I need a recommendation for a new welding mask. I have both a fixed glass and an auto darkening mask. I need something better, here are the challenges I have:
I wear glasses and need the larger viewing area.
My fixed glass is a #13 and I find too dark for TIG.
The auto darkening I find can be just right when starting a weld but then becomes too dark as I progress with the weld.
I can’t afford $1500 for the Google recommended 3M mask.
Is there such a thing as an auto darkening mask that will change the darkening level based on how bright the light is and doesn’t cost as much as a car??
I’m more of a MIG person, but, …,
I’m not sure why your helmet would get darker as you weld. Could be the helmet.
I like speed glass helmets. They have darkness controls that are easy to use.
Large visibility.
You may also like magnifier lenses that you can slip onto the inside of the lens. They can be helpful.
And. I clean my glass/lenses before working. I am always surprised at the smoke/dust accumulation.
Sounds fussy, but it really helps with visibility. https://a.co/d/ey2c1R6
In TIG welding, you vary the amperage in the arc by changing how much pressure you put on the foot pedal. You typically use full power at the start of a weld to get the weld puddle formed and then back off as you continue because the metal is already hot and doesn’t need as much power to keep a consistent puddle size. I think @BillOrner means that the arc is less bright after backing off, not that the shade of the helmet is getting darker.