- G5-01 welding filter features 3M Natural Colour technology
- Speedglas welding filter G5-01 offers variable dark shades 5, 8-13
- The big (104 x 170 mm), clear protective visor is curved
- Innovative G5-01 helmet airflow optimization system
- Crystal lens technology with shade 2. 0 light state
- Detection of the arc brightness and fully automated shade level
- Gradually lightens lens When switching from dark to light state
- Switch quickly and easily between weld mode and shade 2. 0
- Powered Air Purifying Respirator (PAPR) Kit
- Big and wide viewing area 3.94×2.56 in (100×65 mm)
- High Efficiency particulate respiratory protection system for welders
- Master Filter Type: P3 TH3P R SL for TH3P system
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Welders often suffer respiratory problems due to the air’s harmful and dangerous welding gasses, resulting in various illnesses. Systems such as PAPRs (Powered Air Purifying Respirators) are designed to address this problem.
You can’t protect yourself from welding fumes with a traditional helmet. Air Fed welding helmets are equipped with motorized air purification systems to ensure safe breathing. Such systems have many components that require great care.
You must consider several factors and features, from build quality to the price range covered in this guide, when choosing the fitting PAPR welding helmet. Our comprehensive guide to the best Air Fed welding helmets with built-in respirators.
Best PAPR Welding Helmets Reviews
Our review of the best Air Fed welding helmet with a built-in respirator wouldn’t be complete without including 3M’s product at the top. A decade has passed since the company started producing high-quality welding helmets. The legendary 9100 series, which originally came out almost 12 years ago, was quite famous for quite some time.
Since then, 3M has been working tirelessly and has created some products that are worthy of mention. The Speedglas G5-01 is a strong and durable welding helmet to protect yourself from toxic welding fumes. It has everything you need to guarantee a safe and comfortable welding experience.
Why We Selected It in Our Top List ?
Adflo Respirator System
In addition to the Speedglas G5-01, it comes with an Adflo PAPR respirator, which means that it is one of the best respiratory systems out there. You can customize your gear to suit your needs with this respirator, as it comes with stackable filters.
The easiest way to remove harmful particles is by using fresh air filtration. You can stack several filters to protect yourself against vapor and welding fumes.
Efficient Airflow and Wide Viewport
You can customize the helmet to meet your specific needs. It has cutting-edge airflow optimizing technology. If you follow this method, you can improve airflow on your visor, face, and all other parts of your face that are engaged.
For a more comprehensive view of your surroundings, the helmet includes an angled viewport for a wide field of view.
Tack Welding Mode and Adflow PAPR
Among the features of this welding helmet are the ability to adjust the shade level and the reaction time of the tack welding mode. Adflow PAPR can reroute airflow over a wide area for improved comfort throughout the day. Additionally, the fan is equipped with automatic on/off technology for high efficiency.
- Bluetooth connectivity and auto-shutdown
- High-efficiency filtration system
- Shades that can be customized and heat-resistant
- A leather neck and headcover
- The price is a bit high
- Reflections have been reported as unwanted by users
With this Air Fed welding helmet, you can create a high-end professional welding kit for hazardous environments with the PAPR system e3000x and Optrel’s Sphere Series Crystal 2.0.
These are pretty popular in the aircraft industry due to the small size that allows them to fit in small spaces.
Why We Selected It in Our Top List?
Comfortable and Offers Maximum Protection
Regarding the comfort factor, we can state that you will be able to wear it all day without feeling any discomfort. The cooling system has a highly efficient airflow system that makes it extremely light and compact at the same time.
Additionally, the PAPR system has a safety grade of TH3, meaning it is incredibly safe. You’ll avoid harmful fumes in the air and even viruses. You’ll even avoid COVID-19 with this virus protection.
Auto-dark Feature and Built-in Grind Mode
The Optrel Crystal 2.0 features one of the unique features we enjoyed! Sensing the working environment can tell you how much shade to use for optimal protection. The 2.0 Lightshade provides maximum safety along with the best clarity and color.
Another outstanding feature is the grind mode, which is highly useful when welding. It is no longer necessary to remove the helmet while grinding; switch the grind settings while doing it.
