Another Starparts query

[andy m]

I have a Starparts V1 helmet, started my C & G course last night, may sound stupid but struggling to see much around the weld, maybe it's me ? The first of 5 welds we need to do for the test sounds easy and I'm sure it is , 3 beads app 130mm long 10mm apart on a piece of 8mm plate 50mm wide. To weld 2 pieces together you can see where you are going welding them, just to run beads on plate seems harder. I don't get practice enough at present other than college time. Annoying thing was I produced 3 welds on a plate 200mm long which would have been a pass but could not be accepted due to being 200mm long.
Are there better helmets or do they all do the same at the end of the day ??

 

[BrokenBiker]

I had exactly the same problem with my auto dark. it wasn't so bad with MMA I could just about see the puddle and it was abit easier with a joint to follw but as soon as I started using the mig I couldn't make anything out. no puddle, no parent material, no joint or chalk lines. nothing.

I opted to change for a constant shade 10 lens and it is perfect. granted I cant see exactly where I am striking an arc with MMA but its not that hard to get it in place and then flick the mask down and strike.

I can now see everything. the puddle is clear, the material is clear, joins or chalk line are clearly visible and my welding has generally improved greatly since changing, even in low light conditions, or in bright sunlight.

maybe an option worth looking at. the helmets and lenses are quite cheap and if you find you cant get on with it then you can always sell it on again

 

[andy m]

Mmmm I was wondering if it was me, maybe try different lenses ?? I remember mma was easier, also easier to weld 2 pieces due to it being easier to follow. Thanks.