brightens. It's practical and safe.

Important!

The Chameleon welding helmet must be stored in a dark room or closet, at normal temperature (not hot or cold). Before use and after use, wipe it and the screen with a clean cloth so that they do not deteriorate.

The Chameleon light filter has a power supply, arc detection sensors, and control capabilities. It is quickly installed in the mask, can be powered by a solar panel or replaceable batteries (depending on the type) and can have 3 types of adjustment.

Adjustment of the degree of darkness. Placed on the outside of the mask or inside.
Adjusting sensitivity (how quickly the dimming is triggered).
Adjustment of the darkening period (long, short or medium).

Light filter for welding helmet Chameleon

Why doesn't the darkening work on chameleon welding helmets?

Welding work requires special personal protective equipment. The purpose of a welding helmet is to protect the retina from burns. A chameleon-type mask with an automatic darkening function allows visual control over the ignition of the arc.

Principle of operation

The appearance of the mask is not very different from classic models. The design is as follows:

A housing that protects the welder from splashes of molten metal and other harmful factors.
Liquid crystal multilayer light filter with the function of automatic adjustment of the darkening level, depending on the intensity of work.
Module for setting and controlling the light filter.
Removable power supply.

A light filter is installed in the viewing glass. It is a device with several liquid crystals. In an inactive state, they do not show themselves in any way - the glass only protects from glare. But when the light sensors signal, the filter comes into operation, rearranging the arrangement of the crystals, darkening the glass. The reaction to the flash is almost instantaneous - about 0.0005 seconds.

The filter also reacts to the end of work with a delay, the level of which is set manually.

Please note that the design, thanks to built-in filters, provides protection from infrared and ultraviolet radiation even if it breaks.

How to configure correctly, what do you need to remember?

After purchasing a new device, you must study the operating instructions . This will help you figure out how to set up a chameleon mask for welding. Types of adjustments will be discussed later. Now we will give some useful tips to future users:

Do not use the chameleon for gas or plasma welding or cutting.
The mask has temperature protection against short-term exposures. If you leave the mask on a hot surface for a long time, it may become unusable.
The body of the shield is not designed for intense mechanical impact. A strong blow can break it.
Unauthorized changes to the design of the light filter are not allowed. Disassembling the cartridge yourself may cause damage. When replacing components, use spare parts recommended by the manufacturer.
Do not use surfactants or solvents to clean the mask. Water getting on the filter is strictly unacceptable.
Replace power supplies only in grinding mode. Salt batteries are used as removable batteries.
Immediately after purchase, adjust all available settings to your preferences. Even incorrect adjustment of the fastening straps will result in skin irritation.

Types of adjustments

Regardless of the manufacturer, all models offer a limited selection of operating settings in order to increase comfort and productivity. The following parameters can be adjusted.

Distance from the eye to the filter

Special nuts are responsible for the distance between the eye and the glass. Please note that this indicator should be the same for each eye. Once the adjustment is complete, the nuts are secured.

Darkness level

Adjustable based on welding parameters. The user manual contains a table for selecting suitable indicators. There are two types:

The first type requires stopping welding to remove the mask and set new parameters. Found on amateur models.

The external location of the regulator allows you to adjust the dimming without interrupting production. Used by large enterprises with large volumes of work.

Sensitivity

Adjustment of the chameleon welder’s mask according to this parameter can be configured in two modes:

The first mode will protect vision not only from the arc, but also from all bright light sources, for example, molten metal. Low susceptibility reacts only to the arc.

Semi-automatic welding in an argon environment requires high sensitivity, since this technology has a low current level. There are technological schemes that allow you to select the necessary parameters, depending on the type of work.

Delay time

This function allows you to adjust the duration of the filter after welding is completed. It will be especially useful when using piece electrodes that can stick . If the adjustment is incorrect, the filter will open before the work is completed, which will result in burns to the retina.

Possible faults

Regardless of the manufacturer and quality of the unit, any mask can break. The reasons for failure may be the following:

Violation of operating temperature conditions.
Mechanical damage.
Use of low-quality components.
End of natural lifespan.

If the operating rules are violated, first of all, they lead to malfunctions of the automatic light filter for the welding helmet.

Before contacting official representatives, try to determine the cause of the problem . Some breakdowns can be easily fixed on your own, without the involvement of qualified specialists.

Spare parts for repairs can be purchased at points of sale of welding equipment.

The simplicity of the mask design ensures no maintenance problems. A technologically complex device is more difficult to repair.

The mask can be powered either by a solar panel or by batteries. Failure of batteries is the main cause of problems with the chameleon . In this case, the solar cells may simply be discharged.

To localize the cause, just leave the device under natural light and then check the functionality. Removable batteries need to be replaced. Replacing the power supply assembly will cost much more.

Problems with glass are visible to the naked eye - external defects in the structure will indicate this. In this case, the filter will not work properly. When replacing LCD glass, it is necessary to comply with the parameters of the element. This is the most expensive part of the assembly.

The biggest problems await the user in case of problems with the control board. In this case, independent repairs, without the involvement of service specialists, are impossible.