18-Hour Support and Heat Resistance
You will have access to 18 hours of uninterrupted work by using the two Lithium-ion batteries that it comes with. Aside from the solar cells that work as an added benefit, it also comes with a rechargeable battery. High heat resistance enables you to resist temperatures up to 220 degrees C.
- Compact and extremely light
- Four to twelve shade levels and a comfortable headband
- Maximum eye protection and twilight functionality
- Sensors that can be customized and IsoFit headgear
- Grinder buttons tend to get damaged
Without taking a closer look at the features provided by Miller Electric‘s T94i-R welding helmet, our journey to find the best PAPR welding helmet wouldn’t be complete. Welding helmets with PAPR respirators produced by the company are renowned for their quality.
Why We Selected It in Our Top List?
Futuristic Design and Flip-up Faceplate
T94i-R comes with a design that includes the InfoTrack 2.0 statistics system. Time can be recorded reliably with T94i-R. A flip-up faceplate is included in this futuristic welding helmet. The device is designed for use in industrial settings where maximum protection and comfort are needed.
Wide Viewport and Grind Shield
Miller Electric made every effort to meet the industry standard with this extraordinary device. The device has a 9 square inch display. This allows users to perform any welding task. In addition, the device has a 180-degree rotating grind shield. It has four different types of arc sensors, making it highly efficient.
99.97% Purification and Innovative Blowing Unit
A HEPA filter is included in the welding helmet, filtering out metal fumes, mist, and dust. To increase the efficiency of the HEPA filter, a prefilter is installed. The whole filtration system purifies 99.97% of the water.
Regardless of the welding environment, there is enough airflow provided by the blowing unit. Depending on the working environment, you can change the airflow. Furthermore, you will be alerted by a vibrating alarm in noisy environments. There’s nothing better than that!
- Quick-release belt design for comfort
- Airflow that can be adjusted with debris protection
- The grinder comes with a spark guard and grinding shield
- HEPA-filtered headgear that is durable and comfortable
- It’s a bit difficult to adjust the hard hat adapter
These Black Viking welding helmets from Lincoln are solid and sturdy like the Vikings. This system provides an eight-hour continuous supply of filtered, breathable air. It helps clean ambient shop air and delivers it continuously for up to eight hours.
Why We Selected It in Our Top List?
Clear Vision and 4C technology
Despite its small size, the viewing surface of Viking 3350 is quite large, measuring 3.74 inches by 3.34 inches. When you are welding through your helmet, you should see as much as possible. You do not need only a wide viewport to be able to see. You should be able to see clearly.
In addition to its 4C technology, the Viking 3350 offers a crystal-clear lens.
High-powered Battery and 1/25,000 Switching Speed
Its solar-powered CR-2450 battery can provide 8 hours of uninterrupted service. The battery can be easily replaced and is inexpensive. The ADF circuit, which enhances performance, ensures maximum output.
There is a 1/25,000 switching speed in the Lincoln Viking 3350, preventing eye fatigue. The helmet has a slow switching feature for long working periods without straining your eyes.
HEPA Filter and Natural Color
Featuring an industry-grade PAPR system and HEPA filter to ensure maximum protection, the Viking 3350 comes with an industry-grade K930-1 PAPR system. The machine can remove 99% of toxic fumes and particles from the air, and it can even take out debris down to 0.3 microns in size.
A Natural Color system and a 1/1/1/1 grade of optical clarity will provide you with clear Vision and accurate colors.
- Multiple points of adjustable airflow
- 12.5 sq. true-color viewport
- Headgear with LED display and durable construction
- Approximately 8-9 hours of continuous use with adjustable speed
- It weighs a bit more than other welding helmets
Professional welders working in challenging environments will benefit greatly from wearing this TywelMaster welding helmet. This device has the best optical clarity and the widest viewing angle. Therefore, welding helmets are the perfect tool for heavy industrial use.
Why We Selected It in Our Top List?
Compact Design and Broad Viewport Range
The helmet’s compact, lightweight design makes it highly comfortable to wear for extended periods. With this helmet, your eyes won’t strain, and your neck won’t ache like with heavy welding helmets.
You can choose a preferred optical system according to your working environment since there are nine to thirteen levels of shades. Additionally, the auto-darkening feature automatically adjusts the viewport according to the environment.
Portable PAPR and Additional Lens
A PAPR system attached to the helmet can be removed and used in any other helmet you choose. You can install it in another helmet by simply removing the screws. It comes with an additional lens that provides better protection. This welding helmet offers the lowest level of light transmission.
