Electronic shade help please

[SoCalTA]

Hello guys,

I found a place that sells the 210 with the spoolgun for $1,648 and since its over the internet there is no tax and they offer free shipping. I am going to be putting in my order this week and it dawned on me that I need something for my eyes. The sell 9000, Utility, Shade 10 for $148 and 9000, Utility, Shade 11 $148. Could someone tell me in English what the difference is and if it would be ok for purchase. I wont be using it every day all day and I would like to not spend a great deal of money since the welder is going to zap me.

Thanks,

Jorge

[HAWK]

SoCalTA,

The shade number represents the "darkness of the lens". The higher the number the "darker" the lens. This is directly related to the amount of eye protection the shade gives your eyes from the welding arc. A shade 10 has been considered the industry standard for years. An 11 shade is not necessarily better. You want the shade dark enough to provide the proper eye protection while still being able to see your welding puddle. Other than the darkness these shades are equal in UV protection, etc.

A variable shade electronic hood is even a better option. You can turn it down to a shade 9 for low amperage mig welding and up to a 12 or 13 for higher amperage welding. These helmets can be had for $200 and up. If you find the funds available, e-mail and I'll send you the info to purchase the Optrel Satellite: 2 ranges- shades 5-9 for tig and 9-13 for stick, mig, and CAC-A. It also has a grind mode so the sparks from the metal won't cause the lens to darken. It will accept cheater lenses for poor eyesight and can be fitted with most any accessory you can imagine. This is one of the finest helmets on the market today and is typically $325-$375. I bought mine for $245 and can get you the same deal through a nationally known dealer.

Money being an issue the shade 10 will cover more of the low to mid-range welding with the MM210 (say: 50amps upt to 150 amps). It will probably be fine for the upper end as well for short periods of time.
In your shoes I would buy the #10 unless funds permit for the Optrel Satellite.

Another option is to get the old fashioned, if you will, hood with the flip up lens shade. The flip up allows for grinding with the clear lens protector in place. There is something to be said for learning this way. Jackson makes a nice one for about $35. You can change for a #10 to #11 or perhaps a #9 for low amperage welds.

Go for the old fashioned flip up and save your money for the Optrel Satelitte. I believe you will be much happier in the long run! Mig welding is fairly easy to learn with the standard hood because you can position the mig torch prior to dropping your hood and starting the arc: Position the mig torch, flip you head to drop the hood, and pull the torch trigger. Now you you have the light to see where you need to be for $35. Face it: E hoods were not always an option.

Let us know what you decide.

LAST THOUGHT: ALUMINUM WELDING CREATES A"BRIGHT-WHITE" ARC UNLIKE THAT OF STEEL WHEN BEING WELDED. HERE IS ANOTHER GOOD REASON TO SAVE FOR THE OPTREL OR SOME OTHER VARIABLE SHADE HOOD. I PUSH THE OPTREL ONLY BECAUSE TIME AND TRIAL HAS TAUGHT ME THE DIFFERENCE.

Last but not least: The MM210 with the spoolgun package is great machine setup. You won't be disappointed!!!

ONCE AGAIN-LET US KNOW

[Paul Seaman]

I agree on most subjects with Hawk, except he likes the Optrel and I like the upper end Speedglas. I bought a low end Jackson fixed shade 10 shortly after buying my migpak110. The auto helmet made me a much better welder quickley, since I was not moving my head to nod a helmet down. If you buy the mm210 and spoolmate kit, I would not skimp, buy great protection! You only get one set of eyes. Also the reason I like the Speedglas better 1: its controls are inside since I work in close spaces under cars and equipment, I was affraid I would tear off the controls on the Optrel. 2: the Optrel is somewhat heavier. 3: the Speedglas is a more flexible frame

I have the same welder and love it. If you can afford it buy a great helmet you will never ever regret it.
pjs

ps: I also recieved a free Miller American flag Xlix helmet with my mm210 It is also a great helmet and the price was right.

Happy welding and good luck

[ROCK]

SOCALITA........... Well which helmet did you get..........?
Rock.. [email protected]

[SoCalTA]

First off thanks to all that responded and gave me their input. I am still looking into the helmet issue. I am leaning towards the Optrel. I just want to be sure and place the order for the welder and helmet all in one.