Welders frequently experience respiratory problems due to the harmful and dangerous welding gases in the air, leading to various illnesses. PAPR (Powered Air Purifying Respirator) systems are designed to address this issue.
Traditional helmets can’t save you from welding fumes. For safe breathing, Air Fed welding helmets with built-in respiratory systems are equipped with motorized air purification. They have significant components that require a great deal of attention to detail.
To find the best PAPR welding helmet, you must consider several factors and features, from build quality to the price range covered in this guide. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our detailed guide to the best Air Fed welding helmets with built-in respirator reviews.
Best Air Fed Welding Helmet with Built-in Respirator: Quick Comparison
| Products | Dimensions (inches) | Weight (lbs.) | Levels of Shade | Battery Support (Hours) |
| 3M Speedglas G5-01 | 21.7 x 13.7 x 11.1 | 4.7 | 8-13 | 8-10 |
| Optrel Crystal 2.0 | 14 x 14 x 10 | 1.01 | 4-12 | 10+ |
| Miller Electric T94i-R | 12 x 12x 10 | 2.2 | 8-13 | Up to 8 |
| Lincoln Black Viking 3350 | 13 x 10.5x 10 | 3.20 | 5-13 | Up to 8 |
| TywelMaster 9B-PAPR | 11.81 x 7.87 x 7.87 | 1.1 | 9-13 | Up to 8 |
| ArcOne SR500 | 18 x 10.5 x 11.5 | 1.23 | 9-13 | 12-14 |
| Jackson Safety 40839 | 16.25 x 14.25 x 10.5 | 8.9 | 9-13 | 8-10 |
| Allegro 9935 | 20.5 x 17.5 x 12.75 | 3 | 4-16 | 8+ |
| Adflo3M Welding helmet | 21.6 x 12.6 x 11.1 | 11.6 | 8-13 | 8-10 |
| Optrel E3000X PAPR | 8.1 x 14.5 x 12.5 | 1.8 | 8-12 | 10+ |
| 3M Adflo HE System | 21.75 x 12.62 x 11.25 | 1.0 | 8-13 | 8-10 |
| Weltek Airfed Welding Helmet | 18.11 x 12.6 x 10.24 | 8.38 | 8-13 | 10-12 |
12 Best PAPR Welding Helmets Reviews
1. 3M Speedglas G5-01
We can’t start our best Air Fed welding helmet with built-in respirator review without putting 3M on top. The company has been producing high-quality welding helmets for more than a decade. The legendary 9100 series came out almost 12 years ago and was quite popular for some time.
3M has been working tirelessly since then and came up with some creations worth mentioning. The Speedglas G5-01 is a durable and high-quality welding helmet that offers everything you need to save yourself from toxic welding fumes.
Adflo Respirator System
The Speedglas G5-01 is equipped with an Adflo PAPR respirator, which makes it a top-of-the-line kit. This respirator has a stackable filtering system that allows you to customize your gear to your needs.
You can use simple, fresh air filtration to remove harmful particles or stack numerous types of filtration devices to protect against various vapor and welding fumes.
Efficient Airflow and Wide Viewport
The helmet features a cutting-edge airflow optimization technology that you can customize based on your needs. Using this approach, you can improve the airflow on the visor, face, and all other engaged regions of your face.
The helmet includes a wide viewport that is also slightly curved for a more comprehensive view of your surroundings rather than just the front view.
Tack Welding Mode and Adflow PAPR
This welding helmet features a tack welding mode that allows you to change the reaction time of the shade level. The Adflow PAPR can reroute airflow for improved comfort throughout the day. It also has auto-on/off technology for enhanced performance.
- Bluetooth connectivity and auto shut down feature
- The highly efficient filtration system
- Customizable shade settings and resistance to heat
- Leather-made neck and headcover
- A bit pricey
- Users have complained about unwanted reflections
2. Optrel Crystal 2.0
This Air Fed welding helmet comes with the e3000x PAPR system and Optrel’s Sphere Series Crystal 2.0 to create a high-end professional welding kit for hazardous settings. It’s pretty popular in the aircraft industry because of its small size, which allows it to fit into tight spaces.