Overhead Protection and Increased Filtration Function
This helmet provides maximum overhead protection due to its sturdy and durable construction. The product is lightweight without compromising durability. It can be used for medium to heavy welding operations.
Contaminants such as solid particles and toxic fumes are effectively filtered out with HEPA and additional filters. You can work in peace without worrying about harmful debris on your workstation for as long as you need to.
- Carbon filters made from activated carbon
- Overhead protection and removable PAPR system
- Battery life is increased, and the adapter is universal
- Suitable for heavy industrial applications
- A more efficient airflow system would be beneficial
ArcOne SR500 Respirator PAPR Kit with Hard Hat Grinding Visor and Welding Face Shield – 5500V Filter
An Air Fed welding helmet with a built-in respirator should comply with ANSI Z87. You can get all of this and many other features from the SR500 from ArcOne. Furthermore, the PAPR system has been approved by OSHA, which ensures maximum filtration. There is no better welding helmet on the market today in terms of performance!
Why We Selected It in Our Top List?
Increased Filtration and Durable Build Quality
SR500s from ArcOne feature a digital filter of 5500V, which offers maximum protection from harmful gases and solid debris in the air. This new technology will save the welder’s lungs and increase productivity simultaneously.
The welding helmet is highly durable since the company invested in its lifespan and functionality under adverse conditions. The helmet comes in a price range that makes it one of the most compact and lightweight you can find. It also has a robust build quality for the price range.
Hard Hat and Useful User Manual
Saving your head and face is of paramount importance to the SR500. When you grind with the helmet, you will be protected by the hard hat. It meets all of the recommended safety standards.
You can learn how to adjust the helmet and operate the additional features from the user manual. It took ArcOne a long time to prepare this manual, but you can understand what it says after reading it.
Digital Filter and Efficient Respirator
This helmet features a digital filter that increases your viewing area, which is not found on many welding helmets. Using the flip-down visor when working with something that requires close attention will also prove to be a great asset.
The helmet is equipped with a high-quality respirator that filters the air continuously. It prevents you from inhaling anything generated by the surrounding environment.
- Designed to fit loosely and be comfortable
- A flip-down welding and grinding visor
- Enhanced filtration system with adjustable sensors
- Optimal clarity with a widened viewport
- It’s a bit pricey
Jackson is a trusted and popular brand that consistently outperforms its competitors by including incredible features and benefits in its products. A welding helmet such as the 40839 produced by Jackson Safety is a testament to their commitment and research.
Why We Selected It in Our Top List?
Rounded Design and Auto-darkening Feature
The helmet’s rounded design was one of the best features we found while using it. Having the ability to deflect many impacts, you can use it anywhere. Due to the outward curvature, you can tilt your head down to expand your Vision.
An added benefit of the auto-darkening feature is that your eyes will not get strained. The viewing shade will automatically dim or brighten depending on the surrounding light.
Smart Power Management and BH3 Respirator
The Jackson Safety 40839 uses a lithium-ion battery that is rechargeable and can last for more than 8 hours without recharging. The helmet has an indicator that displays how much charge is left while working. Using the intelligent power management system, you can prevent your battery from overcharging.
There is no better filtration system than the BH3 respirator when filtering out any harmful fumes or solid particles. The welding tasks for eight long hours will keep you safe from any debris that may come into contact with you.
Versatile Applications and Powerful Blower
This helmet features a large viewing area and numerous other features that make it suitable for a wide variety of tasks. The machine is ideal for grinding, cutting, and edging, as well as other welding operations, depending on your requirements.
It also comes with a powerful blower which is the Airmax Elite PAPR. This blower is capable of reducing the temperature. Using it will stay relaxed and comfortable for as long as you work.
- Both professionals and beginners will find it useful
- Auto-darkening feature for maximum optical clarity
- Battery support for 8 hours with overcharging protection
- Wider viewport and Airmax Elite BH3 PAPR system
- There were complaints of sudden glares from users
If you want something sturdy and durable, you can use the 9935 from Allegro as both a shield and a welding helmet. In addition, due to its robust build quality, it can withstand a large amount of pressure.
Why We Selected It in Our Top List?
