Testing the BOC auto darkening welding helmets.

Testing the BOC auto darkening welding helmets

BOC is marketing two new welding helmets, the "Switch" and the "Auto-Tracker".
The Switch helmet uses a small switch to quickly and easily change the shade protection level from 10 to 11. The helmet incorporates solar cells which means that an on/off switch and change of battery are no longer required. The helmet automatically darkens within a fraction of a second to the correct level of protection with one ignition.
The Auto-Tracker helmet is an upmarket version of the Switch. The advantage of this is the operator can set the helmet to his individual requirement. When selecting manual operating mode the shade level setting can be selected using a slide switch.
In automatic mode intelligent sensors automatically adjust the shade level intensity to that of the arc. In manual operation mode the shade can be set by turning the knob.
When selecting shade level in manual mode, shade levels in a range of 9 to 13 can be selected by turning the small knob. In automatic mode the shade level corresponds to standard EN379 when knob is set to ?N?. By turning the knob the automatically set shade level can be increased or decreased depending on personal preference.
There is also a sensitivity knob which allows for an adjustment of the detection system of the welding filter. Another feature is a delay switch that allows an adjustment of the reaction time of the filter to become bright again. You can use fast or slow operation. This may sound as though the helmet is complicated to use but, in fact, it is simple. Setting the helmet to your individual requirements only takes about 30 seconds.
Both helmets are well designed and comfortable to wear. They are excellent to use on all electric welding operations although panel beaters would only be MIG welding in all positions.
When I was using the Auto-Tracker, my welding improved considerably as I could see the weld pool all the time with no glare around the weld. I wear glasses and the helmet fits on my head without touching my glasses which is a strong point. Several of our students tried these helmets and when I asked them what they thought they said the helmets were "mad". I am told that this means fantastic, which, in turn means excellent. It depends which decade you come from.
In summing up I found these helmets are easy to use and well made. They certainly make welding a pleasure.
I am very impressed by these helmets. Their design and functions are excellent.

FACT FILE
Supplier: BOC Limited
Product: BOC auto-darkening welding helmets
Contact: Phone 131 262