Comfortable and Offers Maximum Protection
When it comes to comfort, we can state that you can wear it all day without facing any discomfort. It’s incredibly light and compact with a highly efficient airflow system.
The PAPR system also has a TH3 safety grade, which means it is incredibly safe. You’ll be safe from any harmful fumes and even viruses in the air. This virus protection will also save you from the COVID-19.
Auto-dark Feature and Built-in Grind Mode
This is one of the unique features of the Optrel Crystal 2.0 that we loved! It can sense the working environment and detect the level of shade you might need for optimum protection. The 2.0 Lightshade will provide you safety along with the best clarity and color.
Another exquisite feature is the grind mode that will prove to be useful while welding. You don’t have to remove the helmet for grinding anymore, you can just switch the settings to grind while you do it.
18-Hour Support and Heat Resistance
2 Lithium-ion batteries that it comes with will provide 18-hour of uninterrupted support while you work. It also comes with solar cells that work as an added benefit for the power source. High resistance to heat can save you from 220 degrees C temperature!
- Compact and extremely lightweight
- Comfortable headband and 4-12 levels of shade
- Twilight function and maximum eye protection
- Customizable sensors and IsoFit headgear
- The grind button tends to get damaged
3. Miller Electric T94i-R
Our journey of finding the best PAPR welding helmet wouldn’t be complete without exploring the fantastic features offered by the T94i-R by Miller Electric. The company is renowned for producing excellent welding helmets with highly efficient PAPR respirators.
Futuristic Design and Flip-up Faceplate
The T94i-R has a design that comes with InfoTrack 2.0 statistics system. It can record events for reliable timekeeping. This futuristic welding helmet comes with a flip-up faceplate that can be removed. It’s designed to work in industrial environments where you might need maximum protection and comfort.
Wide Viewport and Grind Shield
Miller Electric tried its best to meet the industry standard with this magnificent device. It comes with a 9 sq. inches viewport, which is more than adequate to perform any welding task. It also has a grind shield with a 180-degree view. 4 different arc sensors make the device highly efficient and worth trying.
99.97% Purification and Innovative Blowing Unit
The welding helmet is equipped with a HEPA filter that can filter out mists, metal fumes, and dust particles. A pre-filter is installed to increase the efficiency of the HEPA filter. The whole filtration system can ensure 99.97% purification with maximum protection.
The blowing unit provides enough airflow suitable for any welding environment. You can alter the airflow as you need based on your working environment. Also, you’ll be alerted by a vibrating alarm in noisy surroundings. What more could you want from a welding helmet!
- Comfortable design with quick-release belt
- Adjustable airflow with debris protection
- It comes with a grind shield and spark guard
- Durable headgear with HEPA filtration system
- The adapter to the hard hat is a bit difficult to adjust
4. Lincoln Black Viking 3350
Just like the Vikings, this Black Viking welding helmet from Lincoln is solid and sturdy. It’s a comprehensive system that cleanses ambient shop air and continuously supplies filtered, breathable air for up to eight hours.
Clear Vision and 4C Technology
Viking 3350 has a viewing surface of 3.74′′ x 3.34′′, which is quite large. You need to see as much as you can while you’re welding through your helmet. But, having only a wide viewport is not enough. You need to have a clear vision.
And this is where the Viking 3350 stands out with its 4C technology that helped feature a crystal clear lens.
High-powered Battery and 1/25,000 Switching Speed
The CR-2450 battery it comes with is solar-powered and enough to provide 8 hours of uninterrupted support. The battery is cheap and easy to replace. The ADF circuit ensures maximum performance by helping to achieve more power.
Lincoln Viking 3350 comes with a 1/25,000 switching speed which will prevent eye fatigue. The helmet is equipped with a slow switching feature to work for long without straining your eyes.
