Matweld Flip Front Welding Helmet

The Matweld Flip Front Helmet is a classic, durable, and cost-effective piece of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Unlike modern auto-darkening helmets, this manual version features a spring-loaded "flip" mechanism. This allows the welder to lift the dark filter lens to inspect their work or grind a weld while keeping their face protected by a clear secondary lens.

Technical Specifications

• Shell Material: High-impact resistant, heat-stabilized polypropylene.
• Filter Lens: Standard #10 or #11 Mineral Glass (interchangeable).
• Clear Lens: Impact-resistant polycarbonate.
• Lens Size: Standard 108mm x 51mm (2" x 4.25").
• Harness: Fully adjustable ratcheting headgear with a sweatband.

Key Features

• Dual Protection: The helmet contains two lenses. When the front shaded section is flipped up, a clear safety lens remains in place to protect the eyes from flying sparks and slag during chipping or grinding.
• Fail-Safe Reliability: Since there are no batteries, sensors, or electronic circuits, there is zero risk of being "flashed" due to a sensor failure or a dead battery. It is the preferred choice for outdoor welding in bright sunlight where sensors might struggle.
• Replaceable Components: The lenses are standard sizes and are very inexpensive to replace if they become pitted or cracked.
• Lightweight Design: Designed for extended use, the shell is balanced to reduce neck strain when in the "up" position.

Common Applications

• Stick (SMAW) Welding: Ideal for heavy-duty manual metal arc welding where frequent slag chipping is required.
• MIG (GMAW) Welding: Suitable for general fabrication and repair work.
• Grinding & Cleaning: The flip-up feature makes it a "two-in-one" tool for welding and surface preparation.
• Training: Often used in welding schools to teach students the physical "nod" or manual lens control required for traditional welding.

Usage Tips

1. Check the Gasket: Ensure the light-seal gasket around the filter lens is intact. Any "light leaks" around the edge of the dark glass can cause eye strain or "arc eye."
2. Adjust the Tension: Use the side knobs to adjust how easily the helmet flips down. You want it tight enough to stay up when needed, but loose enough to drop with a sharp nod of the head.
3. Clean the Clear Lens: Welders often forget to replace the clear inner lens. If your vision is blurry even with the flip-front up, it's time for a new polycarbonate insert.