What should consider when choosing laser protective eyewear?

When choosing laser protective eyewear, the following points should be noted:

Operating wavelength: Clearly understand the wavelength of the laser used. Different wavelengths of laser cause different damage to the eyes. Protective glasses need to effectively protect against the specific wavelength. For example, for a 1064nm wavelength laser, choose glasses that can block this wavelength.

Output power: The power of the laser determines the energy intensity. A high-power laser has a higher risk of eye damage, requiring stronger protective glasses. Generally, the higher the power, the greater the optical density (OD) value required of the glasses.

Wavelength and optical density (OD value): Select the corresponding protective glasses according to the laser wavelength. The higher the OD value, the stronger the protection ability for that specific wavelength. However, an overly high OD value may affect the transmittance of visible light and cause the field of vision to darken. For example, for strong lasers, an OD value of 4 or higher may be needed; for weaker lasers, an OD value of 2 or 3 might be sufficient.

Visible light transmittance (VLT): It indicates the percentage of visible light that can pass through the glasses. A higher VLT generally means better visual clarity, but too high a VLT may imply relatively weaker laser protection. If the VLT is lower than 20%, the visual effect will be poor and additional lighting may be needed in the working environment.

Performance: According to the parameters of the laser and the working environment, choose a filter with the appropriate wavelength range and OD value. For example, for a working environment involving multiple wavelengths of laser, a composite filter that can protect against these wavelengths simultaneously may be needed. If there is strong thermal radiation in the working environment, in addition to considering the laser protection performance of the filter, its high-temperature resistance performance also needs to be considered.

Meet standards: Choose laser protective eyewear with relevant safety certifications. Currently, the main safety standards for laser glasses in the world are the ANSI Z136 standard in the United States and the EN207 standard with CE certification in the European Union. China also has relevant safety standards for laser glasses, such as GB30863 - 2014 "Test Methods for Main Parameters of Laser Protective Glasses". Qualified laser protective glasses should clearly mark information such as wavelength, OD value, and L level (damage threshold specification). Do not buy cheap glasses without proper markings or certifications.

One of the main issues with laser eyewear is its proper fit. If the eyewear doesn't fit snugly on the face, there is a risk of laser light entering from the sides or gaps, reducing its effectiveness in protecting the eyes. Another problem could be the quality of the lenses. Inferior lenses might not provide adequate protection against specific wavelengths of lasers, potentially leaving the eyes vulnerable. Additionally, some laser eyewear might be uncomfortable to wear for extended periods, which can be a significant drawback for users who need to wear it for long work hours or in demanding environments. Moreover, the cost of high-quality laser eyewear can be a concern for many. While it's essential for safety, the price may be prohibitive for some individuals or organizations.

In summary, there are many issues to consider when choosing laser protective eyewear. If you need help or more information about our products, feel free to Contact us online.