Overview
Hand‑held laser welders project a low‑power preview (alignment) laser so operators can line up the weld seam before firing the high‑power beam. Because your view of this preview laser depends on how much visible light passes through your welding filter, selecting the right shade is always a compromise between arc protection and preview‑beam visibility.
Shade | Visible‑Light Transmission (typ.) | Best For |
Shade 3 | ~18 % | Operators who must see the alignment beam or fine work‑piece details |
Shade 5 | ~2 % | Maximum glare reduction and protection where the alignment beam is not essential |
Quick rule of thumb: If clearly seeing the preview beam is critical, start with Shade 3. If you can position the weld without it, or you need the darkest protection available, choose Shade 5.
How Shade 5 Affects Preview Lasers
Alignment lasers are usually <5 mW, often at 650 nm. Because Shade 5 filters attenuate visible light so aggressively, these low‑power beams may disappear entirely. Attempting to weld blind can lead to misalignment and scrap.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Shade 3 really protect me from the welding laser?
Yes. Both shades meet the OD values printed on the plate. Shade 5 simply transmits less visible light.
Q: Can I swap plates during a shift?
Yes—your helmet supports quick‑change filters. Inspect each plate for cracks before reuse. Ensure your laser is off when swapping plates.
Need Help Choosing?
Contact Laser Safety Industries at [email protected] or 952-405-6947. Our team can walk you through the trade‑offs and help you pick the right plate for your process.