Work order

As an example of self-repair, consider the process of restoring a professional device, which, after five years of operation, began to show signs of malfunctioning lithium-ion batteries. The cause of the breakdown was the operating mode - the mask was used several days a year.

Description of the problem: at first the light filter did not work during evening work, while during the day it functioned flawlessly. After some time, the filter stopped working at any time of the day.

The following tools and materials are required for repairs:

Screwdriver Set;
Stationery knife;
Glue gun;
Lighter or matches;
Battery holders (2 pcs.);
Batteries (2 pcs.).

The algorithm of actions is as follows:

Dismantling the chameleon module

We carry out the work according to the scheme below:

General design of the welding helmet.

Scheme of dismantling the chameleon module.

Chameleon module. Inside view.

Let's open it

The front and back of the module are glued using heat sealant. Using a utility knife, make a continuous cut. Be careful not to damage important structural elements - shading glass, control module and connecting cable. In addition, the module contains glass solar cells. After modernization they will not be needed.

Internal structure of the module.

Removing solar panels and lithium battery

After dismantling the solar panels, access to lithium-ion batteries will open. All connecting wires must be removed

Remove the solar cell and lithium battery.

Installing battery holders

The type of holder depends on the specific model. In our case, the type of battery holders is CR-2025. Another area of application for these power supplies is motherboards.

We connect the contacts with the holder by soldering to the terminals from the batteries, after which we attach them to glue.

The nature of the connection of the elements is serial, with connection to the positive terminal of the connection from the solar battery.

Battery holder type 2025/2032.

Batteries installed. Pay attention to the positive terminal.

Assembly and installation of the module

Place the module halves on glue. After assembly, you can check with matches - the filter should respond to a flash of light.

Module after repair.

Operating the Welding Chameleon

The main requirement for caring for the mask: the light filter must be taken care of: it is easily scratched. Therefore, you cannot put the mask face down. It should only be wiped with a completely clean and soft cloth. If necessary, you can moisten the cloth with clean water. DO NOT wipe with alcohol or any solvents: the filter is covered with a protective film that dissolves in these liquids.

There is one more feature of any welding chameleons: they begin to “slow down” at low temperatures. That is, they operate with a delay, and in both directions - both for darkening and for brightening. This feature is very unpleasant, so you won’t be able to work normally in them in winter, even if the operating temperature is specified as -10°C, as on the TECMEN DF-715S 9-13 TM8. Already at -5° everything cannot darken in time. So in this regard, OTOS turned out to be more honest, indicating the starting operating temperature from -5°C.

Finally, watch the video on how to choose a chameleon mask for welding.

Marking of filters

The filter markings indicate the following characteristics:

Degree of darkness.
Optical glass type.
Light scattering indicator.
Uniformity of shading.
Angular dependence.

Darkness level

The main parameter by which glass is selected for certain jobs. Modern filters may use Russian or foreign markings, depending on the manufacturer. Domestic designations range from C1 to C13, but most often glasses with markers from C4 to C8 are used for welding masks.

Glass class	Error indicator
1	0.1 DIN
2	0.2 DIN
3	0.3 DIN

European samples are marked from 7 to 16 DIN, although it is more likely to use filters with a rating from 8 to 14 DIN. The degree of shading is better for glasses with a larger number in the marking.

Light filter in a chameleon: what is it and which is better

That small glass that is installed on the welding helmet is a real miracle of science and technology. It contains the latest achievements in optics, microelectronics, liquid crystals and solar energy. This is the “glass”. In fact, this is a whole multi-layered cake, which consists of the following elements:

liquid crystal cells (several layers - the more, the better);

Approximate composition of an automatic light filter in a chameleon welding mask (To increase the size of the picture, right-click on it)
UV filter;
infrared filter;
polarizing films;
welding arc detection sensors (from 2 to 4, there are also them, the more, the better);
protective glass;
batteries (solar batteries and/or lithium batteries).

The main and main advantage of a chameleon welding mask is that even if it did not have time to work, it will not let in ultraviolet and infrared radiation (if the mask was lowered). And the degree of protection from these harmful effects does not depend in any way on the settings. In any case and with any settings, you are protected from these types of harmful influences.

But this is only if the “pie” contains the appropriate filters and they are of the proper quality. Since it is impossible to check this without special devices, you have to rely on certificates. And masks must have them. Moreover, on the territory of Russia only two centers can issue them: VNIIS and the Federal State Budgetary Institution at the All-Russian Research Institute of Labor Protection and Economics. To be sure that the certificate is genuine, its number can be found on the official website of the Federal Service for Accreditation at this link.

This is a form on the Rossaccreditation website for checking the certificate. You can fill in only the number, leaving all other fields empty (To increase the size of the picture, right-click on it)

The certificate number is entered in the appropriate field and you receive the validity date, information about the applicant, and the manufacturer. A small note: the abbreviation RPE stands for “optical personal protective equipment.” This is what a welder's mask is called in bureaucratic language.

If such a certificate exists, the following message will appear. By clicking on the link you will see the text of the certificate (To enlarge the image size, right-click on it)

The most important thing is that you make sure that this product (by the way, compare both the name and model) is safe for your health.

