⛓ Welding Mask "Chameleon": the choice of a suitable model

Welding Mask "Chameleon" - a choice for those engaged in welding at the amateur and professional level. It reliably protects the eyes and at the same time keep your hands free to work. It is important to choose the right remedy it, because on it depends not only comfortable, but also safe work. How to do it - in this review from HouseChief edition.

Mask with electronic light filter - the modern way to protect the welder

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1 The operating principle of the Chameleon
2 The design of the mask
3 Features of filters
4 On the advantages and disadvantages of "Chameleon" mask
5 How to choose a welding mask "Chameleon"
- 5.1 Optical class and viewing window
- 5.2 Temperature range and arc sensors
- 5.3 Settings and Power Supply
6 Basics Chameleon adjustment
7 Browse popular models of "Chameleon" masks

The operating principle of the Chameleon

The principle of polarization has replaced the primitive and the most convenient to use a glass filter. How does the Chameleon: light polarizing liquid crystals, which block access to harmful radiation for eyes.

In good models of such masks have several layers of crystals that give a uniform dimming

Furthermore, "Chameleon" masks additionally equipped with UV and infrared filter.

To ensure fast response to radiation, a mask built-in sensors which are responsive to the arc. These sensors and the electronic assembly constitute a block that has adjustable settings. Adjustment is carried out by hand, without removing the mask.

The design of the mask

Externally, the Chameleon is not much different from the conventional mask. The housing looks the same as that of the device with glass filters. The main difference is the presence of a light filter, boards with adjustments and batteries that provide electronic assembly work.

In normal mode, the mask inspection window protects the anti-glare film.

You can work in a mask with a grinder or sander just for eye and face protection from mechanical damage by fine particles

Once you start working with weldingSensors capture arc radiation and in ten-thousandths of a second control signal fed to the block polarization crystals. And, the brighter the flash, the stronger polarization and darker screen. After extinction of the arc, the screen returns to the bright state with a certain delay, the duration of which can be adjusted manually.

Features of filters

The most significant indicator of work "Chameleon" mask - speed automatic response filter. It was on this occasion, you can often find the discussion about the effectiveness of this remedy. Opponents complain electronic devices that split second eye still is adversely affected by a bright flash.

Default dark glass filters, and they are not subjected to such danger welder

If we talk not about the cheap models, and a more or less professional devices, the operation takes place for a millisecond. But there is a caveat: in sub-zero temperature, this interval is increased. That is, the limit of safe operation of such a mask is organic -10 ° C air temperature.

Note! Responsible manufacturers always point to the documentation mask temperature range for welding.

And one more nuance filters: the device must be stored in a heated room to extend its service life

Filters Chameleon performed according to European standard EN379. He stated in the technical documentation. After his designation are four digits by a fraction:

The first class indicates an optical filter, which determines the clear designation of objects. Highest optical class designated unit;
the second digit indicates the transparency of the color filter. The higher it is, the more turbid the screen;
the third speaks of the darkening uniformity;
and the last, the fourth - the distortion level. The optimal indicator in this regard - 2.

On the advantages and disadvantages of "Chameleon" mask

Like any device, the "Chameleon" mask has its drawbacks, and they should be aware of. The first user is called a relatively high cost.

Good mask will cost 2 thousand rubles. You can buy cheaper versions of Chinese origin, but it is better not to risk

And one more nuance about which we have already mentioned - the one millisecond, which is given on the operation of the control unit.

The rest - some advantages. First of all, it is very convenient that you can adjust the mask to the peculiarities of their vision and work conditions. You can adjust the density of the filter and there is no need to constantly pull the mask up and down or hold her hand.

Hands in the work are completely free, and the mask securely protects the face not only of the arc, but also against sparks and gases

How to choose a welding mask "Chameleon"

Note: Masks of the welder can have an additional set of filters. She herself is made from materials that do not carry currents and splash resistant, and radiation.

The masks are made of domestic production of fiber and durable plastic, can be found leather mask.

Devices known manufacturers have a unique and attractive design

What to look for when choosing the protective device? There are a few important parameters: the weight of the mask, its dimensions, the ability to fit the size of the head, the availability and quality of the diopter optical filters. If you protects your eyes, buy only certified products do not get fooled by the tempting Cheap.

