Chameleon mask: how to choose, filters, adjustments and what they are for

If you do frequent welding work, you need to take care of high-quality eye protection. A standard shield with a glass filter does not cope with its tasks. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to more modern devices. True, among them there are not entirely reliable models. Let's look at how to choose the right chameleon welding helmet.

Welding helmet chameleon Source prom.st

Safety precautions

Before putting it on, check the settings, operating mode switches, and battery charge.
Always check to see if the filter is getting dark. If it turns off during welding, the protective glass protects the eye to a small extent from IR and UV rays. But it’s safer to stop working immediately. It is dangerous to use a faulty mask. If a defect is found or the filter does not respond, the malfunction is serious and welding cannot be continued. It must be remembered when working that the powerful radiation of the arc and molten electrodes is destructive. In addition to discomfort, this threatens to damage the retina. To prevent loss of vision, it is necessary to correctly adjust the degree of darkening of the filter.

How to fix it yourself

The main question is what is the problem with dimming. Let's see what goes wrong most often. A common defect is that the chameleon mask does not darken the light radiation, and this is its main task.

One of the root causes may be batteries that have zero charge.

The mask has two batteries: standard AA batteries and solar energy, which is powered through a panel in the body. Usually just replacing the battery is enough.

But if replacing the batteries does not help, then you can try charging from solar energy, leaving the mask for a short period in the sun or bright light.

But this is not the main reason and the way to solve it. This is not one of the possible sources of the dimming problem. There may also be a problem with the protective glass. Usually this damage is visible to the naked eye: chips, cracks, abrasions.

The solution to this problem is usually to replace the mesomorphic glass, which is one of the most expensive elements of the mask. But only glass that is completely similar to the previous one will do, watch this carefully.

“If the light filter blinks, check whether the protective glass is dirty. In the worst case, it may be damaged. If it is damaged, the light filter with protective glass must be replaced.”

With such a problem, it is better to contact a specialist rather than deal with it yourself. The service center is here to help you. Of course, this is not the most economical option, but this way you will know that the root cause of the defect has been accurately identified and they know how to eliminate it.

When working with a welding machine, many factors affect vision impairment, which the Chamaleon mask helps prevent, therefore, when using the mask, make sure that the headband is properly secured, make sure there is good lighting, check that there is no protective film on the glass, and monitor the level of darkness.

High and low temperatures often affect the degree of darkening and may be the reason for its delay. The manufacturer warns that at -10C the Chameleon mask may not work correctly.

How to choose a Chameleon mask and how to check it when purchasing

A welder's mask is necessary for everyone who uses welding equipment.

From this article you will learn: how to choose a “Chameleon” welding helmet and how to test it without welding before purchasing, what to look for when choosing and much other useful information

Before purchasing a mask, you should carefully read its passport. Even a very simple mask with an automatic light filter (ASF) has a passport, which indicates its degree of darkness, recommendations for the type of welding (MIG, MAG, MMA, TIG) and the type of battery.

How to choose a welding mask? Read more about all the intricacies of choice further in our article.

How does the Chameleon welding helmet work?

The operating principle of Chameleon welding helmets is based on an automatic light filter that reacts to changes in external lighting. To check the operation of the mask, simply take it and lower it with the light filter down, and then sharply lift it up, towards the sun or towards the light bulb. In this case, you can notice how the light filter immediately works, reducing the amount of external lighting.

The most important things in this case are the response time of the light filter and the degree of its darkening. Here everything depends a lot, both on the type of mask (it can be used for different types of welding) and on the quality of its execution. That is why each Chameleon welding helmet has its own characteristics and features, which can be read below on the MMA welding website mmasvarka.ru.

Mask manufacturers

The bulk is produced in China or Korea, there are both completely unusable products and quite good samples.

For professional welding work, it is worth taking a closer look at European brands. In terms of pricing, they are, of course, more expensive than their Chinese-Korean counterparts, but by purchasing them, you will really get a high-quality mask. It is worth taking a closer look at these companies:

OPTREL.
SPEEDGLAS.
FORTE.
OTOS.
PROTON.
DNIEPER.

Well, of course, you can choose a high-quality mask from domestic manufacturers.

There are also often promotional offers of the following type: buy a welding inverter and receive a chameleon mask as a gift. As a rule, such shields are the cheapest and their origin is rather doubtful. Sometimes professional protection is comparable in cost to the price of a welding machine.

When choosing protective equipment for welding work, you need to set your priorities correctly. Yes, a high-quality mask is a must. But how necessary is it? If you need a shield for periodic repairs in a garage with small-scale welding work, then you can take a cheaper domestic model. For such moments, even a regular welding shield with constant darkness is suitable.

