Laser welding vs. traditional welding: Choosing the right protective glasses

With the widespread use of laser technology, laser welding has also been applied in various fields. Like traditional welding, it is a common industrial welding method, each with unique characteristics and safety requirements. A key aspect of safe welding practice is choosing the right glasses to protect your eyes from harmful light and radiation. This article makes a detailed comparison between laser welding and traditional welding, and provides guidance on choosing the right protective glasses for each welding.

What is laser welding?

Laser welding uses a high-energy-density laser beam as a heat source to fuse materials, making it ideal for precision applications such as automotive manufacturing, electronics, and medical devices. The energy of the laser is concentrated, usually within a specific wavelength range, such as the common fiber laser wavelength of about 1060-1090nm. Laser welding protective glasses mainly prevent laser damage to the eyes by absorbing or reflecting lasers of specific wavelengths. Laser welding glasses of LaserPair are made of laser absorbent materials that absorb a specific wavelength. LP-YHP-2 DIN4 laser protective glasses are widely used in laser welding protection.

Main features of laser welding:

High precision: very suitable for complex and delicate work.

Minimal thermal effects: Reduces thermal damage to surrounding materials.

Strong radiation: Produces ultraviolet (UV), infrared (IR), and visible light that can cause serious eye damage if not protected.

What is conventional welding?

Conventional welding relies on an electric current to create an arc between a metal electrode and a workpiece, generating the heat needed to join the metals.

Key features of conventional welding:

Versatility: Applicable to a wide range of materials, including steel and aluminum.

Ease of use: Equipment is widely available and relatively inexpensive.

Bright arc light and debris: Emits strong light and flying sparks, requiring strong eye and face protection.

How to choose welding glasses

1. Laser welding protective glasses

Lens requirements: Laser safety glasses are specifically designed to block specific laser wavelengths. Optical density (OD) level and filter range are selected based on the laser wavelength type (e.g., CO2, Nd:YAG, Green Laser) and the power of the laser device.

Features to look out for:

Highly efficient radiation filtering for UV, IR, and visible lasers.

Clear visibility and excellent optical clarity.

Scratch- and impact-resistant materials for long-lasting durability. Recommended option: For 1064nm ND:YAG laser, please choose glasses suitable for this wavelength to ensure effective protection. Our LP-YHP-2 laser protective glasses, LP-ADY laser protective glasses, etc. from Rayscreen Technology can be used to protect against 1064 ND:YAG lasers.

2. Traditional welding protective glasses

Lens requirements: Dark lenses with different shades (DIN levels) to block arc light and UV/IR radiation.

Features to look out for:

Adjustable shade (usually DIN 9-13) for different welding intensities.

Wide coverage to prevent contact with flying debris and sparks.

Auto-darkening welding helmet for frequent switching between welding and inspection work.

Recommended option: For most general welding tasks, glasses with DIN 10-12 shade are suitable.

Key safety tips for welding glasses

Fit: Make sure the glasses fit tightly to the face to prevent light leakage.

Regular inspection: Check for scratches, cracks or worn coatings that may affect protection.

Replace in time: Replace glasses that are visibly damaged or have decreased effectiveness.

Why the right welding glasses are important

Protecting your eyes during welding is essential and necessary. Laser welding glasses are designed for high-precision work involving specific wavelengths, while traditional welding glasses protect against the wider glare and debris produced by arc welding.

By choosing glasses that are suitable for our welding needs, we can protect our eyesight and increase workplace safety. And buy certified, high-quality protective gear - protective glasses.