High Airflow and HEPA Filter
You will stay safe in any welding environment with the increased airflow provided by the helmet. As you work in high-temperature welding stations, you’ll be comfortable and relaxed.
This system comes with a HEPA filter, ensuring maximum protection from harmful gases and dust generated from welding tasks. The HEPA filter is NIOSH-certified, providing its high level of performance.
Auto-darkening Feature and Sturdy Nylon Shell
In addition to the widened viewport, the welding helmet has an automatic dimming feature for maximum visibility. The helmet adjusts the viewing area based on the surroundings. Any grinding task can be made more accessible with this flip-up grinding shield and cover.
Despite being lightweight, nylon is a sturdy outer shell. Despite the comfortable build structure, it won’t cause you any discomfort during long periods of use. The helmet also has a lower gauntlet and a drawstring that covers any exposed neck areas as an additional comfort feature.
99.97% Filtration and High-powered Blower
Despite the helmet having only one filter, the filtration system is not compromised. You will not inhale harmful particles from the air since the air is 99.97% purified.
As a bonus, a powerful blower equipped with eight different fan settings is also included in the package. Depending on your needs, you can either reduce or increase the fan’s speed.
- Anti-fog and auto-darkening features
- Compact design with nylon outer shell that is lightweight and compact
- Blower with adjustable fan settings made of ABS
- A HEPA filter that NIOSH has approved
- I feel a little heavy around the neck
Considering the Adflo Powered helmet as the best PAPR welding helmet, you won’t have to compromise on safety. The exterior of the machine and the interior are constructed from industrial-grade materials, which makes them quite durable.
Why We Selected It in Our Top List?
Comfortable Design and Versatile Use
The helmet can be worn comfortably for an extended period without causing discomfort with its ergonomic design. The suspension of the head can be adjusted just the way you need it, and it will be perfect for you.
The versatility of this helmet is another excellent feature. The welding helmet can be used for various welding tasks, including grinding and edging. The helmet comes with a ground shield, allowing you to continue working without removing it.
ANSI-approved Shield and NIOSH-approved Respirator
By complying with all the required safety standards, the face shield is ANSI-approved. You will work comfortably and efficiently for as long as possible with a larger viewport and Clear Vision.
These helmets have NIOSH-approved respiratory systems that filter all kinds of solid particles and toxic gases. In addition to the built-in respirator, this helmet also comes with a HEPA filter that prevents any fumes from entering your lungs and helps keep the air in the helmet clean for breathing.
Flip-up Visor and ABS Blower
Compared to other lightweight helmets produced by 3M, the helmet may seem bulky. You should also keep in mind that it has a double-hood, making it safer. Additionally, the visor can be flipped up, making it easier to use.
As a result of ABS technology, the blower is lightweight yet generates enough airflow to keep the interior cool and comfortable. The fan’s speed can be adjusted as needed, and you can keep working for up to eight uninterrupted hours.
- Double-hooded viewport with widened aperture
- A sturdy face shield and ergonomic design
- Integrated respirator with additional HEPA filters
- Suspension adjustability and versatility
- It feels a bit heavy and bulky
The Optrel E3000X PAPR system is yet another superb creation. The system combines optimal safety features with an efficient respirator. The helmet comes with a TH3 filter and a face seal for optimum performance.
Why We Selected It in Our Top List?
Plug-and-Play Feature and Optimum Clarity
Unlike many other welding helmets, the Optrel E3000X will not take much time to set up. All you have to do is unpack the device, plug it in, and it will work. It is one of the easiest helmets to use.
Aside from its plug-and-play function, this welding helmet offers maximum clarity due to its face seal. With a wide viewport, you will see everything clearly so that welding won’t be a hassle.
Auto-darkening Feature and TH3 HEPA Filter
The Optrel E3000X welding helmet also comes with an auto-darkening feature, similar to the best welding helmets on the market. Automatically adjusts the shade based on the surrounding environment. By doing this, you will work comfortably for an extended period without experiencing eye fatigue.
This Humidifier comes with a HEPA filter capable of not only filtering out any debris in the air but is TH3 rated. In other words, the filter is more efficient than available filtration systems in other welding helmets.