It’s another matter when a mask is needed for constant work, when welding operations are carried out in large volumes. Then the chameleon shield will become a necessary equipment.

Many professionals still make do with shields with regular permanently darkened filters and often recommend them as the best option. But here it’s more a matter of habit, because chameleons create more comfortable working conditions for the welder.

The question of whether you need to purchase a chameleon welding helmet and which one to choose depends on the work that will be carried out, taking into account personal preferences.

What do you think about chameleon masks and their use? If you have experience in their operation, as well as selection, share it in the comments block to our article. Point out the nuances that were missed in this article

What you should pay attention to and which samples are the best, taking into account your personal experience. After all, nothing can replace the advice of a knowledgeable person

Conclusion

Auto-dimming controls exposure to harmful radiation. There is a large selection of shields in this direction: Forte MC-1000, Centaur SM-152, Vitals Professional Thor 2500 LCD...

Don’t forget to check the shield when purchasing so as not to purchase a faulty or defective one. Only in case of minor damage and dimming problems can you carry out repairs yourself.

Such breakdowns include replacing power supplies or protective glass. If the filter breaks down, you should contact a service center, where they will replace it efficiently and quickly.

Light filter for welding helmet

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A light filter is necessary to protect against ultraviolet and infrared radiation during welding. The automatic liquid crystal light filters found in Chameleon masks have many advantages over their simple analogues. The mask does not need to be constantly raised or lowered; thanks to the sensors, the light filter operates quickly and darkens when the arc is ignited, and after finishing the work it brightens. It's practical and safe.

Important!

The Chameleon welding helmet must be stored in a dark room or closet, at normal temperature (not hot or cold). Before use and after use, wipe it and the screen with a clean cloth so that they do not deteriorate.

The Chameleon light filter has a power supply, arc detection sensors, and control capabilities. It is quickly installed in the mask, can be powered by a solar panel or replaceable batteries (depending on the type) and can have 3 types of adjustment.

Adjustment of the degree of darkness. Placed on the outside of the mask or inside.
Adjusting sensitivity (how quickly the dimming is triggered).
Adjustment of the darkening period (long, short or medium).

Light filter for welding helmet Chameleon

Frequently asked questions about the CHAMELEON welding mask

Question: “If the light filter does not close automatically, can your eyes be damaged?”...
Answer: “Excluded.” Even if the filter does not work, it still does not transmit invisible radiation (UV, IR rays), which can seriously damage the retina of the eyes. The maximum that threatens you if the filter is not working is a light flash: unpleasant, but not dangerous. In addition, even when open, the filter has a small degree of darkening (4 DIN), which reduces the brightness of the flash in any case."

Question: “I’m not a professional, and I rarely do welding. Why do I need a chameleon welder mask?

Answer: “Whoever has seen the welding process with a regular mask knows: before you start welding, you DO NOT SEE the welding site, so you have to either work blindly (which is not always possible) or start welding with the mask raised, quickly lowering it. Even professionals can skip the start of welding a couple of times and catch a “bunny,” but what can we say about a person without experience. Therefore, for amateurs and beginners, a chameleon welder mask is especially necessary to avoid damaging the eyes and work normally. After all, health and vision are much more expensive!”

Question: “How often should polycarbonate safety glass be replaced?”

Answer: “Polycarbonate lasts a very long time, protecting the filter from splashes. Unlike plain glass, metal spatters during welding do not stick to it, but simply bounce off. But polycarbonate has its own peculiarity: the hardness of the surface of the plastic is very low, and if you wipe it with a dusty glove, it quickly becomes scratched and becomes cloudy. If you use a damp, clean cloth, then one polycarbonate glass can last the entire life of the mask.”

Question: “How to properly adjust the degree of darkness?”

Answer: “There is a table for setting the degree of darkness - stick to these values during the initial installation. Next, adjust based on your own feelings (see table)"

Question: “Is it possible to work in the dark, because the solar battery

won't charge?

Answer: “The battery does not work from general lighting, but from bright

radiation of the welding arc, and at the beginning of work the power comes from the built-in battery, so the operation of the filter is guaranteed in any general illumination conditions"

Question: “Is there a way to check the filter when purchasing, if not

Is it possible to check it during welding?”

Answer: “Yes, using an ordinary lighter. Set the sensitivity to high and light a fire in front of the mask. The filter should work"

Question: “Is it possible to work with a welder’s mask in winter, in cold weather? What are the features?

Answer: “The response time slows down as the temperature drops. For example, if at +55°C the response time can be 0.08-0.1ms, then at a negative temperature of -5°C it is already 0.5-0.9ms. Therefore, the lowest temperature for the operation of light filters is usually not lower than -10°C below zero. However, if the welder’s mask is not left in an unheated room or outdoors, it can provide normal operation at lower temperatures, being “warmed up” by the heat from the welding arc and the welder during operation.”