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Classification of automatic welding filters

Since the light filter and its quality are the key element in this product, you should start choosing a chameleon mask with it. All its indicators are classified according to the EN379 standard and must be displayed on its surface through a fraction.

One of the filters in the chameleon mask. Its classification is indicated in red

Now let’s take a closer look at what is hidden behind these numbers and what they should be. Each position can contain a number from 1, 2, 3. Accordingly, “1” is the best option - first class, “3” is the worst - third class. Now let’s talk about which position displays which characteristic and what it means.

Explanation of EN37 classification

Optical class

It reflects how clearly and without distortion the picture will be visible to you through the filter. Depends on the quality of the protective glass (film) used and the build quality. If "1" comes first, distortion will be minimal. If the values are higher, you will see everything as if through a crooked glass.

Light scattering

Depends on the purity and quality of the optical crystals used. Shows the degree of “turbidity” of the transmitted picture. You can compare it with wet car glass: as long as there are no oncoming traffic, the drops hardly interfere. As soon as a light source appears, everything blurs. To avoid this effect, it is necessary that the second position be “1”.

Uniformity or Homogeneity

Shows how evenly the filter is shaded in different parts. If there is a unit in the third position, the difference can be no more than 0.1 DIN, 2 - 0.2 DIN, 3 - 0.3 DIN. It is clear that it will be more comfortable with uniform darkening.

Angular dependence

Reflects the dependence of dimming on viewing angle. Here, too, the best value is “1” - the first class changes the darkening by no more than 1 DIN, the second by 2 DIN and the third by 3 DIN.

This is what the difference between a high-quality mask and a not-so-good filter looks like in real life.

From all this it is clear that the more units in the filter characteristic, the more comfortable you will be working in a mask. This is what you need to focus on when choosing a chameleon welder mask. Professionals prefer at least the following parameters: 1/1/1/2. Such masks are expensive, but even after working for a long time, your eyes will not get tired in them.

Amateur welders, for occasional work, can get by with simpler filters, but class 3 is considered a thing of the past. Therefore, it’s probably not worth buying masks with such filters.

And one moment. Sellers usually call this entire classification with one term “Optical class”. It’s just that this formulation quite accurately reflects the essence of all the characteristics.

Adjustments of the SpeedGlass chameleon welding helmet (SpeedGlas)

There are several more chameleon settings that allow you to adjust the dimming mode for a given situation. They can be located inside, on the light filter, or they can be placed outside in the form of handles on the left on the side surface of the mask. These are the following parameters:

Dimming adjustment. Allows you to change the current dimming level. You can make it lighter/darker without interrupting your work if the control is located outside. If it is located inside, you will need to stop, remove the mask and tighten the adjuster. For non-professionals, this is normal: they don’t need development. But even the pros don’t always like external adjustments: they can hit something.

The controls themselves can be in the form of switches, wheels, or can be made in the form of touch switches
Adjusting sensitivity. It is located inside the mask, on the filter. With its help, you can set what the filter will work on: only on the arc, or also on bright light sources. If you work indoors, you can set the sensitivity to high: the filter will darken when an arc occurs. Since there are no other variable light sources, it will not twitch. On the street, with high sensitivity, it can also respond to sun glare. So here you have to reduce the sensitivity.
Delay in mask clearing. It is necessary to prevent the eyes from receiving light shock from the hot metal after welding is completed. If there is no delay, the filter immediately becomes lighter and the bright glow of the weld pool hits the eyes. It is not dangerous or fatal, but unpleasant. The dimming delay allows you to “push back” the moment of filter brightening for some time. Also, this delay prevents the filter from clearing if you cook with arc separation or if the electrode sticks. So adjustment is necessary.

You may be interested in reading about the types of welds and joints, welding techniques and methods used.

Solar panels, battery life

Some chameleon welding helmets are designed with a built-in, non-replaceable battery that is charged via a solar auxiliary panel. These helmets often require a charging period in direct sunlight before first use, and a similar charging period if they are stored for a long time, which can be a real problem when you want to start welding work as quickly as possible. The disadvantage of this type of mask is the fact that as soon as the battery wears out, the light filter does not work. It is better to buy a welding helmet in which the filter is powered by a replaceable battery and a solar panel, which allows you to start welding right away. Choose a filter with AAA batteries due to their low replacement cost and worldwide availability. Choose lithium batteries for longer life, but note that lithium batteries are more expensive than regular batteries. The service life of a regular AAA battery is about 2000 hours for MIG/MAG, MMA and other types of welding.

Which one to choose?

In order to buy a model for home and production, special attention should be paid to the following factors

Level of reliability of eye protection. Reflects the darkening parameters of the mask display, calculated in DIN and varies in the corridor from 3 to 15 units.

Additional options mode. After the metal hardens, the darkening should be removed, and the glass of the shield should become as transparent as possible. This allows you to continue the work process without removing PPE from your head. At the same time, the practicality and parameters of retinal protection directly depend on the speed of activation of the sensor. The optimal parameter is considered to be 0.1 s.