Adjustable Airflow and Increased Battery-life
The Clearmaxx Technology it is equipped with allows you to adjust the airflow. This helmet comes with a rotary switch, a great feature not found in many other helmets. 20% of the air can be directed to your forehead area while working using the rotary switch. By doing this, you will not sweat and feel relaxed and breezy.
With a full charge, welding helmets can run for 8 hours. However, the Optrel E3000X offers more! Its smart-powered battery can run continuously for more than 10 hours. That’s everything you’ve ever wanted in a welding helmet.
- Auto-darkening feature with evident face seal
- Filtration system rated TH3 with Clearmaxx technology
- Durable headgear and plug-and-play capability
- FadeTronic and ShadeTronic technology that is highly efficient
- It is easy to damage the grind button
How did we test the Welding helmets?
At WeldingZilla, the health and well-being of our audience is always our number one concern, and we take every precaution to keep them safe. For this reason, we take a great deal of attention in selecting welding helmets that are of the highest possible quality for our customers.
In order to determine which product is the most effective welder’s helmet, the WeldingZilla research and development staff carried out a battery of exhaustive lab tests. We compiled a list of the best-rated manufacturers of welding helmets and chose several different kinds of helmets from each of those brands.
After that, our team devised a battery of tests in order to assess the overall performance of each helmet. When we examined helmets, we looked at a variety of aspects, including how well they protected the wearer, how well they fit, how comfortable they were to wear, and how long they lasted.
In addition to this, we took into consideration any other features or technology that were given by each helmet.
Throughout the course of our evaluations, we took copious notes on the functionality of each helmet, which we later compared to one another to determine which models emerged as the most promising contenders.
We spent several weeks conducting tests and doing analyses before we were ultimately able to reduce the list down to the best performers. After that, we gave our findings to you along with our suggestions for the best welding helmet that would be suitable for your particular preferences as well as your prerequisites.
Due to the extensive testing and evaluation process that we went through, we were ultimately successful in locating the best welding helmet for your needs.
For all of your welding requirements, we are certain that the helmet we have selected will give you the highest possible level of protection while also meeting all of your expectations for comfort.
How to Choose the Best PAPR Welding Helmet?
When choosing the best welding helmet with a built-in respirator from Air Fed, several factors need to be considered.
If you are in the market for a reliable device that will fit your needs, provide enough energy, be durable and long-lasting, and have a powerful filtration system, then your best option will be one of these devices.
Let’s look at the factors to consider when choosing the best welding helmet.
Welding Type
You should pick a welding helmet whose features are compatible with the welding tasks you intend to accomplish. You can then compare your helmet to the protection level you require.
For example, it may be necessary to add additional sensors for TIG welding. A color viewpoint may be needed, as well as a customized amperage. Helmets that comply with ANSI Z87 are necessary for MIG welding. You must decide all of these things before purchasing your helmet.
Build Quality
If you are looking for a welding helmet with a built-in respirator, you must consider its durability and reliability. By investing in a durable device, you can avoid the hassle of replacing or repairing the machine every month.
In addition, less durable helmets can’t withstand much pressure. As a result, it might not work in several crucial ways without your knowledge. Therefore, even though you’re wearing a helmet, you may still be inhaling harmful fumes.
Because of these factors, you should invest in a PAPR welding helmet that is reliable and has a long-lasting respiratory system.
Filtration Ability
The welding helmet should also provide you with a certain level of protection. In environments without ventilation, you need a welding helmet that is highly powered and has an integrated respirator.
Additional filters can be installed to handle fumes, inert gases, and strong odors. You can be confident that a welding helmet with an integrated respirator will clear out dangerous gases and filter the air better.
ANSI– and OSHA-approved welding headgear will be the best. While you might be tempted by a welding helmet’s aesthetic design and stylish features, remember that a welding helmet is designed solely to provide you with protection from toxic gases.
It is possible to find helmets with cool designs or paint the outer layer yourself. Nevertheless, you should ensure that it can filter the fumes you are exposed to. Hence, it would help if you always opted for welding masks with the best filtration system.
Size and Comfort
There are various sizes of welding helmets. Choose from large, medium, or small the one that fits you. You should also ensure that the fit can be customized to suit your needs.
A welding helmet with a built-in respirator that’s highest in quality and comfort is just as important as one that’s highest in safety.
- Wearing an uncomfortable helmet will result in an unpleasant working experience.