Question: “How does a chameleon filter work?”

Answer: “The light filter is made according to the “layer cake” principle, where several layers of liquid crystals are located between polarizing films. When energized, the liquid crystals “align” in a specific direction, thereby blocking some of the polarized light. The first layer of any filter is necessarily a passive “mirror” filter for ultraviolet and infrared radiation.”

Question: “I weld very rarely. How to properly store a welder’s mask so that the battery inside does not discharge?”

Answer: “When the filter is not in use, it is recommended to store it in such a condition that the front part (photocells, light detectors) is not exposed to external light. In this case, the filter is at rest, which increases the service life of the built-in battery and the filter itself. If after long storage the filter does not turn on, very often it can be revived by holding it in bright sunlight for 20-30 minutes.”

www.svaga.ru

Operating the Welding Chameleon

The main requirement for caring for the mask: the light filter must be taken care of: it is easily scratched. Therefore, you cannot put the mask face down. It should only be wiped with a completely clean and soft cloth. If necessary, you can moisten the cloth with clean water. DO NOT wipe with alcohol or any solvents: the filter is covered with a protective film that dissolves in these liquids.

There is one more feature of any welding chameleons: they begin to “slow down” at low temperatures. That is, they operate with a delay, and in both directions - both for darkening and for brightening. This feature is very unpleasant, so you won’t be able to work normally in them in winter, even if the operating temperature is specified as -10°C, as on the TECMEN DF-715S 9-13 TM8. Already at -5° everything cannot darken in time. So in this regard, OTOS turned out to be more honest, indicating the starting operating temperature from -5°C.

Finally, watch the video on how to choose a chameleon mask for welding.

Advantages of the Chameleon mask compared to a conventional welding mask:

The work efficiency of a welder wearing a mask with ASF increases significantly. The worker manages to do more work in the same amount of time. It more accurately controls the welding arc from the very beginning of its combustion and the relative position of the parts during the welding process.
A worker with a “Chameleon” has both hands free during welding. There is no need to wear another mask if you need to perform metalwork work - cut an edge, fit sheets of metal more tightly, clean a seam.
There is no need to change filters, as when working with a regular mask, when the current changes significantly, or when choosing a different welding mode.
The “Chameleon” dims automatically - you don’t need to put on or take off the mask, everything is clearly visible in it.

After weighing all the factors, decide for yourself what is better for you - a regular mask or a “Chameleon”.

Marking of filters

The filter markings indicate the following characteristics:

Degree of darkness.
Optical glass type.
Light scattering indicator.
Uniformity of shading.
Angular dependence.

Darkness level

The main parameter by which glass is selected for certain jobs. Modern filters may use Russian or foreign markings, depending on the manufacturer. Domestic designations range from C1 to C13, but most often glasses with markers from C4 to C8 are used for welding masks.

Glass class	Error indicator
1	0.1 DIN
2	0.2 DIN
3	0.3 DIN

European samples are marked from 7 to 16 DIN, although it is more likely to use filters with a rating from 8 to 14 DIN. The degree of shading is better for glasses with a larger number in the marking.

Solar panels, battery life

Some chameleon welding helmets are designed with a built-in, non-replaceable battery that is charged via a solar auxiliary panel. These helmets often require a charging period in direct sunlight before first use, and a similar charging period if they are stored for a long time, which can be a real problem when you want to start welding work as quickly as possible. The disadvantage of this type of mask is the fact that as soon as the battery wears out, the light filter does not work. It is better to buy a welding helmet in which the filter is powered by a replaceable battery and a solar panel, which allows you to start welding right away. Choose a filter with AAA batteries due to their low replacement cost and worldwide availability. Choose lithium batteries for longer life, but note that lithium batteries are more expensive than regular batteries. The service life of a regular AAA battery is about 2000 hours for MIG/MAG, MMA and other types of welding.

Which one to choose?

In order to buy a model for home and production, special attention should be paid to the following factors

Level of reliability of eye protection. Reflects the darkening parameters of the mask display, calculated in DIN and varies in the corridor from 3 to 15 units.

Additional options mode. After the metal hardens, the darkening should be removed, and the glass of the shield should become as transparent as possible. This allows you to continue the work process without removing PPE from your head. At the same time, the practicality and parameters of retinal protection directly depend on the speed of activation of the sensor. The optimal parameter is considered to be 0.1 s.

Ventilation. Welders are often forced to perform work in poorly ventilated areas, so it is best to choose “chameleon” PPE that provides the possibility of forced ventilation

This will allow workers to protect themselves from toxic fumes of hot metal and smoke generated when the electrodes burn.

