Whether you have a career as a welder or you do welding part time, you know how important it is to have the right equipment. When you have the right gear, you can make your work easier, safer, and more efficient.
While all the PPE for welding is essential, the hood takes the lead because it might be the most important one. But, there are many types of hoods and every welder has their preference for the hood. One of the most popular styles is the pancake. Why?
To give you an idea, here are some reasons why many welders choose pancake welding hoods.
1. Superior Eye Protection
One of the main reasons welders choose pancake welding hoods is for the eye protection they offer.
When you are welding, you can experience a lot of intense light and sparks, which can be harmful to your eyes. Luckily, a pancake hood is designed with a round, flat front that provides excellent coverage, blocking out light and debris from all angles.
This means you are very less likely to experience eye strain or injury. This way, you can focus better on your work.
2. Lightweight Design
It doesn’t matter if you work as a welder or it is your hobby, welding can be a physically demanding task.
When you wear all that gear all day in the heat, you can easily get exhausted. That’s why the lightweight design of pancake welding hoods is so appealing.
Unlike traditional welding helmets, which can be bulky and heavy, pancake hoods are made from lightweight materials. This makes them more comfortable to wear for hours, reducing neck and shoulder strain.
3. Customizable Fit
Another reason welders prefer pancake welding hoods is their customizable fit. When you buy a pancake hood, it will come with adjustable straps and pads. That’s why, you can easily tailor the fit to your head.
With a pancake hood, you don’t have to worry about it slipping or moving around, which can be both annoying and dangerous.
4. Improved Visibility
Good visibility is essential for precision in welding.
Fortunately, pancake hoods are designed to enhance your field of vision while you are working. The flat front minimizes glare and reflections, giving you a clearer view of your work. Many pancake hoods also feature a large lens that offers a wide viewing area. This can help you see better details and make more accurate welds.
Plus, the darkened lens helps protect your eyes from the bright welding light while still allowing you to see what you’re doing.
5. Durability
Welding is a type of work that can be tough on its surroundings, and that includes your protective equipment. That is why you need the personal protective equipment that can withstand the heat, sparks, and general wear and tear of the job.
Luckily, pancake welding hoods are known for their durability. The sturdy materials they are made from can handle the harsh conditions of welding. This means you can rely on your pancake hood to last longer, saving you money on replacements.