Batteries or Solar in Auto Weld Helmets??

[dourobob]

What a wealth of practical information I got in my earlier post on <A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.tractorbynet.com/cgi-bin/compact/showflat.pl?Cat=&Board=buildit&Number=224097&page=0&view=collapsed&sb=5&o=7&fpart=> Auto darkening welding helmets</A> - and now for the next level of clarification/opinion.

Of the three brands mentioned in the earlier string I got the following info on their web sites -

Optrel says "The use of solar energy means that an on/off switch and change of battery are no longer needed"

Jackson says "Solar-assist panel extends battery life"

HTP Striker says "Stirkers are power by 2 AAA batteries which are inexpensive and easily replaceable, not solar cells that can break or not recharge fast enough for tack welding"

OK guys - what is your experience on the pros and cons of solar vs battery with these helmets.

Thanks.

Bob

 

[Loges1]

I don't really like the Jackson style hood, but would go with the dual style. Unless you are going to use it every day the solar probably won't stay "charged". It's always nice to have a back up so when you strike that arc you don't see the big bright light. It's kind of distracting
Just MHO

 

[Corm]

I have a SpeedGlass 9000 that has batteries which are solar charged. I've had it for 3 years and have not had a single problem with it, and am still on the original batteries.

Corm

 

[Anonymous Poster]

We have both types here at work. Unless you are working outside in daylight all the time, the solar types just aren'nt worth it in my book. I get tired of putting it on, striking an arc, and getting blinded. I trust the battery type much better!

 

[Rockyroad]

I have not had any problems with the Optrel not working because of the solar cells (no batteries). I have used it at night in my barn with only flourscent lights for the light source and it has never not worked. I know a couple of other guys that have them and they have not had problems either. I would imagine that if you were not working in a brightly lit area you could have problems, however. That is why I always test it with my striker for my acetlyne torch before I strike an arc.

The only drawback is according to the literature the screen will not darken when it gets very cold outside. Since I do not do a lot of welding in the winter, it is not an issue for me.

One thing I like about the Optrel is the shape, and the fact that it has multiple sensors so that it darkens reliably. It also has a delay function so you can control how quickly it lightens after the arc stops. The other good feature is that the lens has a cover that can be replaced cheaply when it gets scratched up from use. The other brands probably offer the same protection, but I am not sure.

I am sure there are many other good brands out there that also work fine. I liked the idea of no batteries since I always seem to run out of consumables on a Sunday afternoon when everything is closed.

Bottom line is my welding supply store had many different brands and I tried them all before settling on the Optrel. But everyone has personal preferences, which is why I drive a Ford pickup and others swear by Chevies. Try them on at your supplier and see which one feels right for you.

Which ever one you buy (assuming it is a good one) will improve your welding a lot if you are a beginner like me. The pros are probably so good at welding that they could do it with their eyes closed, but for guys like us seeing what we are doing at the start of the welding process is important.

 

[wroughtn_harv]

I have the Jackson Master. It uses batteries and so does the Phantom. Two triple A batteries don't add that much weight to handle all day long.

One thing not mentioned is the headgear. Jackson used to have a real problem with theirs. They've since got that straightened out.

Even if you don't use the headgear often you will have to replace the headgear at some point in time. If you hood isn't one of the usual brands that might be a problem.