Heavy-duty protection from welding fumes and particulates

ESAB has launched its new Savage A40 Air helmet, designed to partner with ESAB’s existing Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR). Helmets such as the Savage A40 Air are essential for workers in situations where welding fumes and particulates are a concern, such as for some cored wires, working in confined or poorly ventilated spaces and for protecting operators from hexavalent chromium fumes, which are generated from stainless steel, chrome alloys and chrome-coated metals.

“When combined with ESAB’s PAPR, the Savage A40 Air offers exceptional performance and value,” says ESAB. The PAPR unit has three settings that adjust airflow between 170 and 220 l/min to suit the environment and application. It operates at a quiet 70 dB and features a high-capacity, lithium-ion rechargeable battery that offers up to eight hours of performance between charges.

“Savage A40 Air and ESAB PAPR blower unit combination has a replaceable two-stage filtration cartridge that meets European standards and removes airborne particles to a TH2-level filtration performance for fine particulates,” says Kevin Beckerdite, global product manager – PPE, ESAB. “The proven ESAB PAPR includes visual and audible alarms to signal low airflow, as an added safety measure.”

Bigger, better view

The high-tech Savage A40 Air helmet provides extreme comfort and protection in all processes, adds the company. With a design inspired by the Sentinel A50 helmet, Savage A40 Air offers a 50 x 100mm viewing area for a wider field of vision. The helmet weighs 700 g. Its 1/1/1/2 optical-class lens features ESAB’s ultra-clear true-colour technology for increased weld pool clarity and enhanced definition. Additional features include four light sensors, providing a high response, especially when welding out-of-position, and 9-13 shade knob. 

“ESAB’s ultra-clear true-colour lens technology gives operators a better view of the weld puddle and surrounding area,” says Beckerdite. “When precise bead placement counts, welders can rely on a brighter view with enhanced colour definition with the Savage A40 Air.”

Staying more productive

Like the Sentinel, welders can stay more productive with Savage’s externally activated Grind Button. Even while wearing a heavy glove, welders can activate a shade 4 Grind Mode on the left side of the helmet. Grind Mode may be suitable for cutting processes as well.

Sensitivity and delay controls inside the helmet allow users to adjust the response to various welding conditions. Sensitivity control is an adaptable feature useful when TIG welding at low amperage for better reaction. Delay control enables the welder to set how long the lens stays dark after the welding arc stops. Short delay helps get the job done faster during tack welding, while longer delay is useful for high amperage welding.