Can anyone advise me whether plasma cutting radiates UV? In other words, do I need UV eye protection or will normal acetylene welding googles be sufficient.
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It generates plenty of UV, however it is only in the 1/8" or so from the nozzle to the surface of the material being cut which is mostly shielded by the torch assembly. The official safety warnings say to use a full helmet, but a majority of users use OA goggles or nothing at all.
Pete C.
Yes, enough to do eye damage.
That depends on the quality-of-life you plan to have, say, 20 years from now. Those who don't relish the idea of stumbling around with a white walking stick, wear eye protection appropriate for the task at hand. Ditto for hearing protection.
It really depends on what kind of unit your using and what your cutting. UV and noise are two issues, but I don't think anyone has mentioned fumes. You shound have good ventilation or some sort of downdraft table, especially if cutting coated materials.
U.R.
Plasma cutting up to 1/4" can be done with a #5 lens, 3/8" can be done safely with #6. Above that you should rig up a welding hood with a #7 or #8 lens. It also depends if you are staring at the plasma stream or just catching the reflection.
"Ernie Leimkuhler" wrote
I really love it on TV when the gal with the big hair and fluffy sweater is doing OA work with a full welding hood. Of course, with a big yellow flame and very little oxygen, I'll just bet those big black soot stringer boogers are just a flying.
I mean, if they would only give her a NexGen, she would at least have just a little credibility.
Steve
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