The weight of the helmet plays an important role. When adjusted correctly, the headband of the product should not put too much pressure on the worker’s head.

At the same time, lightweight models made from synthetic materials are not able to protect the welder from accidental impacts resulting from falling objects.

Particular attention should be paid to the availability of all documents and certificates confirming the quality of the products. All data must be kept in the public domain and provided upon request

Consumers should be able to review the manufacturer's contact information and warranty terms. If at least one of these points is not met, then the safety of the helmet will be very difficult to confirm.

Obviously, the correct choice of any chameleon welding PPE implies increased safety. For the user, the main factor is to focus on the presence of a diagnostic option and the ability to display all information on the display, so that the worker can check all the design settings.

Certificates for welding helmets

TR TS

makes a random selection of masks

When purchasing a chameleon mask for welding, be sure to require a TR CU certificate. What can you do if there is no certificate for your welding helmet? Just put it back on the display.

DIN

An employee of the DIN Certco accreditation center visits the plant and selects 16 welding filters from the batch. Selected filters are tested in accordance with the requirements of EN 379. If all selected filters pass the tests successfully, a DIN certificate is issued for one year. Devices for measuring all characteristics of the light filter must be available directly from the manufacturer. By the way, measuring devices are also subject to inspection.

After successfully passing the second test, the DIN certificate is valid for 4 years. After 4 years, repeated tests are done, and if successful, a certificate is again given for 4 years, and so on all subsequent times. DIN certification guarantees and confirms the safety of welding filters and a high level of quality.

DIN plus

DINPlus is valid for one year only

Since the first thing is the indispensable availability directly from the manufacturer of rather expensive equipment for testing automatic welding filters. Secondly, this is periodic quality testing by an independent certification center employee. What kind of filter quality can we even talk about when the manufacturer doesn’t even have quality control equipment? Just think about the kind of light filters he makes in his garage.

C.E.

according to regulation 89/686/EWG

Anticipating your question, what can prevent a careless manufacturer from providing one licked light filter for testing and then rivet the CE mark for life, we will answer, most likely, nothing really hinders. Therefore, all well-known manufacturers of welding filters go for more expensive voluntary periodic certification, since without an even more stringent DIN certificate, the sale of chameleon welding masks on the European market is almost impossible. Numerous accreditations and certificates are like awards for a soldier. If you have something to brag about, then why not.

A few more certificates

ECS. The ECS designation confirms the product's compliance with all DIN requirements. Manufacturers who use such a mark, in contrast to the CE certificate, voluntarily subject themselves to constant checks of industrial quality control, measuring instruments, as well as final results, and always guarantee the high quality of the masks.
CSA. Standards Association in Canada, standards and certification are the same as DIN. Manufacturing and manufactured goods are also controlled by annual audits.
AS/NZS. Australian/New Zealand certificate, same as DIN accreditation. Once a manufacturer has received this accreditation, the Australian certification association SAIGlobal carries out an annual audit of the manufacturing plant.

Which Chameleon welding mask is best to buy?

Safety when working with a welding machine comes first. There is always the possibility of injury or burn to the cornea, directly leading to partial or complete blindness. Therefore, the choice of welding helmet must be taken seriously. A chameleon welding mask is considered an excellent solution.

Welding helmet chameleon

The chameleon mask for welding from different manufacturers has a similar design. More precisely: the case, the control board, the light filter and the power supply. The housing protects against metal splashes during operation. The board controls the change in light filter settings, so the screen is automatically darkened during welding. The power supply automatically switches the filter.

Principle of operation:

The viewing glass of the mask is covered with a darkening film, protecting the human eyes from glare and burns. The light filter is located in the sight glass and includes several layers of liquid crystals. Some include 3 layers, others 4. In a quiet position, the filter crystals are in one position, but during an arc flash, the control board gives a signal about the restructuring of the crystals. And the sight glass darkens in ten-thousandths of a second. The intensity of the darkening depends on the brightness of the arc.
After welding is completed, the crystals do not immediately return to their original quiet position, ensuring high safety.

Chameleon filter

In all chameleon welder masks there is a delay in the activation of crystals, and you can also set individual delay values. Also, many of them are equipped with steam vents that prevent the glass from fogging up.

Rules for choosing filters

Before purchasing masks or glasses, you should understand the optical characteristics of light filters and the specifics of using the products.

Recommendations for choosing filters for welding

If you regularly carry out welding work, you should choose the “Chameleon” mask.
The size of the filter determines visibility and comfort during welding activities.
The filter response time can vary from 0.03 to 0.0001 s.
You should choose models with continuously adjustable dimming levels, which are more comfortable than stepped ones.
It is recommended to use universal filters that have a shade of 9-13 DIN.
The optical class of the filter determines the clarity and visibility of the image through glass (the best option has an indicator of 1).