Optical class and viewing window

The most convenient is the mask with as large viewing window. Typical devices have a window size of 90 × 40 mm, but there are also those in which size reaches 130 × 60 mm.

Remember: the larger the window, the heavier mask, so you need to find the optimum dimensions and weight option

If you rarely work with welding, can be purchased relatively heavy mask. But if apparatus used regularly, it is better to sacrifice the size of the viewing window in favor of relief.

Another important parameter for the selection - class optical filter. About labeling it has been said above, we can only remind you that the best choice is a combination of 1/1/1/2.

Temperature range and arc sensors

The wider the temperature amplitude of the use, the more you have a chance to work.

Additionally, useful additions will be grinding modes, the ability to self-test, information buttons and counters welding duration.

The more the mask arc set of sensors, the more reliable filter operation and less likelihood of uncontrolled failure

If you argon welding machine, you need to mask up to 4 sensors.

Note! If the documentation indicates that the mask is designed to work with argon welding, so it can be used with other types of welding machines: Semi-automatic and electrode.

Settings and Power Supply

Masks "Chameleon" are sold with built-in and interchangeable power supply. The latter is much more convenient when its life is over, you can simply buy a new one, without changing the entire mask. The power source can be batteries, which are charged from the mains and solar panels. The best choice would be a device in which there are both types of charging.

Quality masks are setting the degree of dimming. You can adjust the sensitivity of the sensor by itself, and time to return to normal.

Modern masks all adjustments smooth, step - an indication of outdated technology

Basics Chameleon adjustment

How to adjust the protective device is usually described in detail in the instructions. Before you get started, explore it. There are regulations, the validity of which is better not to check empirically in order to avoid eye injuries.

The new mask has a protective film that protects the filter from damage during transport. They need to be removed.

Important! Before working necessarily calibratable integrity loop connecting the control unit and the filter.

Setting masks begin to fit under helmet head sizes. The mask should be lowered and raised, being fixed firmly in position. A locking nut is adjustable and the inclination of the device in the working position

Use bright to check the setting of sensors lamp. If the filter is dark, it means that the sensors are operating normally. dimming level is controlled depending on the operating mode.

The control algorithm is described in the video material:

Browse popular models of "Chameleon" masks

When choosing a mask, pay attention not only on the technical characteristics declared by the manufacturer, but also on customer feedback. Usually it is in them, you can find an objective assessment of the quality of the instrument. Here are a few popular models that are in demand:

Model	Benefits	disadvantages	The average cost, rubles. (As of May 2019)
Resanta MS-4	Reliable protection of persons, a high reaction rate, replaceable battery, light weight, high degree of dimming, a wide temperature range of operation	Plastic adjustment bolts	1090

~~MC-4 Mask Resanta~~

Model	Benefits	disadvantages	The average cost, rubles. (As of May 2019)
Fubag Ultima 11	Highly sensitive sensors, two arc sensor, large screen, two kinds of charging, light weight, high rate filter	It can not be used for laser and oxyacetylene welding	2060

~~Mask Fubag Ultima 11~~

Model	Benefits	disadvantages	The average cost, rubles. (As of May 2019)
Fubag Ultima 5-13 Panoramic Black	Large viewing area, 4 sensor, smooth adjustment, wide temperature range, shock-resistant housing	Weight 0.5 kg, external adjustment degree of darkening filter	4850

~~Mask Fubag Ultima 5-13 Panoramic Black~~

Model	Benefits	disadvantages	The average cost, rubles. (As of May 2019)
ESAB Sentinel A50	Resistance to mechanical and chemical influences, excellent ventilation and 5 positions of the headband, the availability of interchangeable lenses, the use of all types of weldingTwo types of charging	Weight 640 g	20500

~~Mask ESAB Sentinel A50~~

Model	Benefits	disadvantages	The average cost, rubles. (As of May 2019)
MS-400 Interskol	Suitable for electric and gas welding, shock-resistant housing, lightweight, replaceable protective glass, convenient location sensors	A small adjustment range dimming, extra neck protection	2180

~~MS-400 mask Interskol~~

What kind of mask you use? If you have experience in the use of this protective device, share it in the comments!