Yes, all auto-darkening welding helmets require batteries to operate. However, there are other helmets that do not require batteries at all, such as the passive welding helmets that do not provide an auto-darkening feature.For more details
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The main purpose of the auto-darkening feature is to automatically darken the lens to protect the operator’s eyes from the dangerous UV light emitted during the welding process. It also obliterates the need to continuously pull up the helmet to check the weld.
Rather, the helmet automatically lightens and darkens the lens shade as the light level changes in front of the welder, as well as increasing safety. Now, this requires power, which is why all helmets with an auto-darkening feature operate on batteries.
However, the type of battery differs for different helmets. Some helmets are powered by internal non-replaceable batteries. This means that these batteries are a one-time investment and won’t require you to change them every now and then. These are often lithium batteries that are assisted by solar power. The combination of batteries with solar power helps prolong the helmet’s life.
Other helmets are powered by replaceable batteries. These batteries need to be changed from time to time once they get depleted. Generally, the approximate lifespan of most non-replaceable batteries in auto-darkening models is seven years.
Models with replaceable batteries are often preferred over those with non-replaceable batteries, as they increase the helmet’s overall lifetime.
Steps To Change Batteries In An Auto-darkening Welding Helmet
Changing batteries in a welding helmet is not as complicated as one thinks. If you know the steps well, it is just a bit of a process. Let us take a look at all the steps you need to follow to change the batteries single-handedly.
Inspecting the existing batteries
Before you actually start to change the batteries, it is important that you check if the batteries really need to be changed. This means, there can be other reasons why your helmet has stopped working. Hence, changing batteries would not always be the solution.
Therefore, you must carry out these three preliminary steps before changing the batteries:
- Some helmets have a light signal that alerts you when there is a need to change batteries. If the light is going off, it means that the batteries need to be changed.
- Test your helmet’s working by trying to adjust it to different intensities. If the helmet is not adjusting correctly, your batteries may need to change.
- Another method is to take the helmet outside and see if it darkens appropriately. If there is a difference between the inside and outside, the batteries need to be changed.
Gathering everything you need
When changing batteries, you may need a screwdriver, strong glue, soldering iron, four batteries, a Dremel tool, and cell holders. Make sure you gather all these before getting started.
Cutting off the plastic part
After exactly locating the batteries, you will need to cut out the plastic area around them, for you will find the batteries underneath it.
Taking out the current batteries
This step requires the most precision. What you need to do is to loosen the several tabs that hold the batteries in place. A screwdriver will help. Remove the batteries once you finish bending the prongs. Be mindful of not breaking the tongs and handling them with care.
Putting in the new batteries
Now, by connecting the right polarities to the corresponding end of the battery, you can replace the old batteries with new ones.
Doing it all again for the second battery
In most helmets, there is often another battery located somewhere near the first battery. However, it is not always necessary. You can figure it out by reading the manual or y checking the helmet yourself. If found, repeat the above steps to change the second battery as well.
Putting the helmet back together and testing it
Using an adhesive of your choice, such as epoxy or superglue, fix the helmet back together. Finally, test the helmet by using it or taking it out in the sun to see if it darkens properly.