Ventilation. Welders are often forced to perform work in poorly ventilated areas, so it is best to choose “chameleon” PPE that provides the possibility of forced ventilation

This will allow workers to protect themselves from toxic fumes of hot metal and smoke generated when the electrodes burn.

The weight of the helmet plays an important role. When adjusted correctly, the headband of the product should not put too much pressure on the worker’s head.

At the same time, lightweight models made from synthetic materials are not able to protect the welder from accidental impacts resulting from falling objects.

Particular attention should be paid to the availability of all documents and certificates confirming the quality of the products. All data must be kept in the public domain and provided upon request

Consumers should be able to review the manufacturer's contact information and warranty terms. If at least one of these points is not met, then the safety of the helmet will be very difficult to confirm.

Obviously, the correct choice of any chameleon welding PPE implies increased safety. For the user, the main factor is to focus on the presence of a diagnostic option and the ability to display all information on the display, so that the worker can check all the design settings.

Certificates for welding helmets

TR TS

makes a random selection of masks

When purchasing a chameleon mask for welding, be sure to require a TR CU certificate. What can you do if there is no certificate for your welding helmet? Just put it back on the display.

DIN

An employee of the DIN Certco accreditation center visits the plant and selects 16 welding filters from the batch. Selected filters are tested in accordance with the requirements of EN 379. If all selected filters pass the tests successfully, a DIN certificate is issued for one year. Devices for measuring all characteristics of the light filter must be available directly from the manufacturer. By the way, measuring devices are also subject to inspection.

After successfully passing the second test, the DIN certificate is valid for 4 years. After 4 years, repeated tests are done, and if successful, a certificate is again given for 4 years, and so on all subsequent times. DIN certification guarantees and confirms the safety of welding filters and a high level of quality.

DIN plus

DINPlus is valid for one year only

Since the first thing is the indispensable availability directly from the manufacturer of rather expensive equipment for testing automatic welding filters. Secondly, this is periodic quality testing by an independent certification center employee. What kind of filter quality can we even talk about when the manufacturer doesn’t even have quality control equipment? Just think about the kind of light filters he makes in his garage.

C.E.

according to regulation 89/686/EWG

Anticipating your question, what can prevent a careless manufacturer from providing one licked light filter for testing and then rivet the CE mark for life, we will answer, most likely, nothing really hinders. Therefore, all well-known manufacturers of welding filters go for more expensive voluntary periodic certification, since without an even more stringent DIN certificate, the sale of chameleon welding masks on the European market is almost impossible. Numerous accreditations and certificates are like awards for a soldier. If you have something to brag about, then why not.

A few more certificates

ECS. The ECS designation confirms the product's compliance with all DIN requirements. Manufacturers who use such a mark, in contrast to the CE certificate, voluntarily subject themselves to constant checks of industrial quality control, measuring instruments, as well as final results, and always guarantee the high quality of the masks.
CSA. Standards Association in Canada, standards and certification are the same as DIN. Manufacturing and manufactured goods are also controlled by annual audits.
AS/NZS. Australian/New Zealand certificate, same as DIN accreditation. Once a manufacturer has received this accreditation, the Australian certification association SAIGlobal carries out an annual audit of the manufacturing plant.

Solving the problem of non-darkening of the chameleon welding helmet

When welding, it is extremely important to provide yourself with protective equipment.

During the process, a person is exposed to many dangers, such as the possibility of sparks and molten metal getting on the face and eyes, the harmful effects of gases and vapors of molten metals in the respiratory tract, the harmful effects of various types of radiation, and much more. In order to protect yourself from possible injuries, you must use a welding helmet.

Operating principle of the chameleon welding helmet

On the market you can find two types of shields, with a fixed degree of darkness and chameleon masks. Masks of the second type are distinguished by their higher cost and the presence of an automatic light filter that can respond to the intensity of light radiation, thereby protecting vision.

The principle of operation of the chameleon welding mask is based on the fact that the light filter instantly reacts to light radiation and, depending on the intensity of the latter, automatically darkens the light radiation. The auto-darkening filter, in turn, has a layered structure in which layers of liquid crystals alternate with special films.

At the moment the arc is ignited, the crystals are arranged in a certain order and do not allow part of the light to pass through.

chameleon welding helmet diagram

Based on this principle, you can effectively protect your eyesight from the influence of bright vision.

Existing faults. Do-it-yourself chameleon welding helmet repair

Let's look at the question of why the shield may not work. Let's look at typical welding helmet malfunctions. It often happens that a chameleon welding mask does not perform its main function, namely, it does not reduce the level of light radiation. The essence of the problem may lie in dead batteries.

The chameleon welding helmet can be powered by both regular AAA batteries and a solar panel located on the body. Simply put, replacing the battery can solve the problem. If we consider the first method of powering the shield with energy, then simply insert the batteries into it.

If powered by a battery, you need to hold the shield under a bright light to charge it.

But even after this procedure, you may find that the shield still does not work. The reason may be the protective glass.

Typically, with this type of malfunction, cracks, chips and other mechanical damage are visible on the glass. In this case, it is necessary to replace the liquid crystal glass, which is the most expensive component in the mask.