HEPA Filter and Natural Color
The Viking 3350 comes with an industry-grade K930-1 PAPR system and HEPA filter that offer maximum protection. It can filter out 99% of toxic fumes and particles from the air and even remove debris that is 0.3 microns in size.
With a 1/1/1/1 grade of optical clarity and a Natural Color system, you’ll get clear vision with true colors.
- Adjustable airflow system with multiple points
- 12.5 sq. inches viewport with true colors
- Durable headgear and LED display
- 8-9 hours of continuous usage with adjustable speed system
- A bit heavier compared to other welding helmets
>>>Lincoln Viking 3350 Vs Miller Digital Elite<<<
5. TywelMaster 9B-PAPR
This welding helmet from TywelMaster is an excellent choice for professional welders who work in a challenging environment. It’s equipped with maximum optical clarity and the widest viewport. The welding helmet is perfect for any heavy industrial operation.
Compact Design and Broad Viewport Range
Due to its compact and lightweight design, the helmet is extremely comfortable to wear for a long time. It’ll prevent your eyes from straining and won’t make your neck hurt like heavy welding helmets.
As you get 9-13 levels of shades, you can switch to your preferred optical system based on your working environment. Also, the auto-darkening feature will adjust the viewport by sensing the surroundings.
Portable PAPR and Additional Lens
The PAPR system can be removed from the helmet, and you can use it in any other helmet you want. Just remove the screws and install it in another helmet, and you’re good to go! The additional lens it comes with provides increased protection. It offers the lowest light shade any welding helmet could provide.
Overhead Protection and Increased Filtration Function
The sturdy and durable build quality of the helmet offers the maximum overhead protection that you might need. The lightweight design doesn’t let the product compromise durability. You can use it for any welding tasks from medium to heavy operation.
HEPA and additional filters ensure efficient filtration and filter out all types of solid particles and toxic fumes. It will save you from any harmful debris for as long as you need in your workstation.
- Activated carbon-made filters
- Removable PAPR system and overhead protection
- Increased battery life and universal adapter
- Suitable for heavy industrial operations
- Airflow system could be more efficient
6. ArcOne SR500
The best Air Fed welding helmet with built-in respirator should be equipped with ANSI Z87 passed features. And this is what the SR500 from ArcOne offers you with many other additional features. The PAPR system is also OSHA-approved which provides a maximum filtration system. Overall, a welding helmet couldn’t be better than this in terms of operation!
Increased Filtration and Durable Build Quality
The SR500 from ArcOne is equipped with a digital filter of 5500V that ensures maximum protection from all types of harmful gases and solid particles in the air. It will save the welder’s lungs and will also increase productivity through its added benefits.
The welding helmet is highly durable, as the company has invested in its lifespan and ability to function under the most adverse conditions. In the price range that it comes, it’s one of the most compact and lightweight helmets you can find, along with robust build quality.
Hard Hat and Useful User Manual
The SR500 puts a top priority on saving your head and face. The hard hat that the helmet comes with will protect you when you’re grinding. It meets all the safety regulations that are recommended.
The user manual will help you to learn how to set up the helmet and operating additional functions. Unlike other companies, ArcOne gave a lot of effort in preparing the manual, which you can understand once you read it.
Digital Filter and Efficient Respirator
Due to the digital filter equipped in the helmet, your viewing area will increase, which is absent in many welding helmets. The flip-down visor will also be proved to be quite effective while you work with something that needs attention to detail.
A high-quality respirator is installed in the helmet that filters the air continually. It ensures that you never have to breathe in any debris generated from the surroundings.
- Loose-fitting and comfortable design
- Flip-down grinding and welding visor
- Adjustable sensors with improved filtration system
- Widened viewport with optimum clarity
- A bit pricey
7. Jackson Safety 40839
Jackson is a reliable and popular brand that consistently exceeds customer expectations by including incredible features and benefits in its products. The 40839 welding helmet produced by Jackson Safety is a sign of their dedication and research.
Rounded Design and Auto-darkening Feature
One of the fantastic features that we found while using the helmet was its rounded design. As it can deflect a lot of impacts, you can use it in any small working environment. You can simply tilt your head down and expand your vision due to the outward curvature.