Additional features

Additionally, you need to pay attention to: dispersion, homogeneity and angular dependence of the filters, what type of welding will be used, current indicators, risk of mechanical stress

When choosing protective devices, it is important to decide how the work will be carried out: indoors or outdoors

When choosing protective devices, it is important to decide how the work will be carried out: indoors or outdoors. The type of work carried out is indicated by markings: E – electric welding, G – gas welding,

The type of work carried out is indicated by markings: E – electric welding, G – gas welding,

B – auxiliary work, C – marking for “Chameleon” type filters.

Marking of different types of welding

To ensure uninterrupted operation of the filter, you should pay attention to:

an adjustment unit, which can be accessed on the front side of the mask, which allows for correction without stopping work;
on/off system that increases the longevity of the power supply and filter;
availability of changing power sources;
the number of sensors that determine the response time;
possibility of adjusting parameters.

When choosing a model, it is recommended to choose filters marked 1/1/1/2, which determines the relationship to the optical class, uniformity and light dispersion.

When purchasing, it is important to study the product certificate, warranty period, and location of service centers. Explanation of the symbols on the welding mask

Explanation of the symbols on the welding mask

What you need to pay attention to when choosing a chameleon mask.

Good day, friends! Today I would like to talk about choosing masks. Many people think that the difference between masks for 2000 rubles. and for 20,000 rubles. no, but they only overpay for the brand. In reality this is not true! Masks have many aspects in which they differ. For example, the number of sensors for recording an electric arc, the width of the screen, the degree of darkness, the response time, the optical class of the filter and, perhaps most importantly, it protects the eyes from invisible ultraviolet and infrared rays, which are emitted in excess during electric welding. These are the main parameters by which we recommend choosing masks. Now, in order.

1. Masks come with 2 sensors and 4. Light filters with 4 sensors are guaranteed to work, even when welding in hard-to-reach places, where part of the structure being welded may end up between the arc and the sensor during the welding process, thereby blocking the “view” of the sensor. In simple words, if you are welding, say, a ladder in a mask with 2 sensors, then at one moment it may turn out that they can be blocked by a stringer when welding the next step. While for a mask with 4 sensors, in order to block all 4, you need to completely block your view when welding, since they are located in all corners of the light filter. That is, a mask with 4 sensors ensures operation even when welding in a hard-to-reach place with “blind spots”. 2. With width, everything is simple: the larger the screen, the more expensive the mask and the wider the view in it. 3. The degree of “darkening” of the mask is measured in DIN, the higher the DIN, the darker its filter and the more rays it “absorbs”. More expensive masks have a larger range of light transmittance adjustment. As a rule, this is realized by adding a switch to the 2nd stage for adjusting the “darkening” level of the filter. Masks without this switch “darken” in the range from 9 to 13 DIN, and filters that have this switch “acquire” another range of “darkness adjustment” from 4 to 8 DIN. The choice of the degree of light transmittance is individual for each person. Someone cooks at 11 din and it’s light for him, but for someone at 9 it’s a little dark. As a rule, the instructions for all chameleon masks contain a similar table that gives the approximate recommended values for the set DIN for a particular welding method, depending on the set current strength. As can be seen from the table, masks with an extended light transmittance adjustment interval are used mainly for TIG argon arc welding.

4. Masks also differ in the quality class of the light transmission of the light filter or the “image it produces,” which is measured by four indicators. 1/1/1/1 - the highest optical class. The higher the number, the worse. The worst filters have a class of 3/3/3/3. The difference between a filter of 1/1/1/1 and, say, 1/2/1/2 is noticeable to the naked eye. The first number in the classification indicates the clarity of the picture, without distortion, as if we were looking through a magnifying glass. The second number indicates light transmission; the lower the number, the blurrier the picture. The third number indicates the uniformity of darkening of the filter. The fourth number indicates the change in the degree of darkness depending on the viewing angle. Unfortunately, there are now few masks that actually meet the declared indicators. And many do not confirm these classes with any certificates. And in fact, only some companies can boast that the light filters of their masks comply with the parameters 1/1/1/1, which is confirmed by the test report upon receipt of the certificate. 5. Now we come to the most interesting indicator. Protection from ultraviolet and infrared rays is perhaps the most important thing to look for when choosing a mask. Surely many of you have received burns to exposed skin during welding and have noticed how quickly this happens and the severity of the consequences of these burns. Therefore, you need to be more careful about protecting your eyes than protecting your skin, since a damaged retina, unlike skin, cannot be restored. And sooner or later, the amount of harmful rays invisible to the retina can affect your vision. According to European standards, the highest level of protection against UV and IR rays is 16 DIN. This level of protection has been found to be sufficient for safe operation.