It is important to remember that the new glass must fully comply with the previous one in all respects.

The filter may blink. Here the protective glass may be either simply dirty or damaged. In this case, it is better to immediately change the filter with protective glass.

It is better not to repair the light filter of a welding helmet yourself. It would be better to contact specialists at a service center. This will cost money, but the service center can accurately identify the cause of the breakdown and specialists will easily fix it.

Poor visibility does not have a beneficial effect on vision, so it is important to properly secure the headband, install a good lighting source in the workplace, remove the film from the protective glass, and adjust the degree of darkness. At low temperatures, there may be a delay in dimming. Do not use the mask at temperatures below - 10 degrees Celsius.

How to properly set up a chameleon mask for welding? What do you need to remember when working?

In order to know how to set up the mask and how to check its performance, it is better to refer to the operating instructions. Important to remember:

the chameleon mask is not suitable for plasma and gas welding and cutting;
Do not leave the shield on a hot surface;
It is better not to disassemble the filter cartridge;
the shield will not withstand strong impacts;
Changes cannot be made to the filter. It is allowed to use spare parts specified in the instructions;
if the chameleon welding helmet does not darken the image, you need to stop working and identify the possible cause of the malfunction;
it is necessary to prevent moisture from entering the light filter;
When cleaning the shield, it is not recommended to use detergents and solvents;
the headband for putting on can cause an allergic reaction, the straps must be adjusted correctly to prevent skin irritation;
In order to change the batteries, switch the shield to grinding mode. When the red light on the filter lights up, you need to replace the batteries;
Before starting work, you need to adjust the mask to suit yourself to achieve maximum comfort. You can select the darkness level, delay time and sensitivity level.

Carrying out maintenance

In order to reduce the likelihood of breakdown to zero, it is necessary to carry out maintenance from time to time. The minimum interval between repairs should be one month.

To remove dirt and dust, you can use a cotton cloth pre-moistened with a non-aggressive liquid. Do not use oil-containing cleaning agents or abrasive materials as this may damage the protective shield.

All cleaning actions must be carried out carefully; do not put too much pressure on the material.

Types of adjustments for chameleon welding helmets

There are several types of adjustments in a welding helmet. Before starting work, it is extremely important to configure all the characteristics. This is necessary for the most effective use of the mask when working. The following are the types of adjustments.

Preparation under the head

It is extremely important to securely fix the shield on your head. The diameter of the headband can be adjusted using a handle located on the back of the head.

The procedure must be carried out with a shield on the head, which will allow you to obtain the necessary tension. If the headband sits high or low, it should be adjusted using a belt passing through the top of the head.

Before starting work, check the fit of the shield. If it does not sit securely, you need to readjust it.

Adjusting the distance from the eyes to the filter

The mask can be moved away from the eyes and brought closer to the eyes by loosening the locking nuts. The distance from both eyes and the filter should be equal. If everything is done correctly, the locking nuts should be tightened.

Adjusting the darkness level

Depending on the type of welding and the current value, you can select the required degree of darkening from the table. This can also be done during operation using the regulator, which is located on the outside of the shield.

Adjusting sensitivity

There are two types of sensitivity: high and low. For most cases, you can set the control knob to the middle position. When working in TIG mode at low current values, maximum sensitivity is required.

For optimal settings, it is better to set the sensitivity to maximum, and then reduce it until the filter begins to perceive light radiation only from the welding arc, and not from external light sources (the sun, lighting lamps, etc.).

The required degree of sensitivity can also be selected according to a scheme where each type of welding has its own level of sensitivity.

Adjusting the delay time

Adjustment is made using the regulator knob, which is located on the inside of the cartridge. A short delay is suitable for spot welding, and a long delay is suitable for welding with high amperage.

Finally

The auto-darkening shield perfectly neutralizes the negative effects of light radiation. There is a huge selection of such shields on the market, such as: welding mask Resanta MS 2, Bars MS-207, Centaur MS-30R and many others.

The shield must be checked upon purchase, otherwise you may purchase a defective or faulty shield. Repairing a chameleon welding helmet with your own hands is worth doing if the damage is not serious. For example, anyone can replace batteries or protective glass.

But if the malfunction is related to the light filter, then it is better to contact a service center, where the breakdown will be quickly identified and corrected.

[Total: 10 Average: 3.2/5]

Rules for choosing filters

Before purchasing masks or glasses, you should understand the optical characteristics of light filters and the specifics of using the products.

Recommendations for choosing filters for welding

If you regularly carry out welding work, you should choose the “Chameleon” mask.
The size of the filter determines visibility and comfort during welding activities.
The filter response time can vary from 0.03 to 0.0001 s.
You should choose models with continuously adjustable dimming levels, which are more comfortable than stepped ones.
It is recommended to use universal filters that have a shade of 9-13 DIN.
The optical class of the filter determines the clarity and visibility of the image through glass (the best option has an indicator of 1).