The auto-darkening feature is another added benefit that will prevent your eyes from getting strained. The viewing shade will adjust automatically depending on the surroundings.
Smart Power Management and BH3 Respirator
Jackson Safety 40839 comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that will run for more than 8 hours with a single charge. There’s an indicator on the helmet that will show the charge level while you work. The smart power management system will save the battery from overcharging as well.
To filter out the harmful fumes and any solid particles, there’s no better filtration system than the BH3 respirator. It’ll keep you safe from any debris generated by the welding tasks for 8 long hours.
Versatile Applications and Powerful Blower
The large viewing area and all other added features make this helmet suitable for a wide range of tasks. Depending on your requirements, it’s ideal for grinding, edging, cutting, and other welding operations.
It also comes with Airmax Elite PAPR that has a powerful blower. It can reduce the temperature. It will keep you cool and comfortable for as long as you work.
- Suitable for both professionals and beginners
- Maximum optical clarity with auto-darkening feature
- 8-hour of battery support with overcharging safety
- Airmax Elite BH3 PAPR system and wider viewport
- Users complained of sudden glares
8. Allegro 9935
If you’re looking for something sturdy and durable that can work both as a welding helmet and shield, then the 9935 from Allegro is the one you need. It can endure a high amount of pressure due to its robust build quality.
High Airflow and HEPA Filter
The helmet comes with increased airflow, which is enough to keep you safe in any welding environment. It’ll keep you comfortable and relaxed in high-temperature welding stations while you work.
The HEPA filter that it comes with ensures maximum protection against harmful gases and any debris generated from welding tasks. The HEPA filter is NIOSH-approved which provides its efficiency in performance.
Auto-darkening Feature and Sturdy Nylon Shell
Not only the welding helmet has a widened viewport, but it also has an auto-darkened feature that provides maximum clarity. It will adjust the viewing area depending on the surroundings. The grinding shield and flip-up cover can be proven to be useful while you perform any grinding task.
The outer shell is made with nylon which is sturdy but lightweight. You won’t feel any discomfort while using it for a long time because of the comfortable build structure. Also, the helmet comes with a lower gauntlet and a drawstring that will cover any exposed place of your neck.
99.97% Filtration and High-powered Blower
Although the helmet comes with a single filter, it doesn’t compromise the filtration system. With 99.97% purification quality, it will ensure that you don’t have to inhale any toxic particles from the air.
Along with that, a high-powered blower is included, which has 8 different fan settings. You can decrease or increase the speed based on your needs.
- Auto-darkening and anti-fog feature
- Lightweight and compact design with nylon outer shell
- ABS blower with adjustable fan settings
- NIOSH-approved HEPA filter
- Feels a bit heavy around the neck
9. Adflo 3M Welding Helmet
If you don’t want to compromise on safety while looking for the best PAPR welding helmet, then the Adflo Powered helmet is the one you should check out. Both its exterior and interior are made of industrial-grade materials, which make it quite sturdy.
Comfortable Design and Versatile Use
The ergonomic design helped the helmet to be compact and comfortable to wear for a long time. You can adjust the head suspension just the way you need and make it perfect for you.
Another excellent feature of this helmet is its versatility. You can use this welding helmet for various welding tasks, including edging and grinding. It comes with a grind shield that allows you to keep working without removing the helmet.
ANSI-approved Shield and NIOSH-approved Respirator
The face shield is ANSI-approved which ensures that it follows all the safety standards that are required. Wider viewport and clear vision will help you work with comfort and ease for as long as you can.
The respiratory system in this helmet is NIOSH-approved and can filter all kinds of solid particles and toxic gases. Along with the built-in respirator, the helmet comes with a HEPA filter that won’t let you inhale any fumes and keep the air clean for breathing.
Flip-up Visor and ABS Blower
The helmet might seem a bit bulky compared to other lightweight helmets produced by 3M. But, you have to keep in mind that it comes with double-hood, which increases the safety it provides. Also, the visor has a flip-up feature which makes it easier to use.
