Fume extraction helmets, also known as Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) helmets, are a type of welding helmet that incorporates an air filtration system. These helmets are designed to protect welders from inhaling harmful fumes and gases produced during the welding process.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do welding helmets protect from fumes?

Yes, If they are equipped with fume extraction system!

Fume extraction helmets typically consist of the following components:

• Helmet shell: This protects the welder's head and face from heat, sparks, and spatters.
• Auto-darkening lens: This lens automatically darkens when exposed to welding light, protecting the welder's eyes.
• Air filtration unit: This unit houses a filter that removes fumes and gases from the air.
• Breathing tube: This tube connects the air filtration unit to the helmet and supplies clean air to the welder.
• Airflow regulator: This allows the welder to adjust the amount of airflow into the helmet.

Who needs a fume extraction helmet?

Fume extraction helmets are essential for any welder who works in an environment with high concentrations of airborne contaminants. These contaminants can include:

• Welding fumes: These fumes can contain a variety of metals and other toxins, which can cause respiratory problems, lung cancer, and other health problems.
• Ozone: Ozone is a gas that is produced during the welding process. It can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat.
• Carbon monoxide: Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be fatal if inhaled in high concentrations.

What are the benefits of using Fume extraction helmets?

Here are some of the benefits of using a fume extraction helmet:

• Improved respiratory protection: Fume extraction helmets provide a much higher level of respiratory protection than traditional welding helmets.
• Increased comfort: The constant flow of clean air can help to keep the welder cool and comfortable.
• Reduced fatigue: By reducing exposure to harmful fumes and gases, fume extraction helmets can help to reduce welder fatigue.

What are welding helmet consumables/spare parts and accessories?

• Helmet shell: This protects the welder's head and face from heat, sparks, and spatters. It is usually made of a heat-resistant and impact-resistant plastic.
• Auto-darkening lens: This lens automatically darkens when exposed to welding light, protecting the welder's eyes. The shade level of the lens can be adjusted depending on the type of welding being done.
• Air filtration unit:This unit houses a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter that removes fumes and gases from the air. HEPA filters can trap particles as small as 0.3 microns, which is much smaller than the width of a human hair. Some PAPR helmets may also include pre-filters to extend the life of the HEPA filter by capturing larger particles.
• Breathing tube: This tube connects the air filtration unit to the helmet and supplies clean air to the welder. The breathing tube is usually made of a flexible material that allows the welder to move around freely.
• Airflow regulator: This allows the welder to adjust the amount of airflow into the helmet. Having proper airflow is important for comfort and ensuring a steady supply of clean air.
• Battery: The battery powers the fan that draws air through the filter and into the helmet. The battery life will vary depending on the model of helmet and the airflow setting.
• Headgear: The headgear suspends the helmet comfortably on the welder's head and allows for adjustability to ensure a good fit.