welding/cutting lens shades

[barracuda]

what would be the lowest #shade that would be considered safe to cut with plasma cutter

[jbman45]

I tend to move the shade down to the level where I can just nicely see the cut, marks on the metal and see what I am doing. Think this is normally about 6 but the key is to judge for yourself a real nice comfortable level of visibility and no high glare at all. some others may have a technical answer but you'll be safe overall if you bring your shade down to where it's a little hard to see. But that works for me for many years and I've never had a burning issue in the eyes.

[Gadget]

Theoretically you could leave the lens on the clearest setting since the UV is supposed to be filtered even with the lens open but I would darken it enough to see what you are cutting without having the light too intense.

[barracuda]

Thanks guys both of the auto helmets i have only go down to #9 shade if to dark i will have check into a#6 lens for my non-auto helmet.

[barracuda]

Gadget i was wondering if i could give you a call again, not sure of how to set up the rest of my site.

[Gadget]

Kind of late tonight how about tomorrow around 8:30PM.

[Gadget]

Actually, if it doesn't take too long we can do it now. You still have my number?

[Ascinder]

I have heard a #5 shade is great for plasma, but have had trouble finding one at local welding shops. Seems like something I'd have to find online. I have an old non autodarkening mask I want to use for just this purpose.

[SICFabrications]

actually, the shade 5 is too light for plasma, you should be using a shade 8 or 9... the shade 5 is common torch cutting lens and can even find them at home depot...

[WookieWelding]

Number 5 is the industry standard filter lens for plasma, oxy acetylene Cutting and Welding and oxy/fuel cutting using a auto dark that does not go down to a #5 at its clear state unless stated #5 will not protect your eyes and will damage them you can use darker tho #5 or higher you can pick up a pair of #5 goggles for like 10 bucks