What Shade Lens For MIG Welding?

What Shades Of Lens Is Used For MIG Welding? (Various Types) 

MIG welding safety is a top priority before you learn how to use this equipment for your automotive needs. Probably one of the most critical pieces of safety equipment is the helmet, but you must also understand how to use the helmet effectively, which involves looking at the MIG welding lens number. 

What shade welding lens for MIG should you be using, and what do the numbers mean? The DIN is a German industrial standard rating that classifies the level of light filtering. The higher the DIN is, the more light that is blocked, leading to a darker shade. 

The majority of auto-darkening lenses come with a base level that’s passive at DIN 3-4. This shade is bright enough to see your work without lifting up the hood. This also allows you to operate your grinder at the same time.  

The DIN 3 allows an estimated 14% of light through the lens. The DIN 4 is three times darker, permitting around 5% light transmission. This is a big difference, especially if you are working in a low-light environment.  

However, the only way to appropriately determine the MIG welding lens is to look at some important factors because the same lens can’t be used for different circumstances.  

How To Select A MIG Welding Shade (Important Factors) 

You don’t want to simply guess on a lens shade for MIG welding. For starters, you need to look at what the helmet offers before you buy it. Consider the lens reaction time, arc sensors, amperage level and the shade numbers that are available.  

Once you know what the helmet is capable of, you are ready to pick the right lens for your job. To do this, evaluate the type of metal you are using, your eye sensitivity, and the amperage needed. It's also important to consider the lighting in the environment around you, whether it is bright or dark.  

Shade Number For MIG Welding - Quick Reference Table 

If you aren’t sure what number lens for MIG welding, here are some general guidelines to follow. 

How Do You Adjust The Shade On A Welding Helmet?

If your ADF helmet contains a permanent shade rating higher than what you need, you can opt for a different setting. You want to set it so that it's light enough to see what's important yet still dark enough to prevent injury or fatigue to your eyes. If spots appear when you are done welding, the shade isn't dark enough.  

Most people prefer to start with a darker shade at first and slowly lighten it up. With this method, you ensure that your eyes are always protected. If you have light eyes, you will need to start with a darker shade at first.   

Frequently Asked MIG Welding Shade Questions 

What is the minimum shade for MIG welding? 

If you are MIG welding with an amperage between 60 and 500, you want to use a DIN 10 or higher. This shade is appropriate for MIG and flux-cored welding procedures.  

Can you look at the sun with welding goggles? 

You don’t want to use welding goggles to look at the sun. Even at the highest setting of DIN 14, there’s minimal protection for your eyes from the sun’s rays.  

Can you weld with shade 5 glasses? 

If you are doing light work, the shade 5 might be suitable. However, 5 isn’t going to be good for MIG welding because of the IR from the arcs that can damage the eyes.  

How do I know my auto-darkening helmet is working? 

To test a reactive lens, go outside with the helmet on. Once you stand in the sun, the sensors should notice the change and darken. If it works, you know the helmet is ready to go.  

Conclusion

What shade of lens for MIG welding would be most appropriate? It depends on the type of material you are working with and the amperage your work is being performed at. Use our handy chart to find an appropriate shade.