Additional features

Additionally, you need to pay attention to: dispersion, homogeneity and angular dependence of the filters, what type of welding will be used, current indicators, risk of mechanical stress

When choosing protective devices, it is important to decide how the work will be carried out: indoors or outdoors

When choosing protective devices, it is important to decide how the work will be carried out: indoors or outdoors. The type of work carried out is indicated by markings: E – electric welding, G – gas welding,

The type of work carried out is indicated by markings: E – electric welding, G – gas welding,

B – auxiliary work, C – marking for “Chameleon” type filters.

Marking of different types of welding

To ensure uninterrupted operation of the filter, you should pay attention to:

an adjustment unit, which can be accessed on the front side of the mask, which allows for correction without stopping work;
on/off system that increases the longevity of the power supply and filter;
availability of changing power sources;
the number of sensors that determine the response time;
possibility of adjusting parameters.

When choosing a model, it is recommended to choose filters marked 1/1/1/2, which determines the relationship to the optical class, uniformity and light dispersion.

When purchasing, it is important to study the product certificate, warranty period, and location of service centers. Explanation of the symbols on the welding mask

Explanation of the symbols on the welding mask

Features of operation

Modern Chameleon type filters require special handling, as they are quite fragile:

The filter is afraid of sudden mechanical influences. You should not throw the mask or knock on it;
Glass is cared for using a soft cloth, which, if necessary, can be moistened only with clean water;
It is important to note that these filters have the ability to “slow down” at sub-zero temperatures. As a rule, at temperatures below -5°C, the filter response speed noticeably decreases. This must be taken into account when using the mask in winter.

Setting based on welding mode

Diagram of the front glass of the chameleon mask.

The customizable chameleon welder mask involves the use of several operating modes. There is no need to change filters - you just need to set the required mode. The modes are designated as follows:

MMA – manual arc welding;
MIG/MAG – semi-automatic arc industrial welding, designed to work in a gas environment of argon or carbon dioxide;
MIG (light) – semi-automatic gas arc welding;
TIG, GTAW - arc welding, for which a non-consumable electrode is used;
SAW – semi-automatic welding using flux;
PAC – plasma arc welding.

The instructions also include information about possible breakdowns. In addition to breakdowns, troubleshooting methods are indicated. In case of complex breakdowns, it is best to contact a service center, since the equipment can be damaged, and its further repair will be expensive. If the filter darkens unevenly, you must contact a service center. The filter is out of order, and you can’t fix it with your own hands.

If flickering is observed or there is no darkening of the viewing window, then you need to carefully clean the plate of dirt. If this measure does not help, then it is best to replace the plate, since it is damaged and changing the settings will not help. If the darkening is uneven, it is necessary to remove the mask and inspect the condition of the sensors

It is important to make sure that the surface of the sensors is not blocked and that nothing prevents light from reaching them. The chameleon welder’s mask should not have any dirt stains or dust layers on the surface

Chameleon mask filter darkening selection table.

Damage to the sensors is indicated by the following:

filter response is slow;
the darkening does not go away after the arc goes out;
flickering is observed, the viewing window does not darken.

In this case, you cannot repair the sensors yourself; you must immediately contact a technician at the service center.

For many models, batteries can be easily replaced with your own hands. It is imperative to inspect the sensors, i.e. bring them to a bright light. This is required to ensure work safety, since the lack of darkening leads to eye injuries.

Sensors may be blocked if:

the window begins to brighten when it is illuminated during operation;
the dimming level does not correspond to the set mode;
slow response;
darkening is observed when there is no longer backlighting;
flickering is observed.

It is easy to correct this situation: you need to clean the surface of the sensor itself and inspect the condition of the viewing window panel.

Chameleon welding helmet does not darken: reasons, what to do, is it possible to fix it yourself

Welding work is a high-risk task, so a person must provide himself with reliable protection so as not to get hurt during work.
Very often a person suffers from sparks when working with metal, different types of radiation, gases and vapors are released during the welding process, different types of radiation...

The Chameleon welding mask is your first assistant in protecting against unpleasant consequences during work.

Features when working with a chameleon welding helmet

There are usually two types of masks on sale: masks with a fixed degree of darkness and masks, also called chameleon.

Chameleons are more expensive, but they are also distinguished by their quality: they have an automatic light filter that instantly reacts to intense light, thereby protecting their eyesight.

Depending on the brightness of the light radiation, the Chameleon mask instantly darkens, which will protect the owner of the mask from eye damage.

The structure of the darkening filter is layered - the manufacturer has distributed it so that liquid crystals alternate with a special film.

The principle of operation of the mask can be described as follows: the crystals become in such an order that some of the light simply does not pass through.

How to fix it yourself

The main question is what is the problem with dimming. Let's see what goes wrong most often. A common defect is that a chameleon mask does not darken light radiation, and this is its main task.

One of the root causes may be batteries that have zero charge.

The mask has two batteries: standard AA batteries and solar energy, which is powered through a panel in the body. Usually just replacing the battery is enough.

But if replacing the batteries does not help, then you can try charging from solar energy, leaving the mask for a short period in the sun or bright light.

But this is not the main reason and the way to solve it. This is not one of the possible sources of the dimming problem. There may also be a problem with the protective glass. Usually this damage is visible to the naked eye: chips, cracks, abrasions.