In addition to the 4 main properties, mask filters have a number of distinctive features. For example, filters may differ in their response time, measured in fractions of a second, and basically all masks have a value of 1/30000 of a second. In addition, masks come with replaceable batteries and soldered ones. The second option is already rare on the modern market. But, nevertheless, there are still versions of masks without the ability to replace the “battery” and sometimes their price is about 6-8 thousand rubles. Sooner or later the battery will run out and replacing it will be extremely problematic in this case. We advise you not to buy masks with these filters. And this does not mean that you need to buy the most expensive masks. You need to select a mask according to your needs and it is best to contact consultants, they will advise you. And now we want to dispel the biggest misconception! The mask does not work from a solar battery and the battery is not charged from a photocell, the batteries are not charged in principle and there is no charger in the mask and the batteries are not rechargeable batteries many times. Many argue about this, but to make sure of this, just remove the battery and read the inscription on it. You will see an inscription like CR 2032, where the numbers indicate the size and the letters indicate the type of element. It is known that R, CR, ER, LR, FR, PR, SR are batteries, and HR, KR, ZR, ML are batteries, on the cases of which it is often written Rechargeable, that is, rechargeable. So the masks contain batteries, not accumulators. The principle of operation of the mask is simple, the first darkening (the charge for darkening to be precise) is taken from the batteries. Then the solar battery turns on. Its task is to maintain darkness from welding, because otherwise the batteries would be changed once a week.

When purchasing a chameleon mask, we recommend paying attention to the presence of certificates of quality and compliance with the stated parameters. The following certificate options are available. TR/TS Certificate of Russia! This certificate is quite difficult to obtain, because Real tests of masks are carried out under harsh conditions. First, the masks are checked to ensure they comply with technical specifications. The masks are then placed in a chamber with a temperature of 50 degrees Celsius for two days. They are then checked for deformation and changes in properties. Then the same procedure at minus 20. Next, the mask is placed in an oven at 800 degrees, the mask should not catch fire, and if it does catch fire, it should go out when you take it out of the oven. The release of harmful substances when heated is also checked. Filters are checked for transmission of harmful substances. Next, a representative of the certification center goes to the enterprise for inspection. According to the law, until 2022, the fine for using an uncertified mask is 80 thousand rubles per legal entity for each mask. From 2022 the fine has been increased.

379 DIN Plus new more stringent European certificate. This certificate introduces new, more stringent requirements for assessing the quality of masks with ASF. A fourth digit has been added to the optical class rating. Now the optical class should be designated as follows, for example 1/1/1/2 or 1/2/1/2. Optical class classifies the quality of the filter.

Setting based on welding mode

Diagram of the front glass of the chameleon mask.

The customizable chameleon welder mask involves the use of several operating modes. There is no need to change filters - you just need to set the required mode. The modes are designated as follows:

MMA – manual arc welding;
MIG/MAG – semi-automatic arc industrial welding, designed to work in a gas environment of argon or carbon dioxide;
MIG (light) – semi-automatic gas arc welding;
TIG, GTAW - arc welding, for which a non-consumable electrode is used;
SAW – semi-automatic welding using flux;
PAC – plasma arc welding.

The instructions also include information about possible breakdowns. In addition to breakdowns, troubleshooting methods are indicated. In case of complex breakdowns, it is best to contact a service center, since the equipment can be damaged, and its further repair will be expensive. If the filter darkens unevenly, you must contact a service center. The filter is out of order, and you can’t fix it with your own hands.

If flickering is observed or there is no darkening of the viewing window, then you need to carefully clean the plate of dirt. If this measure does not help, then it is best to replace the plate, since it is damaged and changing the settings will not help. If the darkening is uneven, it is necessary to remove the mask and inspect the condition of the sensors

It is important to make sure that the surface of the sensors is not blocked and that nothing prevents light from reaching them. The chameleon welder’s mask should not have any dirt stains or dust layers on the surface

Chameleon mask filter darkening selection table.

Damage to the sensors is indicated by the following:

filter response is slow;
the darkening does not go away after the arc goes out;
flickering is observed, the viewing window does not darken.

In this case, you cannot repair the sensors yourself; you must immediately contact a technician at the service center.

For many models, batteries can be easily replaced with your own hands. It is imperative to inspect the sensors, i.e. bring them to a bright light. This is required to ensure work safety, since the lack of darkening leads to eye injuries.

Sensors may be blocked if:

the window begins to brighten when it is illuminated during operation;
the dimming level does not correspond to the set mode;
slow response;
darkening is observed when there is no longer backlighting;
flickering is observed.