Due to the ABS technology, the blower doesn’t weigh much but generates enough airflow to keep inside cool and comfortable. You can adjust the fan’s speed as you need and keep working for more than 8 uninterrupted hours.
- Widened viewport with double-hood
- Ergonomic design and sturdy face shield
- Built-in respirator with additional HEPA filters
- Adjustable suspensions and versatile use
- Might feel a bit heavy and bulky
10. Optrel E3000X PAPR
This is yet another wonderful creation of Optrel with the E3000X PAPR system. It offers maximum safety features with an efficient respirator. The helmet comes with a face seal and TH3 filter for optimum performance.
Plug-and-Play Feature and Optimum Clarity
Unlike many other welding helmets, the Optrel E3000X won’t take much of your time setting up. You just have to unpack the device, plug it in, and see it working. It’s among the helmets that are most easy to use.
Along with the plug-and-play feature, this welding helmet provides optimum clarity with its face seal. You’ll have a wider viewport with a clear vision that won’t create any hassle while welding.
Auto-darkening Feature and TH3 HEPA Filter
Just like all the other finest welding helmets, the Optrel E3000X comes with an auto-darkening feature. It will adjust the shade automatically based on the surroundings where you’re working. This way, you’ll have a comfortable working experience without getting any eye fatigue.
The HEPA filter it comes with is not only able to filter out any debris in the air, but it’s also TH3-rated. It means that the filter is more efficient than any other filtration system available in other welding helmets.
Adjustable Airflow and Increased Battery-life
The airflow is adjustable with the Clearmaxx technology it’s equipped with. It comes with a rotary switch which has a fantastic feature that many other helmets don’t. The rotary switch can point 20% of the air to your forehead area while you work. This way, you won’t end up having sweats and will feel a cool and breezy environment.
Typical welding helmets can run for around 8 hours with a full charge. But, the Optrel E3000X offers more! It can run for more than 10 hours without any interruption with its smart-powered battery. Isn’t that everything you’ve wanted in a welding helmet?
- Auto-darkened feature with clear face seal
- TH3-rated filtration system with Clearmaxx technology
- Durable headgear and plug-and-play feature
- Efficient FadeTronic and ShadeTronic technology
- The grind button gets easily damaged
11. 3M Adflo HE System
We know we can’t get enough of 3M’s welding helmets! But, this is what 3M does. They produce excellent products to meet their customers’ expectations. And unlike any other typical brand, 3M puts a lot of effort into all of their devices, not just in a few ones.
That’s why this is the 3rd welding helmet we’re reviewing from 3M that has all the great features that the best Air Fed welding helmet with a built-in respirator should have.
Ergonomic Design and Head Suspension
It comes with a comfortable ergonomic design that provides maximum ease of use. Your area of vision will be increased with the side windows. Due to its design, the weight is equally distributed to the whole headgear, which will make it easy to wear the helmet for a long time.
The adjustable head suspension is another added feature of this excellent welding helmet. It improves overall stability and enhances comfort.
NIOSH-approved and ANSI Z87-approved
The filtration system is NIOSH-approved and also meets all the standard protocols of ANSI Z87. It increases the overall performance and ensures that it offers an industry-grade air purification system.
Although it doesn’t come with ADF technology, the filtration performs no less than any other system available in the finest welding helmets. Also, it’s compatible with most of the 3M welding helmets.
Improved Airflow and Versatile Use
The airflow system generates enough air to keep the interior cool and comfortable. You’ll be able to work as long as you want to wear this helmet without any discomfort.
Grind shield allows you to keep working without removing the helmet. And such added benefits make this helmet versatile. You can use it for various types of welding, grinding, and edging.
- Compact and ergonomic design
- Customizable head suspension and improved airflow
- Stable build quality and industry-grade material
- Maximum clarity with widened viewport
- A bit heavier than other helmets
12. Weltek Air Fed Welding Helmet
If you’re tired of working with those shady helmets covered in black, then this is what you’ve been looking for! This is the best Air Fed welding helmet with a built-in respirator that you can find in terms of appearance. The black and red combination is undoubtedly a treat for the eye.