The solution to this problem is usually to replace the mesomorphic glass, which is one of the most expensive elements of the mask. But only glass that is completely similar to the previous one will do, watch this carefully.

“If the light filter blinks, check whether the protective glass is dirty. In the worst case, it may be damaged. If it is damaged, the light filter with protective glass must be replaced.”

With such a problem, it is better to contact a specialist rather than deal with it yourself. The service center is here to help you. Of course, this is not the most economical option, but this way you will know that the root cause of the defect has been accurately identified and they know how to eliminate it.

When working with a welding machine, many factors affect vision impairment, which the Chamaleon mask helps prevent, therefore, when using the mask, make sure that the headband is properly secured, make sure there is good lighting, check that there is no protective film on the glass, and monitor the level of darkness.

High and low temperatures often affect the degree of darkening and may be the reason for its delay. The manufacturer warns that at -10C the Chameleon mask may not work correctly.

How to use a welding mask

Be sure to read the user manual before use, which can make it easier for you to adjust the mask for welding tasks and avoid any obscuring problems.

But remember:

the Chameleon mask should fit tightly to your head and not create voids - this will give you confidence when working that the mask will not fall off and you will not be injured;
To replace the power supply elements, it is necessary to transfer the shield to grinding. If the red light comes on, you need to change the batteries;
if you are prone to allergies, then make sure that the belt for putting on does not rub the areas of contact, otherwise it is more likely that you may experience skin irritation;
Do not use detergents or aggressive cleaning agents to clean the damper;
the light filter does not handle moisture and may fail;
if you notice that the quality of the darkening has deteriorated or is absent, then stop welding until the cause of the malfunction is determined;
It is better not to change the specified settings for the light filter. Only the spare parts specified in the instructions are suitable for its adjustment;
do not use physical force on the shield;
It’s logical to take the filter cartridge to a specialist to find out what’s broken in it;
a surface with elevated temperatures can damage the shield and cause dimming problems;
The Chameleon mask is not used for plasma or gas welding.

How to serve

Regular maintenance will help protect the device from any breakdowns and dimming problems in particular. It is reasonable to carry out repairs no more than once a month. You can provide superficial care yourself: to do this, just wipe with a cotton cloth soaked in water.

Oily substances and abrasive materials are not suitable for cleaning the shield and may damage it. Cleaning should occur without much use of physical force.

How to adjust a welding helmet

There are two types of adjustment. It is important to configure all the characteristics before work, which will increase the efficiency of use. Let's look at what types of adjustments the Chameleon mask has.

The shield should fit snugly to the head. There is a handle on the back of the head with which you can adjust the desired diameter. All these manipulations should be carried out with a shield on your head in order to more accurately feel the tension.

There is also a strap on the top of the head that can adjust the height of the Chameleon mask: higher or vice versa - lower. Be sure to check the fit of the shield before starting cooking.

Adjust the fit until you are sure the shield is securely attached to your head.

What distance should be adjusted from the eyes to the filter?

During operation, it is possible to change the fixation of the Chameleon mask: move it away and bring it closer to the face by loosening the locking nuts. Make sure that the distance from the eyes does not differ. If the result suits you, tighten the fasteners.

Adjusting the Darkness Level

Depending on what type of welding and what current strength is used, there is an option to choose how much to darken the mask. Even during the welding process, the level of darkness on the outside of the damper can be adjusted.

Sensitivity can be divided into high and low. It is possible to set the average sensitivity. But when TIG welding you need to use high sensitivity.

This is the most optimal setting and it is better if it is always set, and during the welding process it is adjusted and lowered until the cure is perceived only from the welding arc, despite the light source.

This is regulated according to a scheme characteristic of a certain type of welding, which is characterized by a certain level of sensitivity.

There is a knob on the inside of the cartridge that makes adjustments. For spot welding, a short delay is suitable, and for a long delay, welding with a high amperage is suitable. Proper adjustment will eliminate dimming problems.

Conclusion

Auto-dimming controls exposure to harmful radiation. There is a large selection of shields in this direction: Forte MC-1000, Centaur SM-152, Vitals Professional Thor 2500 LCD...

Don’t forget to check the shield when purchasing so as not to purchase a faulty or defective one. Only in case of minor damage and dimming problems can you carry out repairs yourself.

Such breakdowns include replacing power supplies or protective glass. If the filter breaks down, you should contact a service center, where they will replace it efficiently and quickly.

Marking of filters

The filter markings indicate the following characteristics:

Degree of darkness.
Optical glass type.
Light scattering indicator.
Uniformity of shading.
Angular dependence.

Darkness level

Glass class	Error indicator
1	0.1 DIN
2	0.2 DIN
3	0.3 DIN

Let's sum it up

At the moment, there are various light filters for welding helmets - from cheap tinted glasses to ultra-modern automatic filters like Chameleon. Depending on the quality of the mask, the quality and comfort of the welding work performed mainly changes.