- These respirators may cause discomfort if you wear them for an extended period. With a heavy workload, moving and breathing easily becomes more crucial.
- You should choose a welding helmet with an easily adjustable setup to ensure a seamless welding experience.
- Don’t buy a helmet until you’ve tried it out. If you’ve ever used a motorcycle helmet before, you know that their comfort is dependent on choosing the correct size.
- Helmets for welders are no different in that they are not universal.
You might be at risk for health problems if you work in an unpleasant environment. Further, if you are currently in a stressful situation, you will not perform well. As such, if you genuinely desire comfort throughout your working session, you must choose an appropriate size and fit for your PAPR welding helmet.
Airflow and Energy Efficiency
The flow of air is a crucial aspect that should never be ignored. Welders working in a fume-filled environment or a cloudy climate need to breathe clean air. But without proper protection, it becomes nearly impossible. Therefore, you should always opt for a device that provides adequate ventilation.
Before purchasing a helmet, make sure you read the product description and features carefully. It must offer adequate airflow to provide you with a safe working environment.
You should also get an energy-efficient welding helmet as a bonus. With its battery-operated design, the helmet should last at least a few hours, which would be enough to complete a welding session.
An intelligent power management system is included in modern helmets. These helmets also offer other features such as sound alerts when the filter needs to be changed.
Best PAPR Welding Helmet – Frequently Asked Questions
What are PAPR filters?
The Powered Air Purifying Respirator is also known as PAPR. They are made following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. Filters such as the PAPR purify the air by removing toxic fumes and making it safe to breathe. Welders can breathe clean air while protecting their eyes and faces with these under their helmets.
How long might a PAPR filter last?
You will still have the filter for around six months if you have opened it at least once. If it is sealed, the filter will last for more than five years.
What are ANSI and OSHA?
The American National Standards Institute sets standards for product safety. Users can rely on a product’s security if it meets its standards.
As part of OSHA, which sets rules for safe working conditions, employers must ensure their workers are safe.
Inspections are performed at workplaces to determine what safety measures should be taken. OSHA approves devices used by workers to ensure that they are standard and secure to use.
Is it dangerous to inhale welding fumes? What gases are produced when welding?
It is possible for welding to produce toxic gases, like carbon dioxide, acetylene, butane, carbon monoxide, propane, etc.
It is hazardous to inhale welding fumes. In addition to causing discomfort, smoking has a detrimental effect on your lungs and may even result in lung cancer.
Should I use cheap welding helmets available in the market?
Welding helmets are pretty expensive. Good welding helmets can’t be bought for a low price because the components are costly. For example, a PAPR filter might cost over a hundred dollars. There’s no denying that cheap welding helmets do not provide enough protection against toxic welding fumes.
Can I wear my glasses under the welding helmet?
Under welding helmets, safety goggles are always recommended. While helmets offer maximum protection, they cannot provide enough protection. You can wear prescription glasses instead of safety goggles if you need them.
What shade should I choose in my helmet for welding?
You should be able to survive sudden flashes at any level between 10 and 13. If you don’t wear safety goggles and your shade isn’t dark enough, these flashes can even burn your eyes. A darker shade makes the beats darker.
How do I know that my helmet’s lenses are safe for welding?
Wear your helmet and stand directly under the sun to test whether it’s working or not. Check the viewport to see if it starts getting darker as the sun rises. If it does, then you’re safe to weld.
Final Verdict
It’s important to compare all the features discussed in the buying guide with the features your preferred welding helmet offers to choose the best PAPR welding helmet. If you plan on working with heavy machinery, you should select a suitable helmet for the type of work you will be doing.
The Optrel Crystal 2.0 is what you need if you are looking for something to accommodate metal welding or aerospace welding. Webmaster 9B-PAPR welding helmet is a quality welding helmet suitable for automotive welding.
Those on a budget can opt for the Allegro 9935, which provides all the features for a reasonable price. In addition to that, if you want to purchase a welding helmet with an aesthetic design, you should choose the Weltek Air Fed welding helmet.
Nonetheless, if you genuinely want the best welding helmet with a built-in respirator, we recommend getting the 3M Speedglas G5-01 since it comes with everything you want from an Air Fed welding helmet.
It’s all about your requirements and the environment you work in. Make an informed choice to ensure your safety.
Enjoy welding!