Post: A Closer Look at Glass and Polycarbonate Welding Lenses

A Closer Look at Glass and Polycarbonate Welding Lenses

Alongside the traditional glass lenses, in recent years polycarbonate has emerged as an alternative material for welding lenses. However, there are distinct differences between these two materials. Both glass and polycarbonate are highly effective at providing protection during welding, and neither can be considered outdated or inferior to the other. Ultimately, the decision of which material to choose will depend on personal preference.

If you haven’t compared glass and polycarbonate welding lenses before, it’s worth noting some significant differences between them. Unlike glass, polycarbonate is typically not available in flat welding lens plates, so it’s not commonly used in welding helmets, masks, or goggles. However, polycarbonate is generally less expensive and less likely to break if dropped. On the other hand, glass is more scratch-resistant and offers superior optical quality. It’s important to consider these factors when choosing which material to use for welding lenses.

WELDING LENSES: GLASS OR POLYCARBONATE? HERE’S WHAT YOU SHOULD CONSIDER

If you’re trying to decide between glass and polycarbonate welding lenses, there are some important factors to consider. Glass welding lenses are available in a wider range of styles and helmets, as they come in flat welding plates, flat lenses, and curved lenses. They also offer a greater selection of shades compared to polycarbonate lenses. However, glass lenses can break easily if dropped, while polycarbonate lenses are highly impact-resistant and shatterproof.

On the other hand, polycarbonate welding lenses tend to scratch more easily than glass lenses, which can affect their longevity. Additionally, their optical quality is generally lower than that of glass lenses. No matter which material you choose, it’s important to choose welding glasses that fit your face perfectly to ensure proper protection.

One significant advantage of polycarbonate lenses is their affordability, as they are generally less expensive than glass lenses. Ultimately, the choice between glass and polycarbonate welding lenses will depend on your personal preferences and specific needs.

PERSONAL PREFERENCE IN WELDING LENS MATERIALS

When it comes to choosing welding safety eyewear, there are advantages and disadvantages to both glass and polycarbonate welding lens materials. Ultimately, your personal preference for specific lens traits should be the deciding factor in your choice of material.

However, it is worth noting that many individuals tend to stick with the welding lens material they are accustomed to, except when it comes to clip-on flip-ups, which are often made of polycarbonate. These clip-on lenses are frequently used to darken existing welding eyewear or to provide light protection during less intense procedures.

If you are having difficulty determining which welding lens material is most suitable for your needs, Phillips Safety is here to help. Simply reach out to us, and we will assist you in figuring out which material works best for your specific application.

If you still aren’t sure which welding lenses are right for you, it’s a good idea to give us a call at 1-866-575-1307 or talk to us through our chat or e-mail us at service@phillips-safety.com

Our welding experts will be able to tell you what you need for your application.

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