The selection of a welding filter should be made taking into account its characteristics, which are presented in the form of special markings. It indicates for what welding and current strength a particular filter is suitable. An important characteristic of protective glass is its optical performance. When purchasing a welding helmet, it is also recommended to familiarize yourself with the relevant quality certificates. This will help you make the right choice and get high-quality protection for welding work.

The best manufacturers of welding equipment

If welding is rarely done at home, and the duration of such work is short, then you can limit yourself to buying an inexpensive Chinese light filter, but you should not count on its high quality. It is better for professionals not to save money and purchase products from popular, reliable manufacturers:

3M is an American company that produces not only light filters, but also shields, masks, and plates. All products are of high quality, so the manufacturer occupies a leading position in the Russian and world markets.
Svarog is a popular Russian company that produces protective equipment and welding equipment. The advantage of their products is their affordable price and high quality.
FUBAG is a German manufacturer that produces equipment and protective equipment for various industries and construction. Offers a large selection of replacement light filters and welding helmets.
Quattro Elementi is an Italian manufacturer. It produces modern models with fixed filters and those that can change the level of darkness in accordance with the strength of the light flux.
BRIMA is another German company popular in Russia, offering protective equipment used for welding by both amateurs and professionals.

produces masks and light filters.

How to prevent your mask from fogging up

By Brenda Nelson.

Surely every diver has experienced how unpleasant it is when a mask fogs up. This problem is often just an annoyance, but it can also turn into quite a nuisance that will prevent you from enjoying your dive and staying safe. Whether you're an experienced diver or a newbie, we hope these tips will help you keep your mask clear and your dive stress-free.

Processing in advance

There are several steps you can take to reduce mask fogging before you even get to the water. Cleaning your mask with toothpaste (not whitening toothpaste) is a great way to reduce fogging, especially for brand new masks. There are also specially made products on the market, but toothpaste is a good alternative. You can use a soft brush or your finger to apply after washing your hands.

How to select a filter

The response time of the light filter is regulated by European standards EN379, according to which shading units are calculated in DIN units. When the illumination level increases from 4 to 13 DIN, the response inertia should not exceed 4 ms, and when moving to a more sensitive range (4-9 DIN) - 160-180 ms. Since the inertia of the human eye is at least 250 ms, the specified standards fully ensure effective protection of the welder’s visual organs. The performance of the filter is also determined by the intensity of its use. So, for professional welders, the response time should be no higher than 50 ms.

The next stage of selection is to analyze the specific characteristics of the filter. These include the optical class of the device, the degree of light scattering, the homogeneity class of the light flux and the permissible value of the scattering angle. All specified parameters are indicated on the body of the mask, with each subsequent characteristic separated by a slash from the previous one. At the end of the symbol there is a reference to the main standard (in this case EN379).

All of the above items are required.

What is a chameleon mask?

Unlike a standard shield, the Welding Chameleon takes welder protection to a new level. The principle of operation of such a mask is the polarization of liquid crystals. During provocation, they change direction and interfere with the effects of ultraviolet radiation. Masks in the expensive price segment use multi-layer protection, this ensures the most uniform darkening. And an additional filter provides blocking of infrared radiation.

The helmet has built-in sensors that detect the arc and provide constant eye protection. The entire structure is enclosed in a block, which is protected on both sides with the help of plastic light filters. You can carry out related work (with a grinder, a hammer) without removing the protective helmet from your head. Plastic filters require replacement over time, as they are consumables. The key point of the protective process is the speed at which the light filter operates. The response time of professional models is 1 millisecond.

The protective properties of a chameleon directly depend on the ambient temperature. If the temperature is below minus 10 degrees, the operation of the filter slows down. Conscientious manufacturers indicate the maximum operating temperature in the product data sheet. Adjustments can be made during the workflow. The buttons are conveniently located and easy to operate with tactile contact.

It is important to know! The mask must be stored in a heated room, otherwise its service life will be reduced.

What does the market offer?

All welding helmets available on the tool market can be divided into three groups based on price-quality ratio:

The cheapest, but with a very wide range of product quality fluctuations. Often they do not have certificates. These are mainly made in Taiwan or China.
More expensive and quite high quality. They have proper Russian certificates. These are products from domestic manufacturers or South Korea.
The most expensive and high-quality welding helmets are chameleon. As stated in the reviews of those who chose them - with a high degree of reliability. They have all the necessary documents. These are masks produced in European countries or under the direct control of European manufacturers (for example, TECHMEN or SPEEDGLAS).

In any case, no matter how expensive and outwardly reliable the mask may look, if during operation the eyes become irritated or a burning sensation appears, then this mask is not suitable for use. Her filter needs replacing.

How to choose

Light filters for welding masks can be selected by marking. It has 4 digits. Each of them characterizes a certain indicator.

Optical class number. Determines the clarity of the image through the filter.
Level of light scattering. As the value of the number increases, the image received by the eyes deteriorates, the picture becomes cloudy. Best seen with marking value 1.
The level of darkness and the uniformity of its distribution over all glass surfaces.
Angular dependence of darkening, its degree when rotated by 15⁰.

Welding glass markings indicate how well the arc will be visible and the degree of eye protection while welding, including turning your head slightly.