Materials for Welding
Cloth:
The best materials for welding clothing include the following:
Denim:
While not optimal for welding operations, denim is a thick, rugged material that will protect welders in operations that are low in volume and intensity.
Cotton:
Cotton welding clothing provides economical protection from flame, sparks, and molten splash. FR cotton has been chemically treated to withstand heat. dresses are breathable, lightweight alternatives to leather. Material remains flame resistant for up to 50 washings.
Leather:
Welding leather clothing is made from premium heavy side split cow leather. Chrome tanned to assure softness and durability while resisting heat, sparks, slag and cuts.
Rubber:
Rubber is not a material typical for welding jackets or caps but does find use in welding chaps, boots, and boot covers.
Synthetic Materials:
Synthetic materials are a problem because they will melt and cause severe burns on your skin. Cotton clothing will be damaged by sparks and slag, but cotton will just smolder.
Welding Jackets
Welding jackets are typically quite heavy and are made of leather. They offer a significant amount of protection, but they aren’t necessarily the best choice for welding in a warmer climate. Jackets extend from the neckline to the waistline, while also providing sleeves for the welder’s arms. Collars will help guard the worker’s neck area. Half-jackets either do not terminate protection at the abdomen or do not protect the welder’s back. These are frequently sized by chest thickness.
Advantages for Welding Cloth:
- Welding cloth is made from heavyweight; tightly woven, 100% wool or cotton to protect from UV radiation, hot metal, sparks, and open flames. Flame retardant treatments become less effective with repeated laundering.
- For wearing long-sleeved shirts with buttoned cuffs and a collar to protect the neck. Dark colors prevent light reflection.
- For wearing high-top boots fully laced to prevent sparks from entering into the boots.
- For wearing fire-resistant boot protectors or spats strapped around the pant legs and boot tops, it prevents sparks from bouncing in the top of the boots.
- For wearing gauntlet-type cuff leather gloves or protective sleeves of similar material, it protects wrists and forearms. Leather is a good electrical insulator if kept dry.
- For wearing leather aprons it protects one’s chest and lap from sparks when standing or sitting.
- For wearing layers of clothing. It prevents sweating, avoids overdressing in cold weather.
- For wearing a fire-resistant skull cap or balaclava hood under your helmet to protect your head from burns and UV radiation.
- For wearing a welder’s face shield to protect your face from UV radiation and flying particles.