Plasma Mask

[Rick]

Hello,

I've always used my welding mask when plasma cutting, but having it on the lightest shade (8) i think it is, to be honest i hardly ever do freehand work usually just use it on straight etc. But I need to follow a line on the next job.

What the best way to do it. I don't like the idea of not using a mask at all but my shade 8 mask won't cut it. I've got an old Speedglass, which you can turn off so it'll be whatever shade that it is when its off. 2-3 at a guess. But the lense is pretty scratched so i'd rather buy new.

I don't plasma cut a lot, but don't mind spending... i like my eyes!

 

[astro_al]

The 'right' shade depends on your plasma and the amps you're running at.

I use shade 5 glasses (you can find them everywhere), but I could do with a shade 6. For home workshop type plasmas a shade 5 is about right, maybe a shade 3 - also widely available.

Hypertherm do a shade 8 mask, but its really too dark for most plasma use.

Al.

 

[Rick]

The 'right' shade depends on your plasma and the amps you're running at.

I use shade 5 glasses (you can find them everywhere), but I could do with a shade 6. For home workshop type plasmas a shade 5 is about right, maybe a shade 3 - also widely available.

Hypertherm do a shade 8 mask, but its really too dark for most plasma use.

Al.

Yeah forgot to mention the amps... I don't know them, its a lincoln machine and 240 volt, probably be fine with a 4/5.

 

[gavuk]

I use a cheap gas cutting face shield,changed a clear screen to green

 

[Robotstar5]

We use something similar to this with a tinted band over the top third, sorry can't find a link to the exact model

 

[gavuk]

Same thing I use Stu ,except i use a total green screen in the carrier

 

[Wozzaaah]

Any auto mask will do, just cover the sensors to stop it reacting and it stays in it's light shade which is ideal for low amp plasma cutting.
Glasses work ok but they won't stop the hot bits which get fired at quite high speed and are magnetically attracted to the soft skin of your face so if you're using those, wear a clear shield as well.

 

[chunkolini]

I just wear a clear face shield and have never had a problem.
I had not used to bother even with this, then one day I had a spark burn my eye lid quite badly. A near miss.

Chunko'.

 

[Mad Mick]

Hi All,
Indeed Chunko,I learned exactly the same way........never again!
Regards,Mick

 

[shenion]

As woz says, i just tape over the sensors and use my auto mask.

 

[Rick]

Good idea, i'll do it on the inside of an old mask so I can leave it on.

 

[Hitch]

Not used it much at work, keep this one at home, but reckon it would be perfect for Plasma....

http://www.hisltd.co.uk/Esab-Globe-Arc-Flip-Up-Lens.html

 

[Rick]

That looks a nice mask for the money.

 

[Hitch]

Its alright, headband isnt the best, a silly flap thing broke on mind, but it made no difference to it.