It is easy to correct this situation: you need to clean the surface of the sensor itself and inspect the condition of the viewing window panel.

Contacting the service center

Additional options make repairs more difficult and increase the risk of mask failure. If the degree of darkening has decreased significantly, it is necessary to inspect the structure.

Some components cannot be repaired and require mandatory replacement. If you cannot do this yourself, you need to contact a service center. The guarantee is valid only for complete masks. If you managed to delve into it, you will have to pay for the service.

There is no point in undertaking repairs to the system board: this is a matter for professionals. It is better to contact the service center immediately. Unsuccessful DIY repairs can result in additional costs.

Marking of filters

The filter markings indicate the following characteristics:

Degree of darkness.
Optical glass type.
Light scattering indicator.
Uniformity of shading.
Angular dependence.

Darkness level

Glass class	Error indicator
1	0.1 DIN
2	0.2 DIN
3	0.3 DIN

Features when working with a chameleon welding helmet

There are usually two types of masks on sale: masks with a fixed degree of darkness and masks, also called chameleon.

Chameleons are more expensive, but they are also distinguished by their quality: they have an automatic light filter that instantly reacts to intense light, thereby protecting their eyesight.

Depending on the brightness of the light radiation, the Chameleon mask instantly darkens, which will protect the owner of the mask from eye damage.

The structure of the darkening filter is layered - the manufacturer has distributed it so that liquid crystals alternate with a special film.

The principle of operation of the mask can be described as follows: the crystals become in such an order that some of the light simply does not pass through.

The best manufacturers of welding equipment

If welding is rarely done at home, and the duration of such work is short, then you can limit yourself to buying an inexpensive Chinese light filter, but you should not count on its high quality. It is better for professionals not to save money and purchase products from popular, reliable manufacturers:

3M is an American company that produces not only light filters, but also shields, masks, and plates. All products are of high quality, so the manufacturer occupies a leading position in the Russian and world markets.
Svarog is a popular Russian company that produces protective equipment and welding equipment. The advantage of their products is their affordable price and high quality.
FUBAG is a German manufacturer that produces equipment and protective equipment for various industries and construction. Offers a large selection of replacement light filters and welding helmets.
Quattro Elementi is an Italian manufacturer. It produces modern models with fixed filters and those that can change the level of darkness in accordance with the strength of the light flux.
BRIMA is another German company popular in Russia, offering protective equipment used for welding by both amateurs and professionals.

produces masks and light filters.

How to select a filter

The response time of the light filter is regulated by European standards EN379, according to which shading units are calculated in DIN units. When the illumination level increases from 4 to 13 DIN, the response inertia should not exceed 4 ms, and when moving to a more sensitive range (4-9 DIN) - 160-180 ms. Since the inertia of the human eye is at least 250 ms, the specified standards fully ensure effective protection of the welder’s visual organs. The performance of the filter is also determined by the intensity of its use. So, for professional welders, the response time should be no higher than 50 ms.

The next stage of selection is to analyze the specific characteristics of the filter. These include the optical class of the device, the degree of light scattering, the homogeneity class of the light flux and the permissible value of the scattering angle. All specified parameters are indicated on the body of the mask, with each subsequent characteristic separated by a slash from the previous one. At the end of the symbol there is a reference to the main standard (in this case EN379).

All of the above items are required.

What is a chameleon mask?

Unlike a standard shield, the Welding Chameleon takes welder protection to a new level. The principle of operation of such a mask is the polarization of liquid crystals. During provocation, they change direction and interfere with the effects of ultraviolet radiation. Masks in the expensive price segment use multi-layer protection, this ensures the most uniform darkening. And an additional filter provides blocking of infrared radiation.

The helmet has built-in sensors that detect the arc and provide constant eye protection. The entire structure is enclosed in a block, which is protected on both sides with the help of plastic light filters. You can carry out related work (with a grinder, a hammer) without removing the protective helmet from your head. Plastic filters require replacement over time, as they are consumables. The key point of the protective process is the speed at which the light filter operates. The response time of professional models is 1 millisecond.

The protective properties of a chameleon directly depend on the ambient temperature. If the temperature is below minus 10 degrees, the operation of the filter slows down. Conscientious manufacturers indicate the maximum operating temperature in the product data sheet. Adjustments can be made during the workflow. The buttons are conveniently located and easy to operate with tactile contact.

It is important to know! The mask must be stored in a heated room, otherwise its service life will be reduced.

The design and principle of operation of the Chameleon mask

The Chameleon mask is classified as personal protective equipment. The main purpose of the product is to prevent damage to the skin and eyes from IR and UV radiation, harmful smoke, sparks, gases and drops of metal formed during welding work.