Extended Side Vision and Cordless Blower
Weltek Air Fed helmet is equipped with side windows that will extend your area of vision. You can expand your view by 160 degrees to each side as per your requirement. This will ensure maximum safety as you’ll be aware of your surroundings.
The cordless blower generates an adequate amount of airflow inside the helmet. The airflow system is adjustable, and you can set the fan settings depending on your work.
Increased Battery Power and Arc-sensors
A lithium-ion battery with 4 cells generates higher power and keeps it running for a long time. With a full charge, this helmet will support you for more than 10 hours!
The device also has 4 different arc-sensors that improve the overall efficiency. You’d understand by now that it’s more adequate for arc welding than any other welding helmet.
Grinding System and Two-part Body
The grinding system made by Weltek is built-in, which makes the device versatile. You don’t have to remove the helmet while performing grinding, which is an added benefit.
Weltek Air Fed welding helmet is equipped with a two-part body that consists of a welding mask and a welding lens. You can use the one you need based on the task you perform.
- Versatile use of two body parts
- Less time of switching with 4 sensors of arc
- Extended side vision with optimum clarity
- Improved battery performance with high-quality Air Fed system
- A bit hard to set up
How to Choose the Best PAPR Welding Helmet?
While choosing the best Air Fed welding helmet with a built-in respirator, there are several factors that you need to keep in mind. Your preferred device should be compatible with your work, provide enough energy, be durable and sustainable, and come with a powerful filtration system.
Let’s talk about the factors in detail for choosing the best PAPR welding helmet.
Welding Type
The features of your welding helmet should correspond to the welding task you intend to perform with it. You can then compare your helmet to the protection level you require.
For example, additional sensors may be required for TIG welding. You may need a genuine color viewpoint and customized amperage. For MIG welding, you need a helmet that meets the criteria of ANSI Z87. All of these decisions must be taken before purchasing your helmet.
Build Quality
To get the best Air Fed welding helmet with a built-in respirator, you have to consider the durability and reliability of the product. A durable device will save you from the hassle of replacing or fixing the machine once a month.
Moreover, less durable helmets don’t have much ability to withstand pressure. As a result, several crucial parts in it may not be working without you even knowing it. So, you might be inhaling all the harmful fumes despite wearing the helmet.
For these reasons, you have to find the best PAPR welding helmet with a durable build quality and long-lasting respirator system.
Filtration Ability
You should also be aware of the level of protection that your welding helmet can provide. If there’s no ventilation in your working environment, you need a high-powered and the best Air Fed welding helmet with a built-in respirator.
You can also install additional filters to deal with hazards such as strong odor, inert gas, and welding fumes. Your welding helmet with a built-in respirator must, without a doubt, filter out harmful gases and sift the air more effectively.
The finest welding headgears will be ANSI or OSHA-approved. You might be tempted by aesthetic design and stylish features, but keep in mind that the sole purpose of a welding helmet is to save you from toxic gases.
You can look for helmets with cool designs or paint the outer layer yourself. However, you must be sure that it’s capable of filtering the fumes you are exposed to. So, always choose a welding mask with the best filtration system.
Size and Comfort
Welding helmets are available in various sizes. You have to choose the one that fits you from large, medium, and small. Additionally, make sure that the fit is customizable based on your needs.
When you’re looking for the best Air Fed welding helmet with a built-in respirator, treat comfort as just as crucial a factor as safety. If the helmet isn’t comfortable to wear, you’re bound to get an unpleasant working experience.
You may experience discomfort if you wear these respirators for an extended time. When the workload is heavy, it’s even more crucial to move and breathe easily. To ensure a seamless welding experience, look for a welding helmet with an easily adjustable setup.
Make sure to try out the helmet before you buy it. If you’ve used motorcycle helmets before, you know that their comfort depends on choosing the proper size. Welding helmets are no different as they’re not universal.
Working in an unpleasant environment might be harmful to your health. Furthermore, you will not be able to perform well if you are currently in a stressful scenario. That is why, if you genuinely desire comfort throughout your working session, you must choose the PAPR welding helmet with the proper fit and size.
Airflow and Energy Efficiency
Airflow is a crucial factor that you should never overlook. Welders working in fumes and a cloudy environment, for sure, need to breathe cleaner air. Without a good welding helmet, it becomes nearly impossible. So, you should always opt for something that provides adequate ventilation.
Read the product description and features correctly before you a helmet. Make sure that the airflow it offers is adequate to provide you a safe working environment.
As an added benefit, your welding helmet should be energy efficient. If it’s battery-powered, the helmet should provide enough support for at least a couple of hours to finish a whole welding session.
Modern helmets include a smart power management system. Other functions as sound alerts for filter change are also available in these helmets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are PAPR filters?
PAPR stands for Powered Air Purifying Respirator. They’re produced according to the CDC guidelines. The PAPR filters aim to filter out the toxic fumes created in the air and provide clean air for breathing. These are installed under welding helmets so that welders can save their face and eye and breathe in clean air at the same time.
How long does a PAPR filter might last?
If you’ve opened the filter at least once, it’ll last for around 6 months. If it’s sealed, the filter will last for more than 5 years.
What are ANSI and OSHA?
American National Standards Institute or ANSI is an NGO that sets standards for products’ safety. If a product meets its standards, users can be sure that it’s safe to use.
OSHA stands for Occupational Safety and Health Administration that sets rules to ensure a safe working environment. They inspect workplaces and decide what measures should be taken to make the place safe for workers. OSHA has to approve devices that workers use to make sure they are standard and secure to use for workers.
What gases are produced in welding, and is it bad to inhale welding fumes?
In welding, toxic gases like carbon dioxide, acetylene, butane, carbon monoxide, propane, etc., are produced in welding.
It’s incredibly harmful to inhale welding fumes. Not only it’ll make you feel uncomfortable, but it’ll also affect your lungs and may even lead to lung cancer.
Should I use cheap welding helmets available in the market?
High-quality welding helmets are pretty pricey. You can’t get the components that are used in a good welding helmet at a low price. The PAPR filter alone might cost hundreds of dollars. So, it’s pretty evident that cheap welding helmets will not provide enough support to save you from toxic welding fumes.
Can I wear my glasses under the welding helmet?
It’s always recommended to wear safety goggles under welding helmets. Although the helmets provide maximum protection, you can never be safer. If you require prescribed glasses, you can wear those instead of safety goggles.
What shade should I choose in my helmet for welding?
Any level from 10 to 13 would be enough to save you from sudden flash. These flashes can even burn your eyes if you’re not wearing a safety goggle and your shade isn’t dark enough. The higher the shade level is, the darker it’ll be.
How do I know that my helmet’s lenses are safe for welding?
To find out whether your helmet is working or not, wear it and stand directly under the sun. Look at the sun and see if the viewport starts to get darker. If it does, your helmet is safe for welding.
Additional Read: Best 2X4 Welding Lens
Final Verdict
To choose the best PAPR welding helmet, you have to assess all the features we’ve covered in the buying guide with the features your preferred welding helmet offers. Make sure that the helmet you choose is suitable for the type of work you’re going to do.
If you need something for metal welding or aerospace welding, then the Optrel Crystal 2.0 is the one you need. For automotive welding, TywelMaster 9B-PAPR is a suitable welding helmet.
If budget is an issue, you can choose the Allegro 9935 that offers all the features within an affordable price range. And you should get a Weltek Air Fed welding helmet if you want a helmet with an aesthetic design.
But, as our final verdict, we’d suggest getting the 3M Speedglas G5-01 as it comes with everything that the best Air Fed welding helmet with a built-in respirator should have.
In the end, it all comes down to your requirements and the working environment. So, choose wisely for your safety.
Happy welding!