This type differs from ordinary masks in its ability to create varying degrees of darkness. This happens automatically based on sensor signals. The shading material is not dark glass, but LCD screens separated by polarizing films.

Technical innovations used in the manufacture of the Chameleon make the product more expensive, but significantly increase the degree of protection.

To understand the principle of operation of a protective mask, you should familiarize yourself with its design. The design consists of a body fixed with an adjustable headband.

The product completely covers the face, neck, chin and upper part of the head. In the eye area there is a screen with a block of light filters made on the basis of crystals. At the top of the window there is a solar panel and arc sensors.

There are special regulators on the body. Their number depends on the options that a particular model is equipped with. Most often, regulators for auto-darkening and fixing the mask on the head are installed.

The protective function is provided by a block of light filters. It includes several layers of films placed in a vacuum. The change of filters occurs after a signal is given by the sensors. The functionality of the automatic mode depends on the voltage level supplied to the device. The response time of light filters is from 1/10000 to 1/35000 sec.

The Chameleon mask has a limited operating temperature range. The lower limit reaches from -5 to -10 degrees. The lower the indicator, the slower the filter works.

The advantage of a welding mask is the convenient method of fixation. Using the headband, the product is securely fixed, leaving both hands free. There is no need to lift the screen before or after ignition. Thanks to the parameters, not only the eyes are protected, but the entire face, neck, and head are protected. The dimming setting is carried out taking into account the type of work.

The Chameleon mask has some special features. For example, the response time of sensors changes under the influence of sub-zero temperatures. The cost of products of this type is higher than conventional personal protective equipment.

How the mask works

The protective mechanism is triggered after the reaction of sensors located on the front side of the case. As soon as ignition occurs, the electric arcs transmit an impulse to the electronic board. The signal is converted there. The filter unit is powered by solar or lithium batteries.

Under the influence of electric current, the filter films are rearranged in such a way that infrared and ultraviolet radiation do not pass through them.

After the radiation stops, the sensors again react by stopping the signal to the board, which in turn turns off the power from the filter block. The screen of the protective equipment becomes transparent.

Reference! Even when inactive, the mask filters invisible and polarizing light. This eliminates exposure of the welder’s eyes to the sun, glare, and radiation from hot metal.

Chameleon has the ability to enable the grinding mode. This option is useful when working with spark-producing tools (grinder, etc.). This feature prevents glass from darkening erroneously in response to sparks.

What does the market offer?

All welding helmets available on the tool market can be divided into three groups based on price-quality ratio:

The cheapest, but with a very wide range of product quality fluctuations. Often they do not have certificates. These are mainly made in Taiwan or China.
More expensive and quite high quality. They have proper Russian certificates. These are products from domestic manufacturers or South Korea.
The most expensive and high-quality welding helmets are chameleon. As stated in the reviews of those who chose them - with a high degree of reliability. They have all the necessary documents. These are masks produced in European countries or under the direct control of European manufacturers (for example, TECHMEN or SPEEDGLAS).

In any case, no matter how expensive and outwardly reliable the mask may look, if during operation the eyes become irritated or a burning sensation appears, then this mask is not suitable for use. Her filter needs replacing.

How to use a welding mask

Be sure to read the user manual before use, which can make it easier for you to adjust the mask for welding tasks and avoid any obscuring problems.

the Chameleon mask should fit tightly to your head and not create voids - this will give you confidence when working that the mask will not fall off and you will not be injured;
To replace the power supply elements, it is necessary to transfer the shield to grinding. If the red light comes on, you need to change the batteries;
if you are prone to allergies, then make sure that the belt for putting on does not rub the areas of contact, otherwise it is more likely that you may experience skin irritation;
Do not use detergents or aggressive cleaning agents to clean the damper;
the light filter does not handle moisture and may fail;
if you notice that the quality of the darkening has deteriorated or is absent, then stop welding until the cause of the malfunction is determined;
It is better not to change the specified settings for the light filter. Only the spare parts specified in the instructions are suitable for its adjustment;
do not use physical force on the shield;
It’s logical to take the filter cartridge to a specialist to find out what’s broken in it;
a surface with elevated temperatures can damage the shield and cause dimming problems;
The Chameleon mask is not used for plasma or gas welding.

How to choose

Light filters for welding masks can be selected by marking. It has 4 digits. Each of them characterizes a certain indicator.

Optical class number. Determines the clarity of the image through the filter.
Level of light scattering. As the value of the number increases, the image received by the eyes deteriorates, the picture becomes cloudy. Best seen with marking value 1.
The level of darkness and the uniformity of its distribution over all glass surfaces.
Angular dependence of darkening, its degree when rotated by 15⁰.

Welding glass markings indicate how well the arc will be visible and the degree of eye protection while welding, including turning your head slightly.